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Full Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Wolverine

Software Engineer - Trading Systems

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Technology Employment Type: Full Time Location: Chicago, IL Description Grow your C++ expertise ... As a Software Engineer at Wolverine, you'll contribute to the design and development of high ...

CME Group

Staff Agentic Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $209K/yr

Experience developing software for financial risk management, high-frequency trading, or clearing systems. * Experience building internal developer tools, CLI extensions, or custom LLM evaluation ...

CME Group

Staff Agentic Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $209K/yr

Experience developing software for financial risk management, high-frequency trading, or clearing systems. * Experience building internal developer tools, CLI extensions, or custom LLM evaluation ...

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All JobsHigh Frequency Trading Software Engineer JobsFull Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer JobsFull Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Full Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$65.4K

$152K

$211.7K

How much do full time high frequency trading software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time high frequency trading software engineer in Chicago, IL is $151,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,600.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a full time high frequency trading software engineer do?

A Full Time High Frequency Trading (HFT) Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains the ultra-low latency software systems that power automated trading strategies in financial markets. Their primary responsibilities include optimizing code for speed, ensuring system reliability, and working closely with quantitative analysts and traders to implement new algorithms. They often work with languages like C++ or Java and use specialized networking techniques to minimize delays. The goal is to enable trading firms to execute large volumes of trades at the fastest possible speeds, often competing with other firms in microseconds. This role requires a deep understanding of computer science, networking, and financial markets.

What are some typical challenges full time high frequency trading software engineers face when optimizing trading systems?

Full Time High Frequency Trading (HFT) Software Engineers often encounter challenges related to minimizing latency and maximizing system throughput. They must continuously fine-tune algorithms and network infrastructure to achieve ultra-low latency, while ensuring system stability and reliability under extreme loads. Additionally, staying ahead of rapid technological advancements and adapting to evolving regulatory requirements are ongoing aspects of the role. Collaboration with traders, quants, and infrastructure teams is crucial to align technical solutions with trading strategies and business objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time high frequency trading software engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Full Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer, you need advanced programming skills (especially in C++ or Java), a strong background in algorithms, and a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals, often paired with a degree in a related field. Familiarity with low-latency systems, network protocols, and experience using specialized trading platforms and performance profiling tools are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, adaptability, and the ability to collaborate under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for building and maintaining ultra-fast, reliable trading systems that compete effectively in financial markets.

What is the difference between Full Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer vs Quantitative Trading Software Engineer?

AspectFull Time High Frequency Trading Software EngineerQuantitative Trading Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; programming skills in C++, Python; knowledge of trading systemsSimilar credentials; strong math background, programming skills, and experience with trading algorithms
Work EnvironmentFast-paced trading firms, financial institutions, high-performance computing environmentsQuant firms, hedge funds, financial institutions, research-focused settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in high-frequency trading firms, investment banks, proprietary trading desksCommon in quantitative hedge funds, asset managers, and trading firms

While both roles require strong programming skills and financial knowledge, the Full Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer focuses on developing ultra-low latency trading systems for high-speed markets, whereas the Quantitative Trading Software Engineer emphasizes designing and implementing trading algorithms based on quantitative research. Both roles are integral to trading firms but differ in their primary focus and technical approach.

What are the most commonly searched types of High Frequency Trading Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of High Frequency Trading Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Full Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time High Frequency Trading Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,971 per year, or $73.1 per hour.

Experienced Trader, High Frequency Trading

Next Step Systems

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 hours ago

Job description

Experienced Trader, High Frequency Trading, Chicago, IL
We are seeking an Experienced Trader. The Trader will be charged with developing new strategies utilizing proprietary software and customizing current strategies. Unlike a lot of other firms, traders work closely with dedicated technology team in developing and enhancing existing strategies. This position will be located in the Chicago office. Candidates must have HFT (High Frequency Trading) experience.
Qualifications:
- Must have 5+ years of High Frequency Trading (HFT) experience.
- 5+ years working experience of high volume trading.
- Has demonstrated the ability to use sound judgment while trading.
- Proven ability to develop new, profitable trading strategies.
- Preference to those with the ability to do light programming work using multi-dimensional arrays, nested loops, complex conditionals and simple file I/O.
- Preference to those who are fluent in Excel Programming with experience in VBA Programming and C++ Programming.
- Strong mathematical aptitude.
- Values teamwork and is capable of thinking independently.
- Can communicate effectively while under pressure.
- Can adapt to changing situations with ease.
- Bachelor's Degree from a 4-year university.
- Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related technical field.
- Strong GPA (3.5 or higher).
Benefits include medical insurance, retirement plan, PTO, etc. Salary: 80K+ DOE. Keywords: Chicago IL Jobs, Experienced Trader High Frequency Trading, Excel Programming, VBA Programming, C++ Programming, Programmer Analyst, Trader, Trading, Financial, Chicago Recruiters, Information Technology Jobs, IT Jobs, Chicago Recruiting
Company Will Relocate Candidates!
Looking to hire for similar positions in Chicago, IL or in other cities? Our IT recruiting agencies and staffing companies can help.
We help companies that are looking to hire Experienced Traders with High Frequency Trading for jobs in Chicago, Illinois and in other cities too. Please contact our IT recruiting agencies and IT staffing companies today! Phone 630-428-0600 ext 11 or email us at jobs@nextstepsystems.com. Click here to submit your resume for this job and others.
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