Graduate Software Engineer

Mako; London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading options market maker is seeking a Graduate Engineer in London. The program offers structured training and rotation through software teams. Candidates should have a strong understanding of algorithms, knowledge of an OOP language, and an interest in financial markets. The role provides exposure to a high-speed engineering environment and collaborative culture.

Benefits

Flexible leave and working policies

Private health and dental insurance

Generous pension scheme

Free access to the gym

Employee wellbeing guidance

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures.
• Proficient in at least one OOP language.
• An interest in financial markets.

Responsibilities

• Participate in a structured training program with rotations.
• Work on tasks that integrate with the trading system.
• Engage with teams including software and trading.

Skills

Understanding of algorithms and data structures

Knowledge of OOP languages (C++, C#, Java, etc.)

Interest in financial markets

Education

Upper second class degree in a STEM subject

Tools

Python

Shell scripting

CMake

Jenkins

Job description

Overview

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 and 20 years of experience across open outcry pits to automated algorithmic execution. We operate from offices in London, Amsterdam, Dublin, Singapore, Sydney, Brisbane and Chengdu, offering liquidity solutions across Equities, Fixed Income, Commodities and FX derivatives markets, with an entrepreneurial, collaborative and philanthropic culture.

A Unique Programme for Aspiring Engineer

Mako's Graduate Engineer Programme is an immersive and structured programme designed to give graduates in-depth knowledge and experience of the industry. As a graduate you will join a structured training program that includes rotations through our Software team and desk rotations. You will be assigned a mentor, and after an initial training period you will work on meaningful tasks that plug directly into our trading system.

What We Need From You

Most of our engineers have a degree in a STEM subject and share a pragmatic, problem-solving mind-set and strong quantitative skills. In addition, we are looking for:

• A strong understanding of algorithms and data structures
• Knowledge of at least one mainstream OOP language such as C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Go
• An upper second class degree in an STEM 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

Benefits

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 a flat structure with engagement with senior leadership and career development opportunities. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Flexible leave and flexible working policies
• Private health and dental insurance
• Generous pension scheme
• Free access to the Mako gym
• Employee wellbeing guidance and support
• 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, implemented in C++ and runs on Linux. The engineering team designs and implements all aspects of our proprietary trading algorithms, pricing models, user interfaces and exchange connectivity to major derivatives venues.

Learn From Highly Experienced Engineers

You will work closely with Senior Engineers, learning from experienced professionals. Teams collaborate with traders, hardware and support teams. They are pragmatic and self-organising, delivering work iteratively while following best software practices, including unit testing, continuous integration and peer review. The wider organisation is supportive and collaborative; technology is at the centre of what we do.

Recruitment Process

We outline how the recruitment process will look to help you anticipate each stage:

• Online test after you apply; please complete it in a calm environment.
• If you pass the initial test and fit the job profile, you will be asked to schedule a first-stage interview with HR (check spam/junk folders).
• If successful in the first round, you will complete an online technical coding test.
• Successful candidates will have two rounds of live coding tests (focus on C++ for those with C++ skills).
• Final stage interview will be a panel with Senior Engineers; please check spam/junk folders for invites.
• Offers are extended to successful candidates after all interviews are completed.

If you require any support or adjustments with the application process or have any questions about the application process, please contact.