Software Engineer - C++, Trading Strategies

Akuna Capital; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 131,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Akuna Capital is seeking a Software Engineer for the Trading Strategies Team in Chicago. You will design, implement, and deploy high-performance trading strategies using modern C++20, collaborating with Traders and Researchers to capture market opportunities with ultra-low latency.

The role emphasizes hands-on development, advanced multi-threaded and distributed systems work, and leadership across projects. A strong quantitative mindset and teamwork are essential for success.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience developing performant, scalable applications in modern C++20 and beyond.
• Experience developing trading strategies and/or a demonstrated passion for financial markets.
• Experience using data to drive decision-making.
• Significant experience with distributed systems, data structures, and algorithms.
• Strong multi-threaded/multi-core programming skills.
• Highly collaborative in nature, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Math or equivalent.
• The ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including solving math and coding problems.

Responsibilities

• Lead in the design, implementation, and deployment of trading strategies using modern C++ technologies.
• Bring deep technical knowledge in areas such as parallel programming, trading systems, networking, and performance analysis.
• Be hands-on, producing both detailed technical work and high-level architectural designs.
• Have leadership opportunities across project and team management.
• Build software using Agile methodologies and modern software best practices.
• Work directly with Traders and Researchers to create and enhance high performance, low latency trading strategies.

Skills

C++20

Trading systems

Parallel programming

Distributed systems

Multithreading

Data-driven decisions

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering/Math

Tools

Networking

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.

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 on the Trading Strategies Team at Akuna:

Akuna is looking for Software Engineers who are excited to apply their skills to low latency trading. Working directly with Traders and Researchers, you will focus on analysis, design, implementation, testing and delivery of Akuna's strategies to the market. Your goal is to develop software that incorporates vast amounts of data to drive sophisticated, ultra-fast strategies, capturing market opportunities before our competition.

In this role, you will:

• Lead in the design, implementation, and deployment of trading strategies using modern C++ technologies
• Bring deep technical knowledge in areas such as parallel programming, trading systems, networking, and performance analysis
• Be extremely hands-on, producing both detailed technical work and high-level architectural designs
• Have leadership opportunities across both project and team management
• Build software using Agile methodologies and modern software best practices
• Work directly with Traders and Researchers to create and enhance high performance, low latency trading strategies

Qualities that make great candidates:

• 3+ years of experience developing performant, scalable applications in modern C++20 and beyond
• Experience developing trading strategies and/or a demonstrated passion for financial markets
• Experience using data to drive decision-making
• Significant experience with distributed systems, data structures, and algorithms
• Solid understanding of multi-threaded/multi-core programming paradigms
• Highly collaborative in nature, with excellent written and verbal communication skills
• 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.