Lead Software Engineer

Nasdaq; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with employer match

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Student loan repayment up to $10k

Company paid life and disability

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Nasdaq in Philadelphia is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to design, develop, and maintain real-time derivatives market systems. You will mentor engineers and ensure high-throughput, low-latency performance while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

You will bring 8–10+ years of Java development experience, a Master’s degree in a related field, and strong problem-solving and communication skills. The role supports a hybrid in-office schedule, with the possibility of flexible arrangements

Qualifications

• Masters or equivalent in Computer Science or related field.
• 8–10+ years of professional software development experience.
• Strong proficiency in Java programming and object-oriented design principles.
• Proven ability to work independently, solve complex problems, and deliver high-quality code.
• Clear communication skills with experience in collaborative, fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain real-time trading systems that support mission-critical business operations.
• Review system requirements and translate them into scalable, reliable software solutions.
• Code, test, debug, and implement software across the full development lifecycle.
• Mentor team members in their work relative to designing, coding, testing and/or customizing software solutions to meet requirements.
• Champion continuous improvement in system performance and efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure applications meet rigorous performance and security standards.
• Exercise innovative thinking, design and delivery of competitive software solutions.
• Stay up to date on technology trends and the competitive landscape, incorporating insights into solution design.
• Provide a deep domain and industry experience and expertise to design and develop creative solutions.

Skills

Java

OO design

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's degree in CS or related

Tools

AWS

Cloud platforms

AI/ML technologies

Job description

As a Lead Software Engineer reporting to the VP - Software Engineering, you’ll play a critical role in developing and maintaining the technology that powers Nasdaq's Derivatives Market System. You’ll work on real-time, mission-critical platforms that demand high throughput, minimal latency, and exceptional reliability.

You’ll thrive in this position if you're detail-oriented, passionate about solving complex technical challenges, and excited to work in a high-performance environment where precision and innovation drive global markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain real-time trading systems that support mission-critical business operations.
• Review system requirements and translate them into scalable, reliable software solutions.
• Code, test, debug, and implement software across the full development lifecycle.
• Mentor team members in their work relative to designing, coding, testing and/or customizing software solutions to meet requirements.
• Champion continuous improvement in system performance and efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure applications meet rigorous performance and security standards.
• Exercise innovative thinking, design and delivery of competitive software solutions.
• Stay up to date on technology trends and the competitive landscape, incorporating insights into solution design.
• Provide a deep domain and industry experience and expertise to design and develop creative solutions.

Required Qualifications

• A Masters' Degree or double degree qualified in a discipline related to Computer Science and our industry; or equivalent work experience.
• 8-10+ years of professional software development experience.
• Strong proficiency in Java programming and object-oriented design principles.
• Proven ability to work independently, solve complex problems, and deliver high-quality code.
• Clear communication skills with experience working in collaborative, fast-paced environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with high-performance, low-latency, mission-critical systems.
• Familiarity with AWS, cloud platforms, or AI/ML technologies.

This position will be located in Philadelphia and offers the opportunity for a hybrid work environment at least 3 days a week in-office, subject to change, providing flexibility and accessibility for qualified candidates.

This posting is for an existing vacancy within Nasdaq.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future; Nasdaq will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa)

Come as You Are

Nasdaq is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives, experiences, and identities are valued and celebrated.

We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation throughout the hiring process.

What We Offer

We’re proud to offer a competitive rewards package that is meaningful, recognizes the unique needs of our employees and their families and incentivizes employees for their contribution to Nasdaq's overall success.

In addition to base salary, Nasdaq offers significant other compensation (annual bonus/commissions and equity), benefits, and opportunity for growth. Exact compensation may vary based on several job-related factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to: skill set, experience, education/training, business needs and market demands.

Nasdaq's programs and rewards are intended to allow our employees to:

• Secure Wealth: 401(k) program with 6% employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Program with 15% discount, Student loan repayment program up to $10k, Company paid life and disability plans, Generous paid time off
• Prioritize Health: Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, Health spending account with employer contribution, Paid flex days to support mental wellbeing, Gym membership discounts
• Care for Family: Hybrid home/office schedule (for most positions), Paid parental leave, Fertility benefits, Paid bereavement leave
• Connect with Community: Company gift matching program, Employee resource groups, Paid volunteer days
• Grow Career: Education Assistance Program, Robust job skills training and Professional development opportunities

For more information, visit Nasdaq Benefits & Rewards Career page.