Equity Derivatives Quant/Trader

Job Description

Analyst/Associate – Equity Derivatives Quant/Trader

Group Overview:

The Equity Derivatives team focuses on developing and executing systematic and discretionary trading strategies across listed and OTC options. The group works closely with trading, technology, and risk functions to design models, build tools, and manage risk across global markets.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly analytical and technically strong Analyst to join our Equity Derivatives Quant/Trading team. The ideal candidate will have a strong quantitative background, experience with systematic research, and a passion for markets. This individual will contribute to model development, options pricing analytics, back testing, and the build-out of proprietary trading and risk infrastructure.

MUST BE A 2024 GRADUTE OR EARLIER TO APPLY

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and enhance pricing models for equity and index options, including Greeks and volatility surface dynamics.
• Conduct quantitative research to identify and test systematic trading opportunities across derivatives markets.
• Build and maintain Python- and SQL-based tools for research, trading automation, and risk management.
• Design and execute robust back tests to validate signals and strategies.
• Assist traders in analyzing market conditions, trade structures, and risk exposures.
• Leverage statistical concepts and machine learning/AI techniques to improve efficiency and decision-making.
• Develop and maintain proprietary analytics to support portfolio and risk monitoring.
• Collaborate with technology teams to ensure seamless integration of models and tools.
• Operate in a fast-paced environment with a high degree of autonomy and accountability.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related quantitative discipline.
• 2-6 years full‑time experience in a trading or quantitative research/development role.
• Strong programming skills with Python and SQL; ability to write clean, efficient, and production‑ready code.
• Solid foundation in probability, statistics, and stochastic processes.
• Deep understanding of options pricing models, Greeks, volatility modeling, and market microstructure.
• Experience in quantitative research, systematic strategy development, and back testing frameworks.
• Ability to leverage AI/ML tools to automate workflows or enhance research.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and proactively.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced trading environment with high ownership and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across functions.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have):

• Experience with derivative risk systems or real‑time trading tools.
• Familiarity with C++, Java, or other compiled languages.
• Exposure to equities, volatility products, or multi‑asset derivatives.

Primary Location New York, NY Full Time Salary Range of $100,000-$150,000.

About Us

Jefferies is a leading global, full-service investment banking and capital markets firm that provides advisory, sales and trading, research, and wealth and asset management services. With more than 40 offices around the world, we offer insights and expertise to investors, companies, and governments. At Jefferies, we are committed to building a culture that provides opportunities for all employees regardless of our differences and supports a workforce that is reflective of the communities where we work and live. As a result, we are able to pool our collective insights and intelligence to provide fresh and innovative thinking for our clients. Jefferies is committed to creating and sustaining a workforce that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds to apply. Our employment decisions are made without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, pregnancy, age, medical condition, physical or mental disability, marital status, domestic partner status, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, genetic information, reproductive health decisions, or any other factor protected by applicable law. We are committed to hiring the most qualified applicants and complying with all federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity laws. As part of this commitment, Jefferies will extend reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities, as required by applicable law. The salary offered will take into consideration an individual’s experience level and qualifications. In addition to salary, Jefferies Financial Group is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to eligible, full-time employees or part-time employees, who are scheduled to work at least 30 hours or more per week, including an annual discretionary incentive and retention bonus, competitive employee benefits, including: medical, dental & vision coverage; 401(k); life, accident, and disability insurance; and wellness programs. Jefferies also offers paid time off packages that include planned time off (e.g., vacation), unplanned time off (e.g., sick leave), and paid holidays, and for full-time employees, paid parental leave.