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Phd Quant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PhD preferred2-5 years of relevant experience as a commodity quant supporting a sell-side trading desk or a quantitatively oriented asset manager; exceptional junior candidates with directly relevant ...

PhD preferred * 2-5 years of relevant experience as a commodity quant supporting a sell-side trading desk or a quantitatively oriented asset manager; exceptional junior candidates with directly ...

PhD preferred * 2-5 years of relevant experience as a commodity quant supporting a sell-side trading desk or a quantitatively oriented asset manager; exceptional junior candidates with directly ...

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Phd Quant information

See California salary details

$96.7K

$167.5K

$256.1K

How much do phd quant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd quant in California is $167,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,700.00 and $196,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD Quant?

A PhD Quant, short for Quantitative Analyst with a PhD, is a professional who uses advanced mathematical, statistical, and computational techniques to analyze financial markets and develop complex models for trading, risk management, or investment strategies. They typically work in banks, hedge funds, or financial technology firms. PhD Quants leverage their deep expertise in fields like mathematics, physics, computer science, or engineering to solve challenging problems and gain insights that drive financial decision-making. Their work often involves programming, data analysis, and the implementation of quantitative models.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD Quant?

To thrive as a PhD Quant, you need a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and programming, typically supported by a PhD in a quantitative field such as mathematics, physics, finance, or engineering. Expertise in technical tools such as Python, C++, R, and experience with statistical modeling systems and quantitative finance libraries is expected. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing complex models, interpreting data accurately, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams in high-stakes financial environments.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics for a PhD Quant within a financial institution?

PhD Quants frequently work in close collaboration with traders, risk managers, and software engineers to develop and implement quantitative models for pricing, risk assessment, and trading strategies. While a significant portion of the work involves independent research and model development, regular meetings and cross-functional teamwork are essential to ensure models align with business objectives and regulatory requirements. Effective communication skills are important, as PhD Quants often need to explain complex mathematical concepts to colleagues with varying technical backgrounds.

What is the difference between Phd Quant vs Quant Analyst?

AspectPhd QuantQuant Analyst
Required CredentialsPhD in Mathematics, Statistics, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, often with quantitative skills
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in finance or hedge fundsTrading floors, financial institutions, or asset management firms
Industry UsagePrimarily in hedge funds, investment banks, and proprietary tradingIn asset management, hedge funds, and banks

The main difference between a Phd Quant and a Quant Analyst lies in their educational background and focus. Phd Quants typically hold doctoral degrees and focus on developing complex models and research, while Quant Analysts often have master's or bachelor's degrees and focus on applying models to trading strategies. Both roles are integral to quantitative finance but differ in scope and depth of research.

Do quant firms hire PhDs?

Quant firms frequently hire PhDs, especially in fields like mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering, to develop and implement complex trading algorithms and models. Candidates typically need strong quantitative skills, programming experience in languages such as Python or C++, and a solid understanding of financial markets. A PhD can provide a competitive edge in securing roles in quantitative research, trading, or risk management within these firms.

How much do PhD quants make?

PhD quants typically earn between $150,000 and $300,000 annually, with compensation increasing based on experience, location, and the complexity of their quantitative models. Many also receive bonuses and profit-sharing, especially in finance and hedge fund environments where advanced statistical and programming skills are essential.

What cities in California are hiring for Phd Quant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Phd Quant job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Quant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,506 per year, or $80.5 per hour.

