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Trading Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Our team spans trading, engineering, and business operations, working together to build and support the systems that power the firm. We emphasize data-driven decision making, rigorous problem solving ...

About us Edgehog Trading is a proprietary trading firm specializing in electronic options market ... Our team spans trading, engineering, and business operations, working together to build and support ...

Our global team is a diverse group of experienced engineers, traders, and brokerage professionals ... developer-friendly API and the robust infrastructure behind it. Alpaca is proudly backed by top ...

Always Recruiting For

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

We are always open to hiring for the following roles: - Software Developers - specifically Python - Quant Developers - Live Sports Traders - DevOps Engineers Please submit your resume and it will be ...

Technical Product Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$172K - $199K/yr

Responsibilities : • Partner closely with traders to understand daily workflows, decision making, and trading patterns • Work with engineering teams to design, build, and iterate on high ...

Their team spans trading, engineering, and business operations, working together to build and support the systems that power the firm. They emphasize data-driven decision making, rigorous problem ...

C++ Developer - Trading Platforms

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $68/hr

As a C++ Developer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimising high-performance trading systems and infrastructure that power our platforms. You will play a key role in ...

C++ Developer - Trading Platforms

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50.50 - $68/hr

As a C++ Developer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimising high-performance trading systems and infrastructure that power our platforms. You will play a key role in ...

Discretionary Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36K - $42K/yr

Access our world-class proprietary electronic trading platform, featuring unique visualization and execution tools specifically engineered for discretionary success. * Unrivaled Speed: Trade on a ...

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Showing results 1-20

Trading Developer information

See Illinois salary details

$15

$58

$73

How much do trading developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for trading developer in Illinois is $58.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52.88 and $68.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Trading Developers?

Trading Developers are software engineers who design, build, and maintain technology systems used by trading firms, banks, or hedge funds to execute financial trades. They work closely with traders and quantitative analysts to develop algorithms, automate trading strategies, and ensure low-latency transaction processing. Their role often involves programming, debugging, optimizing code for speed, and integrating with various data feeds or exchanges. Trading Developers typically need strong programming skills (often in C++, Python, or Java), a good understanding of financial markets, and the ability to solve complex, performance-critical problems.

How does a Trading Developer typically collaborate with traders and quantitative analysts during the development of trading systems?

A Trading Developer works closely with traders and quantitative analysts to translate trading strategies into robust, high-performance code. Collaboration often involves regular meetings to review requirements, gather feedback, and iterate on prototypes. Developers may sit on the trading floor or join daily stand-ups, ensuring quick communication and alignment with business goals. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the systems are both technically sound and tailored to the strategic needs of the trading desk.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trading Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trading Developer, you need strong programming skills (often in C++, Python, or Java), a solid understanding of financial markets, and a relevant degree such as computer science, mathematics, or engineering. Familiarity with trading platforms (like FIX protocol), low-latency systems, and version control tools, as well as experience with automated testing frameworks, are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with traders and managing complex projects. These abilities are crucial for building robust, high-performance trading systems that can adapt to dynamic market conditions and deliver competitive advantages.

What is the difference between Trading Developer vs Quantitative Analyst?

AspectTrading DeveloperQuantitative Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Finance, or related fields; programming skills (Python, C++, Java)Degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Finance, or related; strong analytical and programming skills
Work EnvironmentDevelops trading systems, algorithms, and tools used by tradersBuilds mathematical models and algorithms to analyze financial data
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial firms, hedge funds, trading desksAsset management firms, hedge funds, investment banks

While both roles require programming skills and a finance background, Trading Developers focus on creating and maintaining trading systems, whereas Quantitative Analysts develop models to inform trading strategies. Both roles are integral to trading operations but differ in their primary focus and responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Trading Developer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,976 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Senior Index Options Trader

Edgehog Trading

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

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 provide liquidity across markets.
Our team spans trading, engineering, and business operations, working together to build and support the systems that power the firm. We emphasize data-driven decision making, rigorous problem solving, and continuous improvement to navigate complex and evolving markets.
We operate in a highly collaborative environment where ideas can move quickly from concept to implementation, and where individuals are empowered to take ownership and contribute directly to the firm's growth.
What you'll do:
  • Proactively manage pricing and positions for the SPX Index options market making desk
  • Design and optimize systematic options trading strategies using quantitative research and machine learning techniques
  • Build and refine algorithmic options trading models from ideation through production deployment
  • Analyze market microstructure and execution quality to generate alpha signals and improve strategy performance
  • Collaborate with quant researchers and engineers to develop new models using our proprietary datasets
  • Manage real-time risk across a diversified portfolio of options positions

Qualifications and skills:
  • Previous experience trading (3+ years) with a proven track record of success managing an index options market making book
  • BA/BS/MS/PhD degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Math, Economics, Finance, Physics, or related field
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Excellent quantitative and analytical skills
  • Ability to take on many responsibilities quickly with a high degree of operational excellence
  • Python programming skills are a plus, but not required

Why Edgehog:
  • Small team advantage: Direct access to founders and senior team members from day one
  • Ownership early: Manage real P&L and make meaningful impact within your first year
  • Cutting-edge tech: Work with our proprietary models and low-latency trading systems built in-house
  • Tight feedback loops: Weekly 1-on-1s with your mentor, quarterly reviews with leadership
  • Chicago-based: Affordable cost of living, vibrant trading community

Benefits:
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with premiums 100% covered by the firm
  • 401(k) with a 4% company match
  • Unlimited paid time off and sick leave
  • Free lunch, coffee, drinks, and snacks
  • Commuter benefits
  • Monthly happy hours and annual team events

The base salary range for this position is listed below. Base salary represents just one part of overall compensation; all full-time, permanent roles are eligible for a discretionary bonus and benefits, including items in the above list.
The base salary for this role is 150,000 - 175,000 USD per year