Graduate Software Engineer, Sydney

Mako; Sydney; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible leave

Annual discretionary bonus

Healthcare allowance

Insurance life and salary continuance

Employee wellbeing guidance

Novated car leasing

Parental leave scheme

Mako foundation involvement

Job summary

Mako invites graduates to join its Graduate Engineer Programme, offering structured training, mentorship, and hands-on work on a fast-paced real-time trading system written in C++ for Linux. You will collaborate with traders, hardware engineers and support staff in a supportive, Agile environment.

Participants gain experience across algorithms, pricing models, and connectivity to major platforms while developing in modern software practices and CI pipelines.

Qualifications

• A strong understanding of algorithms and data structures.
• Knowledge of at least one mainstream OOP language such as C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Go.
• A degree in an STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) based subject or equivalent.
• An interest in financial markets.
• It would be excellent if you had: C++, Asynchronous and multi-threaded programming, Clean, readable, testable code, Networks and network programming, Understanding of computer architecture and performance of code.

Skills

Algorithms

OOP languages

STEM degree

Interest in markets

Async/multithreaded

Networking basics

Education

STEM degree

Tools

Python

shell scripting

CMake

Jenkins

PCAP/Wireshark

C

compilers

Job description

We are looking for inquisitive problem solvers to join our team as a Graduate Engineer

Mako is a leading options market maker with a global trading footprint. It has been at the forefront of options market making for 20 years, from the open outcry trading pits to screen trading and automated algorithmic execution strategies that are driving the future of the industry.

From offices in London, Amsterdam, Dublin, Singapore, Sydney, Brisbane and Chengdu, Mako offers best in class liquidity solutions across Equities, Fixed Income, Commodities and FX derivatives markets and prides itself in its entrepreneurial, collaborative and philanthropic culture.

A Unique Programme for Aspiring Engineer

Mako's Graduate Engineer Programme is an immersive and structured programme specially designed to give our graduates the opportunity to develop in-depth knowledge and experience of the industry. As a graduate you will be a part of a structured training program, be assigned a mentor, and have the opportunity to work on meaningful tasks that plug directly into our trading system.

What we need from you

• A strong understanding of algorithms and data structures
• Knowledge of at least one mainstream OOP language such as C++, C#, Java, Java Script, Go
• A degree in an STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) based subject or equivalent.
• An interest in financial markets
• It would be excellent if you had:
• C++
• Experience of asynchronous and multi-threaded programming
• An appreciation for clean, readable, testable code
• A good understanding of networks and network programming
• An understanding of computer architecture and how it relates to the performance of your code

Experience with the following tools and languages is beneficial:

• Python, shell scripting, CMake, Jenkins, PCAP/Wireshark, C, static analysers, a range of compilers.

We are Mako

At Mako, we are welcoming, inclusive and collaborative. We work fast and smart in a supportive and dress-down environment that allows colleagues to be themselves and achieve great things. We uphold the principles of a flat structure that offers unrivalled engagement with senior leadership and career development opportunities. We have a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Flexible leave
• Annual discretionary bonus
• Healthcare allowance
• Comprehensive insurance benefits for life and salary continuance
• Employee wellbeing guidance and support
• Novated car leasing
• Generous paid parental leave scheme
• Opportunity to become involved in the rewarding work of the Mako foundation

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

Work in a Fast Paced Real-Time Engineer Environment

From the outset, Graduate Engineers are introduced to the team and its duties. Our low latency derivatives trading system is written in-house. It is implemented in C++ and runs on Linux.

The Front Office engineering team is responsible for designing and implementing all aspects of Mako's proprietary trading system. This includes algorithms, pricing models, user interfaces and connectivity to most major derivatives venues and third-party trading platforms.

Learn From Highly Experienced Engineers.

As a Graduate Engineer, you will be mentored by some of the most experienced professionals in the business, working in pragmatic, self-organizing teams that collaborate closely with traders, hardware engineers, and support staff.

Our teams use an Agile development model to deliver tangible business value. By leveraging modern software practices and continuous integration pipelines, our engineers rapidly transform trading ideas into profitable automated strategies.

We provide graduates with dedicated mentorship and comprehensive training in both technical and soft skills, preparing you to partner effectively with stakeholders and solve complex trading challenges. Technology is central to everything we do, and our teams are composed of knowledgeable, motivated, and friendly problem-solvers who thrive in Mako's highly supportive and collaborative culture.