1

Options Trading Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Systematic Equity Options Trader

Chicago, IL ยท 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 ...

Trading Analyst Intern

Chicago, IL ยท 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 ...

Engineering Lead- Options

New York, NY ยท On-site +1

$112K - $147K/yr

Options About Keyrock Since our beginnings in 2017, we've grown to be a leading change-maker in the ... We are trading on more than 80 exchanges, and working with a wide array of asset issuers. As a well ...

Trading Analyst Intern

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Summer Internship, June - August 2027(Must be an active college student during Fall 2027) Group One Trading, LP, a dynamic options trading firm, is actively seeking motivated individuals, who work ...

Engineering Lead- Options

New York, NY ยท Remote

$104K - $138K/yr

Options About Keyrock Since our beginnings in 2017, we've grown to be a leading change-maker in the ... We are trading on more than 80 exchanges, and working with a wide array of asset issuers. As a well ...

Head of Engineering: Options About Keyrock Since our beginnings in 2017, we've grown to be a ... We are trading on more than 80 exchanges, and working with a wide array of asset issuers. As a well ...

Head of Engineering: Options About Keyrock Since our beginnings in 2017, we've grown to be a ... We are trading on more than 80 exchanges, and working with a wide array of asset issuers. As a well ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Options Trading information

See salary details

$14

$36

$50

How much do options trading jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for options trading in the United States is $36.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $46.15 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.

Is option 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 technical 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, and it can be highly profitable but also carries significant financial risk.

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.

Can I make a living off trading options?

Options trading as a profession involves significant risk and requires strong knowledge of markets, strategies, and risk management. While some traders generate income from options, consistent full-time earnings are challenging and depend on skill, experience, capital, and market conditions. Many traders supplement their income or trade part-time, and professional options traders often work with advanced tools and certifications.

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, you typically need a strong understanding of financial markets, options strategies, and risk management, often gained through a degree in finance, economics, or related fields. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level trading roles and obtaining relevant certifications like the Series 7 or Series 63 can improve job prospects. Proficiency with trading platforms and analytical tools is also important for success in this field.

What are the 4 basic options positions?

Options trading involves four basic positions: long call, long put, short call, and short put. These positions allow traders to speculate on price movements or hedge existing investments, and understanding them is fundamental for developing more complex strategies. Knowledge of these positions is essential for options traders to manage risk and leverage potential returns.
More about Options Trading jobs
What cities are hiring for Options Trading jobs? Cities with the most Options Trading job openings:
What states have the most Options Trading jobs? States with the most job openings for Options Trading jobs include:
Infographic showing various Options Trading job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,005 per year, or $36.5 per hour.
Systematic Equity Options Trader

Systematic Equity Options Trader

Old Mission

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$170K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Old Mission is a global proprietary trading firm that leverages state-of-the-art technology and research to identify and execute profitable trading strategies across multiple asset classes around the world. Our offices in Chicago, New York, and London are all composed of naturally-curious individuals who thrive in a team environment and constantly strive for improvement.
Old Mission does not seek capital from outside investors, allowing us the flexibility to aggressively invest in our team members and keep them engaged in the firm's growth.
Old Mission is seeking a Systematic Equity Options Trader to join our growing options trading desk in our Chicago HQ. This Equity Options trader will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing systematic trading strategies across equity options markets. This Equity Options Trader will work closely with our quantitative research and technology teams to develop systematic approaches that capitalize on market inefficiencies while effectively managing risk.
Responsibilities
  • 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 pricing, volatility forecasting, and risk management
  • Monitor and optimize existing strategies, identifying opportunities for enhancement and improvement
  • Collaborate with quantitative researchers to translate research insights into production trading strategies
  • Manage portfolio risk through systematic hedging and position management
  • Analyze market microstructure and develop strategies to optimize execution quality
  • Work with technology teams to build robust, scalable trading infrastructure
  • Conduct post-trade analysis to evaluate strategy performance and identify areas for improvement

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, or related quantitative field; advanced degree preferred
  • 4+ years of experience in systematic options trading, quantitative trading, or quantitative research
  • Strong understanding of options pricing theory, Greeks, and volatility dynamics
  • Proficiency in Python or C++ is a prerequisite
  • Experience with statistical analysis, machine learning, and quantitative modeling techniques
  • Must have a strong understanding of the market microstructure and execution algorithms
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience trading equity options or volatility products systematically
  • Knowledge of order book dynamics and high-frequency trading concepts
  • Familiarity with real-time data processing and low-latency systems
  • Track record of developing profitable quantitative trading strategies

Base Salary Range
$170,000 - $250,000 - Salaries are based on numerous factors such as skills, experience, and education. Our compensation package also includes a discretionary bonus and a comprehensive benefits program for full-time employees. For more information, reach out to your recruiter.
Old Mission is not accepting unsolicited resumes from any staffing/search firms. All resumes submitted by staffing/search firms to any employee at Old Mission via-email, the Internet or directly without a valid signed search agreement will be deemed the sole property of Old Mission, and no fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Old Mission.