Analyst/Associate – Equity Derivatives Quant/Trader

Jefferies • New York, NY

2d

About The Position

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.
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, backtesting, and the build-out of proprietary trading and risk infrastructure.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related quantitative discipline.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.
• Prior internship or full‑time experience in a trading or quantitative research role.

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 backtests 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.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level