Quantitative Strategist – Credit Derivatives Products

Overview

We are seeking a Quantitative Strategist to develop alpha models for credit derivative products (e.g., single-name CDS, CDS Index, Index Options) and their interactions with bonds, ETFs, equities, and rates. This research-intensive role focuses on predictive signals across intraday to multi-day horizons, with the opportunity to expand our alpha framework and directly influence trading strategies across credit and cross-asset markets.

• Alpha Research:
  Research and develop short- and medium-horizon alpha models for credit derivative products.
• Microstructure Modeling:
  Analyze RFQ dynamics, flows, and liquidity patterns to identify market microstructure inefficiencies that can be systematically captured.
• Cross-Asset Signal Development:
  Build predictive signals linking credit indices with ETFs, equities, and futures, focusing on relationships across risk transfer markets.
• Framework Development:
  Improve and extend components of the alpha generation framework, including signal libraries, fitters, reporting pipelines, and backtesting engines.
• Backtesting & Validation:
  Design and run backtests to evaluate alpha performance across multiple horizons (intraday to multi-day), incorporating Costs, Slippage, and Liquidity effects.
• Collaboration:
  
  Work with engineers, traders, and researchers to deploy alpha models into live trading systems, monitor performance, diagnose issues, and refine models post-deployment.

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

• Proven hands-on experience in alpha research, systematic strategy development, and market microstructure analysis.
• Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field (math, physics, statistics, computer science, engineering).
• Deep knowledge of credit markets and products (Bonds, CDS, ETFs), including trading protocols such as rolls, basis trades, portfolio hedging, NAV behavior, and cross-asset liquidity dynamics.
• Proficiency in Python and data science libraries (pandas/polars, scikit-learn, matplotlib/plotly).
• Ability to write production-quality code for data ingestion, processing, and real-time visualization. Experience with C++ is a plus.

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.

Our differences are our edge. Optiver does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, or other legally protected characteristics.

Below is the expected base salary for this position. This is a good-faith estimate of the base pay scale for this position and offers will ultimately be determined based on experience, education, skill set, and performance in the interview process. This position will also be eligible for a discretionary bonus (if determined by Optiver) and Optiver’s benefits package with the benefits listed above.