One of the world’s leading proprietary trading firms, Optiver is known for its fast-paced environment, cutting-edge technology, and highly competitive compensation packages. A career at Optiver might be ideal for you if you are interested in financial services, especially trading, technology, or research. Optiver offers a wide variety of job opportunities and we’ll provide tips on how to get a job there.
Job Opportunities at Optiver
There are a variety of roles available at Optiver across a variety of industries. There are a number of positions that are in high demand, including:
1. Trading
To execute high-speed trades and optimize market positions, Optiver’s traders use data, strategy, and technology. There are several key roles in trading, including:
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The Graduate Trader position is designed for individuals who have strong analytical and quantitative skills. To develop their market intuition and decision-making skills, candidates typically undergo rigorous training and simulation exercises.
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The experienced trader program is designed for professionals who have previously traded in the financial markets. In addition to optimizing returns and risk, these traders utilize high-frequency and algorithmic trading strategies.
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Quantitative Trader: Develops and refines algorithmic and systematic trading strategies in collaboration with quant researchers and developers.
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Options Trader: Manages complex derivative strategies and specializes in trading options contracts.
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Execution Trader: Manages trade execution and market-making operations while working with technology teams to improve efficiency.
2. Technology
The cutting-edge infrastructure of Optiver makes it a tech-driven firm. Among the major roles in tech are:
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Developing algorithms, connecting markets, and optimizing data infrastructure is part of the responsibility of software engineers. In addition to Python, C++, and Java, they also work with other programming languages.
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Infrastructure Engineers: Responsible for managing and enhancing Optiver’s high-performance trading systems.
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DevOps engineers ensure seamless operation and deployment of trading systems and applications. Pipelines for continuous integration and delivery are maintained by them.
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Security Engineers: Implement robust security protocols and monitor suspicious activity to protect Optiver’s systems and data.
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Data Engineers: Process, store, and analyze large amounts of data to support trading decisions and risk management.
3. Quantitative Research
At Optiver, quantitative researchers develop predictive models and data-driven trading strategies. A strong background in mathematics and statistics is ideal for this position. A few of the responsibilities include:
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Developing market prediction models based on statistical and machine learning techniques.
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Identifying trading opportunities using market data analysis.
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Collaborating with traders and engineers to enhance execution strategies.
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Modeling, testing, and implementing risk management hypotheses.
4. Risk & Compliance
Assuring Optiver’s trading strategies align with regulatory standards and risk tolerance levels is the responsibility of Risk Analysts and Compliance Officers. These roles include:
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Risk Analyst: Assesses potential financial risks and suggests risk mitigation strategies.
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Compliance Officer: Maintains ethical and legal trading operations by adhering to regulatory requirements and internal policies.
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Market Risk Specialist: Assesses real-time risks and helps traders optimize their strategies while staying within risk limits.
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Regulatory Reporting Analyst: Ensures transparency in reporting and manages interactions with financial regulators.
5. Business & Operations
Human resources, finance, and operations play pivotal roles in Optiver’s success. These positions assist traders and technologists in making informed decisions. There are several key roles to consider, including:
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Human Resources (HR) Specialists: Responsible for talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development.
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Finance & Accounting Professionals: Manage financial planning, budgeting, and regulatory compliance.
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Market Operations Analysts: Manage trade settlements, trade reconciliations, and post-trade analysis for trading desks.
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Strategy & Business Development Managers: Identify growth opportunities, analyze competitive landscapes, and expand Optiver’s global footprint.
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Recruitment & Talent Acquisition Specialists: Hire top-tier talent in trading, technology, and research.
6. Internship & Graduate Programs
Optiver offers structured internship and graduate programs to develop future trading and technology leaders. In these programs, you will gain hands-on training, mentorship, and extensive experience in:
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Exercising risk management and simulations in trading.
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Algorithmic trading and quantitative modeling.
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Developing software and infrastructure.
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Solving real-world financial market problems.
A full-time job offer after an internship is a great way for students and recent graduates to begin a career at Optiver.
How to Land a Job at Optiver
The hiring process at Optiver is highly competitive, but if you approach it correctly, you are more likely to succeed.
1. Strong Academic Background
Optiver typically hires candidates with degrees in STEM fields such as mathematics, computer science, physics, and engineering. A strong quantitative mindset and exceptional problem-solving skills can also help a candidate succeed. Traders and business developers may also be considered if they have finance or economics backgrounds.
2. Sharpen Your Technical Skills
Coding skills in Python, C++, or Java are essential for tech and quant positions. A solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and probability is also essential. Participating in coding competitions and becoming familiar with high-frequency trading technologies are all good ways for candidates to demonstrate their abilities.
3. Excel in Problem-Solving and Mental Math
As a trader, Optiver places a heavy emphasis on problem-solving skills and mental math. Practice brain teasers, probability puzzles, and quick calculations to gain an edge. In preparation for Optiver’s assessments, online platforms that offer quantitative aptitude and logic tests can be helpful.
4. Understand Financial Markets
Having some knowledge of market mechanics, trading strategies, and financial instruments can set you apart even if you don’t have previous finance experience. By reading trading books, following financial news, and practicing simulated trading exercises, you can gain this knowledge.
5. Prepare for the Recruitment Process
Optiver’s hiring process generally includes:
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Online Assessments: These typically test numerical reasoning, logic, and programming skills.
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Technical Interviews: Focus on coding, probability, and algorithmic problem-solving.
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Behavioral Interviews: Assess your motivation, teamwork, and ability to handle high-pressure situations.
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Case Studies & Trading Simulations: Especially for trading roles, candidates may be asked to participate in mock trading sessions.
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Final Onsite Rounds: Candidates participate in coding challenges, real-world problem-solving scenarios, and strategy discussions with senior professionals.
6. Network with Current Employees
Reaching out to current or former Optiver employees through LinkedIn or networking events can provide valuable insights and improve your chances of getting noticed. Attending finance and tech career fairs, participating in trading competitions, and engaging with Optiver’s recruiters at university events can also be beneficial.
7. Apply Strategically
Be sure to highlight your analytical abilities, technical expertise, and problem-solving abilities in your resume and cover letter. You can make your application stand out by demonstrating a passion for trading and technology. Please provide concrete examples of your past achievements in quantitative projects, algorithmic trading, and competitive programming.
Conclusion
Optiver offers rewarding career opportunities for traders, technology enthusiasts, and quantitative researchers. A candidate must have strong analytical skills, experience in the financial markets, and knowledge of the firm’s policies before being considered for entry into the firm.
With these steps in mind, you can have a better chance of landing a position at Optiver and kicking off your career in finance.
Apply for Optiver’s open roles today if you’re ready to take on the challenge!
