Graduate Software Engineer, London

Mako Trading; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible leave & working policies

Private health and dental insurance

Generous pension scheme

Free access to the Mako gym

Employee wellbeing guidance and Mako/​

Foundation involvement

Job summary

Mako Trading is seeking a Graduate Engineer to join its Software team in London, gaining hands-on production experience in a fast-paced, real-time derivatives trading environment.

You will work on core systems written in C++ and participate in a structured training programme with dedicated mentorship and exposure to production-relevant tasks, alongside formal training opportunities.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures.
• Proficiency in at least one mainstream OOP language such as C++, C#, Java, JavaScript or Go.
• Working knowledge of C++, used in live coding interviews.
• Upper second class degree in a STEM-based subject or equivalent.
• Interest in financial markets.

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing and implementing parts of Mako's low-latency derivatives trading system.
• Contribute to algorithms, pricing models, user interfaces and connectivity to major venues.
• Collaborate in an Agile, pragmatic, team-based environment with mentors and traders.

Skills

Algorithms & DS

OOP languages

C++

Education

STEM degree (2:1)

Tools

Python

Shell scripting

CMake

Jenkins

PCAP/Wireshark

C language

Static analysers

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 over 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 the 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 part of a structured training programme designed to provide you with hands-on experience and early exposure to production-relevant work within our Software team, alongside formal training and development opportunities.

What we need from you

Skills

• A strong understanding of algorithms and data structures


• Knowledge of at least one mainstream OOP language such as C++, C#, Java, JavaScript or Go


• Working knowledge of C++, as our live coding interviews are conducted in C++


• An upper second class degree in an STEM based subject or equivalent.


• An interest in financial markets

It Would Be Excellent If You Had

• 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 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 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. 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-organising 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.