Senior Python Software Engineer – Systematic Trading (Elite Hedge Fund Client) : £200k

We are partnering with one of the most prestigious and discreet quantitative trading firms globally. Our client operates at the cutting edge of systematic trading, leveraging advanced research, high-performance computing, and world-class engineering to drive consistent alpha.

They are seeking an exceptional Senior Python Software Engineer to join their core trading infrastructure team. This is a rare opportunity to work alongside some of the most accomplished engineers and researchers in the industry.

The Opportunity

You will play a pivotal role in designing and building scalable, low-latency systems that underpin live trading strategies across global markets. The environment is intellectually rigorous, highly collaborative, and uncompromising on technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect and develop high-performance Python systems for trading, data processing, and research
• Collaborate closely with quantitative researchers and traders to productionise models
• Optimise systems for latency, throughput, and reliability in a live trading environment
• Contribute to core infrastructure, including data pipelines, simulation frameworks, and execution systems
• Drive best practices in software engineering, testing, and system design

Technology Environment

The stack is modern, performance-focused, and constantly evolving. You will work with:

• Languages: Python (core), plus exposure to C++ / Rust for latency-critical components
• Data & Compute: NumPy, Pandas, PyArrow, Polars
• Machine Learning: PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn
• Infrastructure: Linux, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, cloud (AWS/GCP)
• DevOps & Tooling: Git, CI/CD pipelines, Prometheus, Grafana
• Networking & Exchange Connectivity: FIX, binary protocols

Candidate Profile

We are explicitly targeting individuals with exceptional academic and technical pedigree:

• Degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field from a top-tier university (e.g. Oxbridge, Ivy League, or global equivalents)
• Outstanding academic record (First Class / GPA 3.8+ or equivalent)
• Proven experience building complex systems in Python within high-performance or data-intensive environments
• Strong foundations in algorithms, data structures, and system design
• Deep understanding of concurrency, distributed systems, and performance optimisation
• Prior experience in trading, finance, or another highly demanding technical domain is advantageous but not essential

Personal Attributes

• Exceptional problem-solving ability and intellectual curiosity
• High standards of ownership and accountability
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment
• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Why This Role

• Work at the forefront of quantitative trading and technology
• Collaborate with world-class talent in a flat, meritocratic environment
• Access to significant computational resources and high-quality data
• Highly competitive compensation structure, including substantial performance bonuses