2027 Summer Intern - PhD Quant Research Analyst, Client Solutions & Analytics, US

PIMCO

Newport Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

PIMCO is a global leader in active fixed income. With our launch in 1971 in Newport Beach, California, PIMCO introduced investors to a total return approach to fixed income investing. In the 50+ years since, we have worked relentlessly to help millions of investors pursue their objectives - regardless of shifting marketing conditions. As active investors, our goal is not just to find opportunities, but to create them. To this end, we remain firmly committed to the pursuit of our mission: delivering superior investment returns, solutions, and service to our clients.
Since 1971, our people have shaped our organization through a high-performance inclusive culture, in which we celebrate diverse thinking. We invest in our people and strive to imprint our CORE values of Collaboration, Openness, Responsibility and Excellence. We believe each of us is here to help others succeed and this has led to PIMCO being recognized as an innovator, industry thought leader and trusted advisor to our clients.
202 7 Summer Internship - PhD Quant Research Analyst, Client Solutions & Analytics, US
Internship positions are located at PIMCO's Newport Beach, CA Headquarters .
You're eligible to apply if you:
  • Ph.D. candidate from a top program in quantitative disciplines; Finance, Economics, Statistics, Physics or Math preferred
  • Must be able to begin full time employment from a PIMCO office between January 2028 - August 2028
  • Must be enrolled at a university during the Fall 202 7 semester ( August 202 7 - December 202 7 )
Client Analytics
The client analytics team produces innovative thought leadership and quantitative research for PIMCO's clients. Candidates can expect to publish research pieces on relevant market themes, construct bespoke investment solutions, and develop platforms and applications to better analyze client portfolios. The team's research topics are broad- ranging adapting to market trends and client interest. Recent publications include: views on inflation, the role of fixed income in a low yielding environment, private asset risk and performance, smart beta emerging market portfolios, and retirement planning. Candidates should be hands-on creative thinkers able to build research and investment solutions from inception to completion to fit client needs. Candidates will collaborate with multiple parts of the firm, including Portfolio Management, Product Strategy, and Client Management and can expect to be involved in both internal as well as client presentations. Applicants should have a strong research background as well as excellent public speaking skills.
Desired Candidates Should Possess the Following Characteristics:
  • Strong interest and background in quantitative disciplines; knowledge of asset pricing, economic theory, and optimization methods preferred
  • Formal training in empirical research, especially time series and panel data econometrics; experience analyzing large data sets preferred
  • Proficiency in programming; Python, MATLAB, C++, preferred
  • Strong analytical, problem solving, and presentation skills
  • Demonstrate curiosity and experience in using new emerging technologies and AI tools in your work or school projects to solve problems and drive better outcomes
The PIMCO Internship Experience:
  • The PIMCO Internship is a 10-week program that runs from early June to mid-August, with the expectation that you will be available for the full duration of the program
  • During Week 1, you'll participate in PIMCO Fundamentals Training, providing you with the skills, knowledge, and relationships that will prepare you for success
  • Alongside your colleagues, participate in PIMCO's Global Month of Volunteering , developed to heighten the impact of our employees' worldwide volunteer efforts
  • Join us for a variety of cross-divisional education, networking & social events!
  • Your supervisor, peer mentor, senior leaders and team offer guidance and mentorship throughout the summer
  • You will gain hands-on experience with AI-powered tools from day one, with training and resources that help build future ready skills and make an impact from the start
  • You'll receive feedback at mid- and end-of-summer as part of a formal review process to keep you on the path to meeting your summer goals
  • Want to learn more? Hear about The PIMCO Internship Experience from past interns
  • As a PIMCO intern, you'll receive competitive compensation, along with a transition bonus to help with relocation to one of our office locations
What to expect during the interview process:
  • After we receive your application, we'll conduct an initial resume review
  • If selected to move forward, you'll showcase your interests and skills in first-round interview s
  • Following the first-round interview s, you will meet with us during final-round interviews conducted live via video conference. Interviews typically consist of behavioral and technical concepts.
Applications for the internship program are reviewed in phases. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible to be considered in the initial review. Later applications received may still be considered; however, due to the high volume of interest, we cannot guarantee that all applications will be reviewed.
PIMCO is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive, cognitively diverse environment.
For more information on PIMCO and Career Opportunities, please visit https://www.pimco.com/us/en/about-us/careers
PIMCO follows a total compensation approach when rewarding employees which includes a base salary and a discretionary bonus. Base salary is the fixed component of compensation that is determined by core job responsibilities, relevant experience, internal level, and market factors. The discretionary bonus is used to award performance and therefore is determined by company, business, team, and individual performance.
Salary: $ 205,000.00
Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Statement
PIMCO recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, national origin, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and expression), age, military or veteran status, disability (physical or mental), any factor prohibited by law, and as such affirms in policy and practice to support and promote the concept of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action, in accordance with all applicable federal, state, provincial and municipal laws. The company also prohibits discrimination on other basis such as medical condition, or marital status under applicable laws.
Applicants with Disabilities
PIMCO is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including veterans, in job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system due to a disability and you would like to request an accommodation, you may contact us at 949-720-7744 and leave a message. This is a dedicated line designed exclusively to assist job seekers with disabilities to apply online. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.