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Trade Operations Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Trade Operations Engineer - Tribus

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

Singapore - relocation support Trade Operations Engineer - Global Quant Trading Firm - Singapore A leading global quantitative proprietary trading firm is looking for a Trade Operations Engineer to ...

Import Trade Operations Lead

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$110K - $140K/yr

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Import Trade Operations Specialist

Elgin, IL ยท Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

AIM is seeking an Operations Associate -Trade Analyst to support the operational and service needs of our manager traded UMA platform. This individual will serve as a key point of contact for post ...

AIM is seeking an Operations Associate -Trade Analyst to support the operational and service needs of our manager traded UMA platform. This individual will serve as a key point of contact for post ...

We strive for efficient and effective operations, and we hold each other accountable for delivering ... As theSenior Trade and Customs Analyst, you will play a critical role in ensuring Baxter's global ...

As a Trade Support Engineer, you'll sit on the front line of our trading operations, working shoulder-to-shoulder with traders, developers, and quantitative researchers to keep the production trading ...

Trade Support Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$145K - $177K/yr

As a Trade Support Engineer, you'll sit on the front line of our trading operations, working shoulder-to-shoulder with traders, developers, and quantitative researchers to keep the production trading ...

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Showing results 1-20

Trade Operations information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$25

$51

How much do trade operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for trade operations in Illinois is $25.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is trade operations?

Trade Operations refer to the processes and activities involved in supporting the execution, clearing, and settlement of financial trades in markets such as equities, bonds, derivatives, and foreign exchange. Professionals in trade operations ensure that all trades are accurately processed, documented, and settled in a timely manner, while also managing risks and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Their role is essential for the smooth functioning of investment banks, asset managers, and other financial institutions, as they act as the link between the front office (traders and sales) and the back office (settlement and accounting).

What is the difference between Trade Operations vs Trade Compliance?

AspectTrade OperationsTrade Compliance
ResponsibilitiesManaging daily trade activities, logistics, and documentationEnsuring adherence to trade laws, regulations, and sanctions
CredentialsLogistics certifications, supply chain knowledgeCustoms regulations, compliance certifications
Work EnvironmentLogistics departments, international trade teamsLegal and compliance departments, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageCommon in global trade and logistics companiesEssential in companies dealing with international trade regulations

Trade Operations focuses on managing the logistics and daily activities of international trade, while Trade Compliance ensures adherence to legal and regulatory requirements. Both roles are vital in global trade, often collaborating to facilitate smooth and lawful international transactions.

What does a trade operations do?

A trade operations professional manages the processing, settlement, and reconciliation of financial transactions related to trading activities. They ensure compliance with regulations, maintain accurate records, and use trading platforms and tools to support efficient trade execution and reporting.

What are some common challenges faced in a trade operations role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Trade Operations often encounter challenges such as tight settlement deadlines, managing complex cross-border transactions, and ensuring compliance with various regulatory requirements. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential to minimize errors and prevent costly settlement failures. Many teams use specialized software and collaborate closely with traders, compliance officers, and custodians to streamline processes and resolve discrepancies quickly. Staying updated on industry regulations and fostering strong communication within the team can significantly help in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in trade operations?

To excel in Trade Operations, a solid understanding of financial markets, trade lifecycle management, and strong analytical skills are critical, often supported by a degree in finance or a related field. Familiarity with trade processing systems such as SWIFT, Bloomberg, and reconciliation software, as well as regulatory compliance certifications, is highly valued. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help professionals resolve discrepancies and coordinate with multiple stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate and efficient trade settlements, minimize risk, and maintain regulatory compliance in fast-paced financial environments.

What are popular job titles related to Trade Operations jobs in Illinois?

For Trade Operations jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Trade Operations job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,897 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Associate, Trade Operations

Oaktree Capital Management, L.P.

