Quantitative Trader Intern (Summer 2026 - Chicago)

Optiver

  • Chicago, IL
  • Training
  • Full-time
  • 2 months ago
As a Quantitative Trader Intern at Optiver, you'll spend your summer embedded in the fast-paced environment of our trading floor, learning from industry experts.Through a blend of in-depth education sessions, simulated trading that replicates real market conditions, and an impactful research project, you'll gain deep insight into how markets move and how traders think. You'll test your ideas, sharpen your decision-making, and collaborate with peers and mentors to solve real market challenges.By the end of the 10-week internship, you'll be equipped with the foundational skills and knowledge required to succeed as a Quantitative Trader at a top global trading firm.What you'll do:Our internship, which demands quick thinking, a critical mindset, and decisive action, offers one of the closest experiences to real trading you can get. Led by a team of former Optiver traders, our in-house education program gives you the opportunity to:
  • Deep dive into trading fundamentals, from theoretical concepts to financial markets, trading strategies, and cutting-edge technology.
  • Develop your trading skills and strategies in a realistic, simulated trading environment that closely replicates live markets.
  • Learn directly from experienced traders, gaining exposure to various trading desks and experiencing the financial markets first-hand.
  • Push your limits and accelerate your growth in a fascinating and high-performing environment.
What you'll get:You'll join a culture of collaboration and excellence, surrounded by curious thinkers and creative problem-solvers. Motivated by a passion for continuous improvement, you'll thrive in a supportive, high-performing environment alongside talented colleagues, collectively tackling some of the toughest challenges in the financial markets.In addition, you'll receive:
  • The opportunity to work alongside best-in-class professionals from over 40 different countries
  • The opportunity to earn a return internship or full-time offer in Chicago, Austin, New York City, or Amsterdam based on performance
  • A highly-competitive internship compensation package
  • Optiver-covered flights, living accommodations, and commuting stipends
  • Extensive office perks, including breakfast, lunch and snacks, regular social events, clubs, sporting leagues and more
Who you are:
  • A student pursuing a bachelor's, master's, or PhD in a STEM field
  • On track to graduate between December 2026 to June 2028, with sophomore standing or higher
  • Strong quantitative and logical reasoning skills
  • Interested in strategic games or other competitive activities
  • Experienced in programming or scripting in Python is a plus
  • Affinity for research is a plus
Who we are:At Optiver, our mission is to improve the market by injecting liquidity, providing accurate pricing, increasing transparency and stabilising the market no matter the conditions. With a focus on continuous improvement, we prioritise safeguarding the health and efficiency of the markets for all participants. As one of the largest market making institutions, we are a respected partner on 100+ exchanges across the globe.Our differences are our edge. Optiver does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, or other legally protected characteristics.*We accept one application per role per year. If you have previously applied to this position during this season and have been unsuccessful, you can reapply once the next recruitment season begins in 2026.

Optiver