Equity Trader - Execution & Data Analytics

TIAA; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

TIAA seeks an experienced equity trader to join the trading desk in Los Angeles. The role emphasizes data analytics, electronic execution, and AI-based platforms to optimize client outcomes.

You will analyze execution data, build tools in Python/SQL and Excel, and collaborate with technology and quant teams to refine algo strategies. Required 3+ years in direct equity trading, proficiency with EMS/OMS, and strong communication skills to convey data-driven insights to clients and internal

Qualifications

• 3+ years direct equity execution and trading experience.
• Hands-on experience with electronic execution platforms and algo strategies (VWAP, TWAP, POV).
• Working knowledge of TCA metrics and benchmarks.
• Advanced Excel with macros/VBA for modeling and automation.
• Programming in Python/SQL/VBA with tool/dashboard development.

Responsibilities

• Execute equity trades across venues using manual and algorithmic strategies.
• Analyze execution quality with TCA data and benchmarks.
• Build and maintain tools to automate data analysis and reporting.
• Evaluate AI-driven or algorithmic tools for execution processes.
• Communicate results and insights clearly to clients and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with tech and quant teams to refine algo strategies.

Skills

Equity trading

Electronic execution

Data analytics

Python/SQL

Excel macros

AI tools in trading

Client communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field

Tools

EMS/OMS platforms

API connectivity

Trading dashboards

Job description

We are seeking an experienced equity trader to join our trading desk, with a strong emphasis on data analytics, electronic execution, and the use of computational and AI-driven tools to optimize trading performance. This role is ideal for a trader who combines market execution expertise with technical fluency — someone who can analyze execution data, build tools to improve workflow efficiency, and leverage algorithmic and AI-based platforms to drive better outcomes for clients.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Execute equity trades across multiple venues, using both manual and algorithmic strategies based on order characteristics and market conditions
• Analyze execution quality using TCA data and benchmarks, identifying trends and opportunities to improve performance
• Build and maintain tools (Excel macros, Python/SQL scripts) to automate data analysis, reporting, and workflow efficiency
• Evaluate and help integrate AI-driven or algorithmic tools into the desk’s execution process
• Partner with clients and internal stakeholders to communicate execution results and data-driven insights clearly and effectively
• Collaborate with technology and quant teams to refine algo strategies and execution tools based on data findings

Educational Requirements

• University (Degree) Preferred

Work Experience

• 3+ Years Required; 5+ Years Preferred

Physical Requirements

• Physical Requirements: Sedentary Work

Career Level

7IC

Required Qualifications

• 3 years of direct equity execution and trading experience
• Hands-on experience with electronic execution platforms and algorithmic trading strategies (e.g., VWAP, TWAP, POV, liquidity-seeking algos)
• Working knowledge of TCA (Transaction Cost Analysis) metrics and benchmarks (e.g., arrival price, implementation shortfall, VWAP) and the ability to apply this data to improve execution decisions
• Advanced Excel proficiency, including macros/VBA, for building models and automating recurring analysis
• Programming proficiency in Python, SQL, or VBA, with demonstrated experience building tools, scripts, or dashboards to support trading or data analysis

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field (Engineering, Computer Science, Math, or related discipline)
• Experience applying AI or machine learning tools to trading workflows (e.g., predictive analytics, pattern recognition in execution data, AI-assisted algo selection or parameter tuning)
• Familiarity with building or customizing dashboards/visualizations (e.g., Python libraries, Power BI, Tableau) to communicate execution performance to internal stakeholders or clients
• Knowledge of US equity market structure and relevant regulations
• Experience with EMS/OMS platforms and API-based connectivity to trading systems
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with experience managing client relationships and explaining technical/data-driven insights to non-technical stakeholders
• Ability to integrate and contribute within a team-oriented environment

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring ordinance and the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

Related Skills

Communication, Consultative Communication, Continuous Improvement Mindset, Data Analysis, Due Diligence, Equity Trading, Executive Presence, Financial Markets, Inspires Others, Market/Industry Dynamics, Relationship Management, Trading Best Execution

Anticipated Posting End Date:

2026-10-13

Base Pay Range: $150,000/yr - $185,000/yr

Actual base salary may vary based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience, time in role, base salary of internal peers, prior performance, business sector, and geographic location. In addition to base salary, the competitive compensation package may include, depending on the role, participation in an incentive program linked to performance (for example, annual discretionary incentive programs, non-annual sales incentive plans, or other non-annual incentive plans).

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Company Overview

Every worker deserves a secure retirement. For more than 100 years, TIAA has delivered it for millions of people. Founded to help educators retire with dignity, today weʼre a market-leading retirement company fueled by world-class asset management. But weʼre not just another legacy financial services firm. Weʼre fighting harder than ever before for our clients and the many Americans who need us.

Our Culture of Impact

At TIAA, we’re on a mission to build on our 100+ year legacy of delivering for our clients while evolving to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We equip our associates with future-focused skills and AI tools that enable us to advance our mission. Together, we are fighting to ensure a more secure financial future for all and for generations to come. We are guided by our values: Champion Our People, Be Client Obsessed, Lead with Integrity, Own It, and Win As One. They influence every decision we make and how we work together to serve our clients every day. We thrive in a collaborative in-office environment where teams work across organizational boundaries with shared purpose, accelerating innovation and delivering meaningful results. Our workplace brings together TIAA and Nuveen’s entrepreneurial spirit, where we work hard and work together to create lasting impact. Here, every associate can grow through meaningful learning experiences and development pathways—because when our people succeed, our impact on clients’ lives grows stronger.

Benefits and Total Rewards

The organization is committed to making financial well-being possible for its clients, and is equally committed to the well-being of our associates. That’s why we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to make a positive difference in the lives of our associates and their loved ones. Our benefits include a superior retirement program and highly competitive health, wellness and work life offerings that can help you achieve and maintain your best possible physical, emotional and financial well-being. To learn more about your benefits, please review our Benefits Summary.

Equal Opportunity

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. TIAA does not discriminate against any candidate or employee on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.

Our full EEO & Non-Discrimination statement is on our careers home page, and you can read more about your rights and view government notices here.

Accessibility Support

TIAA offers support for those who need assistance with our online application process to provide an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers, including individuals with disabilities.

If you are a U.S. applicant and desire a reasonable accommodation to complete a job application please use one of the below options to contact our accessibility support team:

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Drug and Smoking Policy

TIAA maintains a drug-free and smoke/free workplace.

Privacy Notices

For Applicants of TIAA, Nuveen and Affiliates residing in US (other than California), click here.

For Applicants of TIAA, Nuveen and Affiliates residing in California, please click here.

For Applicants of TIAA Global Capabilities, click here.

For Applicants of Nuveen residing in Europe and APAC, please click here.