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Our Company
Oaktree is a leader among global investment managers specializing in alternative investments, with more than $220 billion in assets under management. The firm emphasizes an opportunistic, value-oriented, and risk-controlled approach to investments in credit, equity, and real estate. The firm has more than 1,400 employees and offices in more than 25 cities worldwide.
We are committed to cultivating an environment that is collaborative, curious, inclusive and honors diversity of thought. Providing training and career development opportunities and emphasizing strong support for our local communities through philanthropic initiatives are essential to our culture.
For additional information please visit our website at www.oaktreecapital.com.
Responsibilities
The Associate position within Trade Operations serves as a critical operational partner to both the Oaktree and Brookfield PSG investment teams, providing comprehensive end-to-end trade processing support across both business lines. The candidate will be responsible for ensuring all trade activity is entered, allocated, confirmed, communicated, and settled with accuracy and timeliness in accordance with established standards. In addition to day-to-day operational execution, this role carries strategic responsibility for leading initiatives to enhance straight-through processing (STP) capabilities, streamline operational workflows, and evaluate technology-driven solutions that support the ongoing integration of Oaktree and Brookfield PSG operations. The position will collaborate cross-functionally and partner closely with the technology team to design, develop specifications, test, and deliver new system functionality and enhancements.
  • Serve as the primary trade operations point of contact for multiple Oaktree credit strategies, encompassing the staging, booking, and allocation of fixed income, equity, and bank debt transactions across a diverse portfolio of accounts, funds, and special purpose vehicles, in strict adherence to allocation guidelines established by the respective Portfolio Management and Trading teams;
  • Deliver dedicated operational support across Brookfield PSG trade processing workflows, while actively contributing to strategic integration initiatives aimed at harmonizing trade operations processes and systems across the Oaktree and Brookfield PSG business lines;
  • Facilitate proactive communication and issue resolution across traders, accounting, reconciliation teams, and other key stakeholder groups to address and remediate trade processing discrepancies in a timely and effective manner;
  • Monitor trade lifecycle activity to ensure timely communication of trade details to external counterparties, custodians, and downstream systems, maintaining full compliance with applicable deadlines and settlement obligations;
  • Manage the end-to-end processing of bespoke and privately negotiated settlement transactions, coordinating with all relevant parties to ensure accurate and timely completion;
  • Lead the resolution of escalated settlement failures and exceptions through direct engagement with custodians, counterparties, and internal teams
  • Champion and drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase straight-through processing (STP) rates across both Oaktree and Brookfield PSG, identifying operational inefficiencies and implementing scalable solutions that support the combined organization's growth objectives;
  • Adhere to and reinforce established escalation protocols to ensure operational risks and exceptions are surfaced, communicated, and resolved in accordance with firm policies and risk management standards;
  • Provide cross-coverage and operational support for team members as required, ensuring continuity of trade processing functions across both Oaktree and Brookfield PSG business lines without disruption to service levels;
  • Partner with the technology team to define business requirements, design functional specifications, and participate in the development, testing, and deployment of new system capabilities and platform enhancements that support trade operations across both business lines;
  • Author and maintain comprehensive operational procedures and workflow documentation, and provide structured training and knowledge transfer to team members as processes evolve or new responsibilities are onboarded;
  • Cultivate and maintain effective working relationships with a broad network of internal and external stakeholders, including investment teams, technology, finance, compliance, custodians, and counterparties, fostering a collaborative environment that supports operational excellence across the firm.

Experience Required:
  • 5-7 years of relevant investment operations experience, with demonstrated expertise across derivative instruments, collateral management, regulatory reporting, and multi-asset trade settlement processes;
  • Proven experience working with industry-standard trade utilities, matching platforms, and communication protocols, including CTM, ALERT, SWIFT, FIX, and VCON, as well as familiarity with relevant market agreements and regulatory frameworks;
  • Strong quantitative and analytical capabilities, with the ability to assess complex operational data, identify trends and root causes, and recommend and implement data-driven process improvements.

Personal Attributes:
  • Exceptional interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex operational concepts clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences;
  • Highly motivated self-starter with a strong sense of initiative and a demonstrated track record of operating independently, exercising sound judgment, and delivering results with minimal oversight;
  • Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize multiple concurrent responsibilities in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment, maintaining accuracy and composure under pressure;
  • Adaptable and collaborative team player who leads with integrity and professionalism, and thrives in a dynamic, cross-functional environment spanning multiple business lines and organizational teams.

Education:
A bachelor's degree is required.
Base Salary
$115,000 - $140,000
In addition to a competitive base salary, you will be eligible to receive discretionary bonus incentives, a comprehensive benefits package and a flexible work arrangement. The base salary offered will be commensurate with experience and/or qualifications, industry knowledge and expertise, as well as prior training and education.
Equal Opportunity Employment Policy
Oaktree is committed to diversity and to equal opportunity employment. Oaktree does not make employment decisions on the basis of race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, past or present physical or mental disability, HIV status, medical condition as defined by state law (genetic characteristics or cancer), pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, veteran status, military service, marital status, familial status, genetic information, domestic violence victim status or any other classification protected by applicable federal, state and local laws and ordinances. This policy applies to hiring, placement, internal promotions, training, opportunities for advancement, recruitment advertising, transfers, demotions, layoffs, terminations, recruitment advertising, rates of pay and other forms of compensation and all other terms, conditions and privileges of employment. This policy applies to all Oaktree applicants, employees, clients, and contractors. Staff members wishing to report violations or suspected violations of this policy should contact the head of their department or Human Resources.
For positions based in Los Angeles
For those applying for a position in the city of Los Angeles, the firm will consider for employment qualified applicants with a criminal history in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.