Machine Learning Researcher

Optiver is seeking Machine Learning Researchers to join our High Frequency Trading Team. Our HFT team is comprised of Researchers and Software Engineers who focus on designing, improving and executing trading strategies using machine learning. We’re looking for someone to create and improve machine learning models, conduct signal/alpha research, and deliver improved predictions from which to run trading strategies. You’d work on a close-knit team that applies quantitative expertise and scientific training to solve tough, interdisciplinary problems.

Who we are:

At Optiver, our mission is to improve the market by injecting liquidity, providing accurate pricing, increasing transparency and stabilising the market no matter the conditions. With a focus on continuous improvement, we prioritise safeguarding the health and efficiency of the markets for all participants. As one of the largest market making institutions, we are a respected partner on 100+ exchanges across the globe.

What you’ll do:

We're looking for Machine Learning Researchers who will be versatile, flexible and creative in building and fine-tuning our ML models. As a Researcher, you’ll work on complex, high-impact projects that result in instant feedback for both your team and for the business. 

• Conduct research to improve our price forecasting models using machine learning on historical data
• Collaborate with peers in reviewing research and solving problems
• Improve the research workflow to facilitate rapid innovation and increase the productivity of the team
• Participate in strategic discussions to help set the direction of our business growth
• See the direct impact of your work in production 

Who you are:

• 2+ years of industry experience building applied ML models
• Experience with bringing research to production on real-world applications
• Proven experience in machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, reinforcement learning or a related field
• Bachelors, Masters, and/or PhD in computer science, machine learning, statistics, mathematics, physics, or a related STEM field
• Experience using Python libraries for data science and machine learning research
• Experience in computationally intensive research on very large data sets
• Thrive in a collaborative research environment
• Strong publication record in relevant conferences and journals is a plus
• This is an experienced role - current students and/or recent graduates might consider applying to our Graduate Quantitative Researcher or Quantitative Researcher Intern positions listed on our website

What you’ll get:

You’ll join a culture of collaboration and excellence, surrounded by curious thinkers and creative problem-solvers. Motivated by a passion for continuous improvement, you’ll thrive in a supportive, high-performing environment alongside talented colleagues, collectively tackling some of the toughest challenges in the financial markets.

In addition, you’ll receive:

• The opportunity to work alongside best-in-class professionals from over 40 different countries

• A highly competitive compensation package

• Global profit-sharing pool and performance-based bonus structure

• 401(k) match up to 50%

• Comprehensive health, mental, dental, vision, disability, and life coverage

• 25 paid vacation days alongside market holidays

• Extensive office perks, including breakfast, lunch and snacks, regular social events, clubs, sporting leagues and more

At Optiver, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. Optiver recruits, employs, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, or other legally protected characteristics.