Quantitative Analyst - Algorithmic Trading

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive bonus

Private healthcare

Retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a highly skilled Quantitative Analyst to join a leading financial services client. You will design, back-test, and deploy quantitative trading strategies across asset classes, leveraging advanced mathematics and machine learning techniques to gain a market edge.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field, 3+ years in quantitative finance, and strong programming skills in Python, C++, or R with NumPy, Pandas, and Scikit-learn.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, CS or Financial Engineering.
• 3+ years in quantitative analysis, algorithmic trading, or related roles in banking/finance.
• Strong programming skills in Python, C++, or R with NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn.
• Deep understanding of financial markets, asset pricing, and derivatives.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test quantitative trading algorithms across asset classes.
• Develop statistical models and ML techniques to identify market patterns and predict price movements.
• Perform rigorous back-testing and performance analysis of trading strategies.
• Collaborate with portfolio managers to integrate models into workflows.
• Optimize trading strategies for efficiency, profitability, and risk management.
• Research new quantitative methods and market microstructure.
• Monitor live strategy performance and adjust as needed.
• Stay abreast of developments in quantitative finance and ML.

Skills

Python

C++

R

NumPy

Pandas

Scikit-learn

Time series analysis

Machine learning

Statistical modeling

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in quantitative field

Tools

Back-testing platforms

risk management frameworks

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading financial services firm, is actively seeking a highly skilled and innovative Quantitative Analyst to join their cutting-edge team based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape . This role is critical for developing, back-testing, and deploying sophisticated quantitative trading strategies. You will be at the forefront of financial innovation, leveraging advanced mathematical and statistical techniques to gain a competitive edge in the market. This is an exceptional career opportunity for a mathematically gifted individual passionate about financial markets and technology, to contribute to a high-performance environment. The position requires full-time dedication at our Cape Town office, fostering close collaboration and team synergy.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test quantitative trading algorithms across various asset classes.
• Develop statistical models and machine learning techniques to identify market patterns and predict price movements.
• Perform rigorous back-testing and performance analysis of trading strategies.
• Collaborate with portfolio managers and traders to integrate quantitative models into trading workflows.
• Optimize trading strategies for efficiency, profitability, and risk management.
• Conduct research on new quantitative methods and market microstructure.
• Monitor the performance of live trading strategies and make necessary adjustments.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in quantitative finance, machine learning, and relevant technologies.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in a quantitative field such as Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or Financial Engineering.
• Proven experience (3+ years) in quantitative analysis, algorithmic trading, or related roles within the banking & finance industry.
• Strong programming skills in languages like Python, C++, or R, with experience in relevant libraries (e.g., NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn).
• Deep understanding of financial markets, asset pricing, and derivatives.
• Expertise in statistical modeling, time series analysis, and machine learning algorithms.
• Experience with back-testing platforms and risk management frameworks.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication skills, capable of explaining complex quantitative concepts to non-technical audiences.
• A proactive and results-oriented mindset.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and substantial performance-based bonuses.
• Private healthcare and generous retirement savings plan.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and research resources.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth in quantitative finance.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• Regular team-building events and social activities.
• Prime office location in Cape Town with excellent amenities.