Internship R&D Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

About Akuna:  

Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm with a strong focus on collaboration, cutting-edge technology, data driven solutions, and automation. We specialize in providing liquidity as an options market maker, meaning we are committed to providing competitive quotes that we are willing to both buy and sell. To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading strategies, and mathematical models. 

Our Founding Partners first conceptualized Akuna in their hometown of Sydney. They opened the firm's first office in 2011 in the heart of the derivatives industry and the options capital of the world - Chicago. Today, Akuna is proud to operate from additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, Singapore, and London. 

What you'll do as a Python Software Engineer Intern at Akuna: 

We are seeking Python Software Engineer Interns to join our innovative and growing technology team for our 10-week Akunacademy internship program. In this role, you will join either our Post Trade Technology or Data Engineering teams and work alongside software engineers and traders to design and implement elegant solutions to complex and interesting problems. Each intern takes full ownership of their project, and at the end of the program, has the opportunity to present their work and accomplishments.  

Python Software Engineer Interns at Akuna have the opportunity to use cutting-edge technology while working on high-performance systems that process and analyze large volumes of trading and market data. We offer a team-based approach to trading and software engineering, believing that productive integration of the two groups is vital for success in this industry.  

Akuna is looking for software engineer interns who are motivated and willing to reach for creative solutions when faced with novel problems. We value innovation and hard work and want our engineers to make an impact on the firm. Whether you are interested in trading infrastructure, algorithms, exchange gateways, or data capture and analysis, there's engaging work to be done. If you are excited to jump in and make a difference, Akuna could be the place for you. 

Requirements for this role: 

• Pursuing a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. in a technical field (Computer Science/Engineering, Math, Physics, or equivalent)

• Graduating by August 2028 

• Major GPA of 3.5 or above 

• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required on the first day of employment including F-1 students using OPT or STEM 
   

Previous experience in finance or trading is not required. Many of our engineers joined Akuna with little-to-no prior knowledge of the markets, and we pride ourselves on our ability to onboard those new to the industry. Training and continuous education are provided for all engineers to ensure they can build the requisite technical and non-technical skillset for success. 

Qualities That Make a Great Python Software Engineer Intern Candidate: 

• Strong programming skills in Object-Oriented Python Development 

• Demonstrated experience with distributed systems 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 

• Ability to communicate with the trading team, obtain requirements, find solutions, and implement them in a clean and concise way 

• Ability to create an easily understood and testable codebase that can change as quickly as market conditions require 

• Ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including the ability to quickly and accurately respond and/or solve math and coding problems, is an essential function of the role 

• Passion for innovation and building systems from the ground up 

• Adaptability in an ever-changing environment 

• Self-starter attitude with the ability to work independently 

**Resumes must be submitted in PDF format.  

In addition to technical skillsets, Akuna values the unique perspectives people can bring to the table to collaboratively solve complex problems and drive Akuna forward. We want all groups to feel empowered to apply, even if you don't meet every qualification. We welcome your application and encourage you to take the first steps toward your future with us! 

By applying to this role, you are indicating this is your top preference and acknowledge you will not be considered for other Quant and/or Tech roles at Akuna this recruiting season. This acknowledgement does not limit applications to Trading roles - in addition to this role, you may apply to any Trader roles of interest.  

We are an AI-friendly company and encourage employees to leverage AI in their daily work. However, AI assistance is not permitted during interviews or assessments. Our interview process is designed to evaluate your individual skills and judgment, and the use of AI tools will result in disqualification from the hiring process.

In accordance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, the minimum annualized base salary starts at $145,000. Exact compensation offered may vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skill set. The minimum base salary herein was determined in good faith by Akuna Capital LLC.