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Graduate Quant Trader Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

$92K - $171K/yr

Responsible for algorithm development, quantitative analysis, orbit determination, decision ... Graduate Degree and a minimum of 4 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum ...

Graduate Quant Trader information

See Colorado salary details

$103K

$178.5K

$272.9K

How much do graduate quant trader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate quant trader in Colorado is $178,473.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,400.00 and $209,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate quant trader?

Graduate Quant Traders are entry-level professionals who use quantitative analysis, mathematical models, and programming to develop and execute trading strategies for financial markets. They typically join investment banks, hedge funds, or proprietary trading firms after completing a degree in mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering, or a related field. These roles involve analyzing large datasets, building algorithms, and making real-time trading decisions to generate profits while managing risks. Graduate Quant Traders often work closely with senior traders and researchers to learn industry best practices and refine their skills. The job requires strong analytical abilities, programming skills (often in Python, C++, or R), and a keen interest in financial markets.

What are some common challenges faced by graduate quant traders during the first year on the job?

Graduate Quant Traders often encounter a steep learning curve in their first year, as they adapt to fast-paced environments and complex trading systems. Balancing the need to develop robust quantitative models while responding quickly to market changes can be demanding. Additionally, new traders must learn to collaborate effectively with senior traders, analysts, and developers, often needing to communicate their ideas clearly and incorporate feedback. Time management and the ability to handle high-pressure situations are also key challenges as they transition from academic settings to real-time trading floors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate quant trader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Quant Trader, you need strong quantitative and analytical skills, a background in mathematics, statistics, or a related field, and often a relevant degree. Proficiency with programming languages such as Python, C++, or R, experience with statistical modeling tools, and familiarity with trading platforms are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication set top candidates apart. These skills are crucial for developing, testing, and executing trading strategies in fast-moving financial markets.

What is the difference between Graduate Quant Trader vs Quant Analyst?

AspectGraduate Quant TraderQuant Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in Math, Finance, or Computer Science; often some programming skillsSimilar credentials; strong quantitative background; programming skills beneficial
Work EnvironmentFast-paced trading firms, hedge funds, investment banksFinancial institutions, asset management firms, hedge funds
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in trading desks to develop and implement trading strategiesUsed to analyze markets, develop models, and inform trading decisions

The main difference is that Graduate Quant Traders focus on executing trading strategies in live markets, often working directly with trading desks, while Quant Analysts primarily develop models and analyze data to support trading decisions. Both roles require strong quantitative skills and programming knowledge, but their day-to-day tasks and focus areas differ.

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Quant Trader jobs in Colorado?

For Graduate Quant Trader jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Quant Trader jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Quant Trader jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Graduate Quant Trader jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Graduate Quant Trader job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Quant Trader job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $178,473 per year, or $85.8 per hour.

Resource Planning Analyst I or II

Xcel Energy

Denver, CO

$84K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.

The below job summary and responsibilities reflect the duties of the Resource Planning Analyst I, Resource Planning Analyst II will differ as more skills and/or experience will be required. The successful candidate will be placed at a level that is commensurate with the candidate's skills and experience.

Position Summary
Develop, run, and maintain long range resource planning models for Xcel Energy's three operating companies. Prepare quantitative analysis new generation resources, identifying system cost, environmental, and capital budget impacts for various generation alternatives. Provide long range estimates of power generation costs and market purchases. Calculate revenue requirement streams for large capital investments. Apply stochastic analysis techniques to quantify the risk associated with particular generation alternatives.
Essential Responsibilities

  • Develop/run/maintain long range resource planning model. Ensure accuracy of model input assumptions and verify that simulations and optimizations are functioning correctly.

  • Produce comprehensive quantitative analysis for executives and regulatory filings. Analysis includes energy production, emission, and capital budget forecasts.

  • Implement stochastic (Monte Carlo) simulations around areas of significant uncertainty to identify total system costs variance around various generation alternatives.

  • Interface and work with Forecasting, Risk Management, Trading, Gas Supply, Coal Supply, Transmission Operations and other Xcel groups to incorporate short-term and long-range considerations into the optimal resource plans, including transmission constraints, growth forecasts, fuel and electricity market price risks, etc.

  • In conjunction with Risk Management, ensure that the expansion plan and production cost modeling of the utility power systems is accurate and current in terms of fuel costs, production capability (heat rates, capacity, starting and variable operating cost, etc.), contract terms (scheduling flexibility, constraints, availability, etc.).

  • Research new techniques in quantitative optimization for application to resource planning analysis.

  • Maintain working knowledge of emerging generation technology with the potential for future inclusion in the company's generation portfolio.

  • Follow developments in major federal and state policies that affect the company's resource plan (i.e. emission regulations and renewable energy standards.


Minimum Requirements - Analyst I ($84,900 - $120,566)

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, finance, economics, operations research, mathematics, business (two years professional experience related experience equivalent to one year of college).

  • Two years of energy industry experience or equivalent experience working with large optimization / forecasting models.

Minimum Requirements - Analyst II ($97,600 - $138,600)

  • Bachelors degree in engineering, finance, economics, operations research, mathematics, business.

  • Five or more years related work experience.

Preferred Requirements

  • Graduate work in mathematics, economics, operations research or engineering.

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $84,900.00 to $138,600.00 per yearThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 09/03/26

EEO is the Law |EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)

All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


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About Xcel Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xcel Energy is a prominent electricity and natural gas service provider serving multiple states in the United States, including Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Our commitment revolves around delivering essential services to our valued customers. As a trailblazer in the industry, we were the first major US electricity provider with a visionary goal to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and an ambitious 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels. Through innovative electric vehicle initiatives, we actively contribute to carbon reduction not only in our electricity generation but also in the transportation sector within the states we operate. Simultaneously, we remain devoted to ensuring cost-effectiveness for our customers by implementing advanced electricity rates and energy efficiency programs.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1909