Software Engineer - C++

Akuna Capital; Illinois; On-site; USD 145,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary bonus

Comprehensive benefits package

Employer-paid medical, dental, vision

Job summary

Akuna Capital seeks a Software Engineer in Illinois to join our engineering team, building our proprietary options market‑making trading platform. You will design, implement, test, and deliver high‑performance systems in C++, Linux, and Python.

You should have 3+ years of modern C++ experience (2+ years with C++20/23), strong knowledge of data structures, distributed systems, multithreading, and OO design, plus a BS in CS/Engineering/Math. Competitive pay and benefits.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience developing performant, scalable applications in modern C++.
• Experience with Linux and Python.
• Understanding of data structures, algorithms, distributed systems, multi‑threading, and asynchronous execution.
• Object‑oriented design and programming experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Math, or equivalent.
• Ability to take on projects and drive them to completion.
• Familiarity with trading systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain mission‑critical trading systems.
• Plan, design, and implement efficient Linux services using modern C++.
• Contribute to software using Agile methodologies and participate in code reviews.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to solve complex problems.

Skills

C++

Linux

Python

Distributed systems

Multithreading

Asynchronous execution

Object-oriented design

Algorithms

Data structures

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Math, or equivalent

Job description

About Akuna:

Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm with a strong focus on collaboration, cutting-edge technology, data driven solutions, and automation. We specialize in providing liquidity as an options market maker – meaning we are committed to providing competitive quotes that we are willing to both buy and sell. To do this successfully, we design and implement our own low latency technologies, trading strategies, and mathematical models.

Our Founding Partners first conceptualized Akuna in their hometown of Sydney. They opened the firm’s first office in 2011 in the heart of the derivatives industry and the options capital of the world – Chicago. Today, Akuna is proud to operate from additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, London and Singapore.

What you’ll do as a Software Engineer at Akuna:

Akuna is looking for motivated self-starters to join our growing engineering team and contribute to the build-out of our proprietary options market‑making trading platform. You will focus on analysis, design, implementation, testing and delivery of Akuna’s trading system using the latest technologies. Successful candidates will work closely with an industry‑leading team of options Traders who participate fully in the design and ongoing enhancements to our proprietary trading platform. In this role, you will:

• Design and build mission‑critical and complex trading systems

• Plan, design, and implement efficient, flexible, and resilient Linux services using modern C++ technologies

• Build software using Agile methodologies

• Participate in design sessions and code reviews

• Work on cross‑functional teams to troubleshoot and solve complex problems

Qualities that make great candidates:

• 3+ years of experience developing performant, scalable applications in modern C++ (and at least 2 years with C++ 20 or 23; template metaprogramming a plus)

• Experience with Linux and Python required

• Understanding of data structures, algorithms, distributed systems, multi‑threading, and asynchronous execution

• Object‑oriented design and programming experience

• Ability to take on projects and drive them through to completion in a timely manner

• Familiarity with trading and trading systems is a plus

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Math, or equivalent

• The ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including the ability to quickly and accurately respond and/or solve math and coding problems are essential functions of the role

In addition to technical skillsets, Akuna values the unique perspectives people can bring to the table to collaboratively solve complex problems and drive Akuna forward. We want everyone to feel empowered to apply. We welcome your application and encourage you to take the first steps toward your future with us!

Please note that level/title, as well as team placement, will be determined upon the conclusion of the interview process. If you are a current student or recent graduate, please take a look at our Entry Level and Intern positions.

In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the minimum base salary starts at $145,000. Exact compensation offered may vary based on many factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and skill set. This role is also eligible for a discretionary performance bonus as part of the total compensation package and includes a comprehensive benefits package that may encompass employer‑paid medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid time off, and other benefits. The minimum base salary herein was determined in good faith by Akuna Capital LLC.