software engineers

We are looking for talented and motivated software engineers to join our engineering teams in designing, coding, and testing sophisticated trading tools and risk applications. These distributed real-time systems will require you to have a deep understanding of computer science concepts, strong software development skills and methodology, and effective communication and collaboration abilities. Software development cycles at CTC are short and releases of proprietary software are frequent. In this fast-paced and dynamic team environment, our engineers quickly see the results of their effort, and the impact it has on our businesses. Engineers will also have exposure to trading through our combined trading and technology curriculum which includes a shadow on one of our trading desks., Please note: You are allowed to submit one application per position (i.e. Associate Engineer and Quant Trading Associate) during the recruiting cycle. We recommend focusing on applying for the role that aligns most closely with your skills and interests. While you can apply for more than one role, please keep in mind that each application will be assessed according to the specific requirements set for that role. The Chicago and New York job posts are the same job. Please do not apply to both. Pick one and select your location preferences in the application.

• You can apply understanding of data structures, algorithms, and multi-threading concepts to real-world problems
• You are curious about options trading, pricing and risk management. No prior knowledge or experience in finance is needed
• You are a highly motivated, humble, and collaborative team member
• Ability to thrive in a team-based environment filled with driven people who want to compete and win together
• Ability to effectively communicate ideas both written and verbally that showcase your analytical skills, * You are pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a similar technical field with Java, C++, or Python experience
• Strong foundation in an object oriented programming language gained through coursework or internships
• You will graduate between December 2026-June 2027
• You have a demonstrated record of success (academics, awards, etc.)
• Willing to relocate to Chicago, IL or New York, NY (most positions will be based in Chicago with a limited few in New York)

Why should you consider a career at CTC?

• Be part of a fast-growing, industry-leading global trading company
• Work in an environment that actively explores and applies emerging technologies - including AI - to enhance trading, engineering, and research workflows
• Opportunity to work with and learn from forward-thinking leaders in our industry
• Collaborative team environment that rewards contributions, innovative thinking, and solution-orientation
• Excellent growth potential
• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package including free breakfast and lunch (and healthy snacks of course!) as well as a fitness center membership, The salary range for this role is listed below. This role is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. The discretionary bonus will be dependent upon the individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and firm performance. Salary Range $200,000-$200,000 USD

Chicago Trading Company (CTC) is a premier proprietary trading firm specializing in options market making. Our collaborative culture fuels innovation in quantitative research, systematic trading strategies, and cutting-edge trading technology. For over three decades CTC has provided critical liquidity across derivatives exchanges worldwide - making them fairer, more transparent, and more efficient.

We strive to be the most innovative firm in the industry today, tomorrow, and long into the future while upholding ethical excellence. We believe that CTC makes a positive impact on the markets, the lives of our employees, and all the communities to which we belong. Started in 1995 by a team of forward-thinking Traders, we are proud to call ourselves an industry leader that keeps making markets and each other better.