Senior Systematic Options Quant Researcher

L.Knighton; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

L.Knighton invites applications for a Systematic Quantitative Researcher / Options Quant in Chicago to work directly with the Head of Trading on researching, developing and enhancing systematic options trading strategies.

This genuinely hybrid role covers the full research lifecycle—from idea generation and alpha research to implementation and strategy development—with potential for increasing ownership and independence over time.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience at a prop trading firm or fund.
• Experience developing and validating systematic trading strategies.
• Strong statistical and mathematical modelling skills.
• Advanced Python programming skills.
• Strong background in options and volatility.

Responsibilities

• Research and develop systematic trading strategies and alpha signals.
• Build, test and improve quant/vol models using Python.
• Conduct statistical analysis on large datasets.
• Develop and maintain backtesting and research infrastructure.
• Work closely with the Head of Trading to support live trading/positions.
• Analyse market behaviour and identify new trading opportunities.
• Improve research workflows, automation and data pipelines.
• Collaborate on strategy implementation and performance analysis.

Skills

Python

Options pricing

Statistics

Backtesting

Data analysis

SQL

Education

PhD or MSc in quantitative discipline

Tools

Backtesting frameworks

Job description

L.Knighton invites applications for a Systematic Quantitative Researcher / Options Quant in Chicago to work directly with the Head of Trading on researching, developing and enhancing systematic options trading strategies.

This genuinely hybrid role covers the full research lifecycle—from idea generation and alpha research to implementation and strategy development—with potential for increasing ownership and independence over time.