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Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Squirl Financial

Software Engineer

Detroit, MI

... develop algorithmic trading strategies that outperformed the S&P 500. Overtime, as our shared ... We are looking for a part-time Software Engineer who will assist us with the design, development ...

Squirl Financial Inc

Software Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

... develop algorithmic trading strategies that outperformed the S&P 500. Overtime, as our shared ... We are looking for a part-time Software Engineer who will assist us with the design, development ...

Gates

Embedded Firmware Engineer

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$112K - $130K/yr

Implement and optimize algorithms for control, signal processing, and system diagnostics. * Develop ... Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate ...

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All JobsAlgorithmic Trading Programmer JobsFreelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer JobsFreelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$40.1K

$79.9K

$110.9K

How much do freelance algorithmic trading programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance algorithmic trading programmer in Detroit, MI is $79,854.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,300.00 and $91,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges freelance algorithmic trading programmers face when working with clients?

Freelance algorithmic trading programmers often encounter challenges such as aligning with clients' diverse strategies, accommodating rapid changes in trading requirements, and ensuring robust backtesting for different market conditions. Effective communication is key, as clients may have varying levels of technical understanding and expectations regarding performance and risk management. Additionally, freelancers must stay updated on compliance standards and platform-specific APIs, which can differ significantly between projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer, you need strong programming skills (often in Python, C++, or Java), a solid understanding of financial markets, and experience with quantitative analysis. Familiarity with trading platforms (like MetaTrader, NinjaTrader, or Interactive Brokers API), backtesting frameworks, and relevant certifications such as CFA or CQF can be highly valuable. Outstanding problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for building reliable, profitable trading algorithms and translating complex financial requirements into robust, real-world solutions.

What is the difference between Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer vs Quantitative Analyst?

AspectFreelance Algorithmic Trading ProgrammerQuantitative Analyst
CredentialsProgramming skills, trading platform knowledge, sometimes certifications like CQFAdvanced degrees in finance, mathematics, or statistics, certifications like CFA or FRM
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, project-basedIn-house or consulting, often office-based
Industry UsageDevelops trading algorithms for clients or personal tradingAnalyzes financial data to inform trading strategies and risk management

While both roles involve quantitative skills and financial markets, Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmers focus on coding and developing trading algorithms independently, whereas Quantitative Analysts analyze data to support trading decisions within organizations.

What is a Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer?

A Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer is a professional who designs, develops, and implements trading algorithms for financial markets on a contract or project basis. They use programming languages like Python, C++, or Java to create automated systems that can execute trades based on predefined strategies without human intervention. These programmers often collaborate with traders, investment firms, or hedge funds to build, backtest, and optimize trading algorithms that aim to maximize profits and minimize risks. Working independently, they may also advise clients on best practices, maintain trading infrastructure, and ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations.
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Detroit, MI? For Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer job openings:
Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer job openings in Detroit, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,854 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Software Engineer

Squirl Financial

Detroit, MI

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

WHILE THERE IS NO MONETARY COMPENSATION CURRENTLY, THIS POSITION WILL BE COMPENSATED WITH 1-3% EQUITY IN THE COMPANY ALONG WITH A COMPETITIVE SALARY IN THE FUTURE ONCE WE HAVE RAISED A SEED ROUND.

About Squirl:

Founded in early January 2020 by a team of three college sophomores, who had a passion for financial markets and technology, the early roots of Squirl started out as an extracurricular project to develop algorithmic trading strategies that outperformed the S&P 500. Overtime, as our shared experience and connections grew, we eventually transitioned into becoming an advanced quantitative trading firm with deep partnerships to asset management firms globally.

Over the past year, we have been working with BCM Partners to launch our first in-house systematic trading algorithm: a LONG-SHORT global macro strategy that executes on directional trading opportunities in the FX market. We are also testing additional strategies in the equities market that demonstrate significant alpha in backtests.

Throughout our journey, we have gained a more proficient understanding on how to best capitalize on the changing dynamics of financial markets, and our hands-on experiences have allowed our portfolios to excel in even the most volatile of times.

About the position:

We are looking for a part-time Software Engineer who will assist us with the design, development and installation of various software solutions. Your duties will include development, writing code, and documenting functionality.

You should be able to build high-quality, innovative and fully performing software in compliance with coding standards and technical design.

Position responsibilities include:

  • Organize full lifecycle software development

  • Prepare specifications and determine operational feasibility

  • Write well designed, testable, efficient code

  • Prepare software verification plans and quality assurance procedures

  • Organize documenting and maintenance of software functionality

  • Integrate software components into a fully functional software system

  • Evaluate and deploy software tools, processes and metrics

  • Provide support and consulting on software systems usage

  • Ensure compliance with project plans and industry standards

Position requirements:

  • 2+ years' experience of working in a Computer Software Engineer or Software Developer position

  • Significant experience with following test-driven development to create software in Python using core language features and the SciPy stack (pandas, numpy, sci-kit learn, etc.)

  • Excellent knowledge of REST APIs, timeseries databases, and UNIX system administration

  • Demonstrated experience in documenting requirements and specifications

  • Close familiarity with software engineering tools, software development methodology and release processes

  • BS degree in Computer Science or Engineering


Perks of joining our team:

  • Flexibility to work whenever you want (apart from weekly team check-ins)
  • Exposure to working with a team that will be following the agile development methodology to rapidly iterate and grow
  • Ability to contribute to the design and development of a product that could be used by thousands of people
  • Joining an up-and-coming startup with plans to disrupt the financial services sector
  • Being surrounded by a team with over 15+ years of combined development experience and 30+ years of trading experience
  • Mentorship to grow as a software engineer and as a stock/option trader
  • Potential to grow within our company through further projects
Employment Type: PART_TIME

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