ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Options Trading Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Edgehog Trading

Quantitative Options Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

About us Edgehog Trading is a proprietary trading firm specializing in electronic options market making. We take a technology-driven approach, designing and operating automated, scalable systems to ...

Old Mission

Systematic Equity Options Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$170K - $250K/yr

Design and implement systematic trading strategies for equity options, including single-name options, index options, and volatility products * Build and maintain quantitative models for options ...

Old Mission

Systematic Equity Options Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$170K - $250K/yr

Old Mission is a global proprietary trading firm that leverages state-of-the-art technology and ... This Equity Options trader will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing ...

Group One Trading

Trading Analyst Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

... trading firm, is actively seeking motivated individuals, who work well in high-pressure ... Although knowledge of the options industry is an obvious asset, we are seeking college students ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptions Trading JobsOptions Trading Jobs in Chicago, IL

Options Trading information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$37

$51

How much do options trading jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for options trading in Chicago, IL is $37.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $47.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by options traders in a fast-paced trading environment?

Options traders often encounter challenges such as maintaining focus during volatile market periods, managing risk exposure effectively, and keeping up with rapidly changing information. Working in a high-pressure environment, traders must make quick, data-driven decisions while collaborating closely with analysts, risk managers, and other traders. Staying updated on market news, mastering complex strategies, and adapting to evolving regulations are also essential for long-term success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an options trader, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Options Trader, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of financial markets, and a background in finance, mathematics, or economics, often supported by relevant certifications such as FINRA Series 7 or CFA. Proficiency with trading platforms (like Bloomberg Terminal, Thinkorswim, or Interactive Brokers), risk management software, and data analysis tools is essential. Outstanding decision-making ability, stress tolerance, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for making informed, timely trades and managing risk in the fast-moving options markets.

How much do options traders make?

Options traders' earnings vary widely based on experience, skill, trading capital, and market conditions. Successful traders can earn from a few thousand dollars annually to six-figure incomes, but trading also involves significant risk and potential losses. Many traders supplement their income with education, analysis tools, and disciplined strategies.

What is the difference between Options Trading vs Stock Trading?

AspectOptions TradingStock Trading
Required CredentialsNone mandatory, but certifications like Series 7 or 63 can helpSeries 7 license often required for professional trading
Work EnvironmentFinancial firms, trading desks, online platformsBrokerage firms, online trading platforms, investment firms
Industry UsageUsed for hedging, speculation, income strategiesUsed for long-term investing, growth, dividends
Risk LevelHigher due to leverage and complexityLower, generally less complex

Options trading involves contracts that give the right to buy or sell assets at specific prices, often used for hedging or speculation. Stock trading involves buying and selling shares of companies, typically for long-term growth or income. While both are active investment strategies, options trading is more complex and riskier, requiring specific knowledge and sometimes certifications, whereas stock trading is more straightforward and accessible for most investors.

Is options trading a good career?

Options trading as a career involves analyzing financial markets, managing risk, and making strategic decisions using tools like trading platforms and financial analysis. It requires strong analytical skills, discipline, and often certifications such as the Series 7 or Series 63. Success depends on market knowledge, experience, and risk management abilities.

What is options trading?

Options trading involves buying and selling contracts that give the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying asset at a specified price before a certain date. These contracts are known as 'options' and are commonly used for hedging risk or for speculative purposes. There are two main types of options: calls (which allow buying the asset) and puts (which allow selling the asset). Options trading can be complex and carries significant risk, so it's important to understand the strategies and risks involved before participating.

How to get a job as an options trader?

To become an options trader, gain a strong understanding of financial markets, options strategies, and risk management through relevant education such as finance, economics, or related fields. Obtain certifications like the Series 7 and Series 63 if required by your region, and gain experience through internships or entry-level trading roles to develop practical skills. Proficiency with trading platforms and analytical tools is also essential for success in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Options Trading jobs in Chicago, IL? For Options Trading jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Options Trading jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Options Trading jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Options Trading jobs near you
Infographic showing various Options Trading job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,358 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Options Trader - Expression of Interest

Eclipse Trading

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Options Trader

Eclipse Trading is a leading proprietary trading firm. Founded in 2007, we have over 110 employees across 4 office locations - Hong Kong (our HQ), Sydney, Shanghai and Chicago. Our trading expertise and strategies are deployed across several markets globally, focusing on various products including equity derivatives, delta one, ETFs, commodity derivatives, and cryptocurrency. Technology is inextricably linked to our trading strategies, creating an environment powered by intellectual curiosity, problem solving, and innovation.

We are actively seeking an Options Trader to join our growing US equity volatility trading team in Chicago. You will play a key role in managing and improving our US systematic and positional options trading strategies. You will also collaborate extensively with our quantitative researchers and technologist to drive our trading system forward and unlock trading opportunities.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Manage and execute multiple options trading strategies, systematic market making and positional strategies
  • Responsible for the risk management of the portfolio
  • Identify trading opportunities and develop trading metrics based on proprietary research and data analysis
  • Collaborate with other traders and quantitative researchers to optimise existing strategies and explore new alphas
  • Work closely with the quants, developers, and support staff to continuously improve our trading infrastructure system

What you offer

  • Bachelor's degree in finance, economics, mathematics, or a related field
  • 2+ years of US index and equity options experience
  • Proven track record of profitability and consistent trading performance
  • Deep understanding of the US equity option markets and the trading opportunities
  • Strong knowledge of options pricing models and volatility analysis
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make informed trading decisions
  • Ability to thrive and make decisions in a fast-paced trading environment and handle pressure effectively
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Good command of spoken and written English
  • Strong proficiency in coding with Python

What we offer

  • Dynamic and collaborative work environment
  • Opportunity to contribute directly to the bottom line
  • Mentorship and training opportunities
  • A flat management structure, where everyone's voice is valued
  • Work life balance within a multi-cultural environment
  • Attractive benefits package with discretionary bonus

Eclipse Trading is an equal opportunity employer and we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential pillars of our success as a company. We are dedicated to embrace a culture reflecting a variety of perspectives, insights and backgrounds to drive innovation. We build talented and diverse teams to drive business results and encourage our people to develop to their full potential.

All information provided will be treated in strict confidence and used solely for recruitment purposes.

Due to the high number of responses that we receive, we are only able to respond to successful applicants.

Apply