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Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anson McCade

Junior Quantitative Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

Their team spans trading, engineering, and business operations, working together to build and ... algorithmic trading models from ideation through production deployment • Analyze market ...

Anson McCade

Index Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

Their team spans trading, engineering, and business operations, working together to build and ... algorithmic trading models from ideation through production deployment • Analyze market ...

Eagle Seven

Junior Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

Executing algorithmic trading strategies in accordance with the trading desk's objectives ... Bachelor's degree in business/finance, statistics, mathematics, engineering, or related field * 0-2 ...

Eagle Seven

Junior Trader

Chicago, IL

Executing algorithmic trading strategies in accordance with the trading desk's objectives ... Bachelor's degree in business/finance, statistics, mathematics, engineering, or related field * 0-2 ...

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Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer information

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$40.5K

$80.7K

$112K

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

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance algorithmic trading programmer in the United States is $80,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $92,500.00 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.
More about Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer job openings:
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Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,664 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Junior Quantitative Trader

Anson McCade

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

$175,000 USD
Discretionary Bonus
Onsite WORKING
Location: Chicago, Illinois - United States Type: Permanent
Our client is a proprietary trading firm specializing in electronic options market making. They take a technology-driven approach, designing and operating automated, scalable systems to provide liquidity across markets.
Their team spans trading, engineering, and business operations, working together to build and support the systems that power the firm. They emphasize data-driven decision making, rigorous problem solving, and continuous improvement to navigate complex and evolving markets.
They operate in a highly collaborative environment where ideas can move quickly from concept to implementation, and where individuals are empowered to take ownership and contribute directly to the firm's growth.
What you'll do:
• Design and optimize systematic options trading strategies using quantitative research and machine learning techniques
• Build and refine algorithmic trading models from ideation through production deployment
• Analyze market microstructure and execution quality to generate alpha signals and improve strategy performance
• Collaborate with quant researchers and engineers to develop new models using our proprietary datasets
• Manage real-time risk across a diversified portfolio of options positions
Qualifications and skills:
• Previous experience trading (1-2 years) with a proven track record of success managing an options market making book and maintaining/improving automated trading systems
• BA/BS/MS/PhD degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Math, Economics, Finance, Physics, or related field
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Excellent quantitative and analytical skills
• Ability to take on many responsibilities quickly with a high degree of operational excellence
• Strong python programming skills

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