Associate Engineer 2026

Chicago Trading Company (CTC) is a premier proprietary trading firm specializing in options market making. Our collaborative culture fuels innovation in quantitative research systematic trading strategies and cutting-edge trading technology. For over three decades CTC has provided critical liquidity across derivatives exchanges worldwide - making them fairer more transparent and more efficient.

We strive to be the most innovative firm in the industry today tomorrow and long into the future while upholding ethical excellence. We believe that CTC makes a positive impact on the markets the lives of our employees and all the communities to which we belong. Started in 1995 by a team of forward-thinking Traders we are proud to call ourselves an industry leader that keeps making markets and each other better.

Are you excited to play an important role in building next generation trading infrastructure and applications Do you thrive in an innovative environment If so we encourage you to consider CTC!

The Role:

We are looking for talented and motivated software engineers to join our engineering teams in designing coding and testing sophisticated trading tools and risk applications. These distributed real-time systems will require you to have a deep understanding of computer science concepts strong software development skills and methodology and effective communication and collaboration abilities. Software development cycles at CTC are short and releases of proprietary software are this fast-paced and dynamic team environment our engineers quickly see the results of their effort and the impact it has on our businesses. Engineers will also have exposure to trading through our combined trading and technology curriculum which includes a shadow on one of our trading desks.

What it means to be successful:

• You can apply understanding of data structures algorithms and multi-threading concepts to real-world problems
• You are curious about options trading pricing and risk management. No prior knowledge or experience in finance is needed
• You are highly motivated humble and collaborative
• You thrive in a team-based environment filled with driven people that value a healthy work-life balance
• You effectively communicate ideas both written and verbal that showcase your analytical skills
• You seek constructive feedback to grow your capabilities

What Were Looking For:

• Strong foundation in an object oriented programming language gained through coursework internships or entry-level positions (C preferred)
• Completed or pursuing a Bachelors or Masters degree in Computer Science Computer Engineering or a similar field
• A proven record of success (academics awards etc.)
• Willing to relocate to Chicago IL or New York NY

Why should you consider a career at CTC

• Have a place in a fast-growing industry-leading global technology company
• Excellent growth potential
• Opportunity to work with and learn from forward-thinking leaders in our industry
• Collaborative team environment that rewards contributions innovative thinking and solution-orientation
• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package including free breakfast and lunch (and healthy snacks of course!) as well as onsite biometric testing and fitness center membership

Compensation

The salary range for this role is listed below. This role is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. The discretionary bonus will be dependent upon the individuals skills experience qualifications and firm performance.

Salary Range

$175000 - $175000 USD

Our Commitment to Diversity Equity and Inclusion

At CTC we aim to cultivate a workplace that celebrates diversity and each person feels included engaged and empowered. Where each of us feels we belong. We are committed to having a diverse workforce and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. CTC does not discriminate on the basis of race religion color national origin sex gender gender expression sexual orientation age marital status veteran status or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process to perform crucial job functions and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to apply for a position please contact us at Note that emails sent to this email account for non-disability related issues such as following up on an application will not receive a response.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Information submitted by job applicants may be subject to review and analysis by automated systems including Artificial Intelligence (AI) as part of the recruitment process. Such systems are utilized to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our hiring procedures. Applicants are advised that any information provided may be evaluated by AI tools to ensure an equitable and thorough assessment.

Required Experience:

IC