Lead Data Architect
About The Position
Optiver Chicago is seeking a seasoned Data Architect to support and advance the data capabilities of our local research team and contribute to our broader Lakehouse architecture vision. In this role, you'll work with cutting-edge tools like Databricks, Apache Spark, and Delta Lake, translating experimental research workflows into scalable, production-grade systems. As a critical engineering presence in Chicago, you'll directly influence local data strategy while collaborating with our Global Research and Data Platform teams. Your work will drive real-time insights, enable predictive analytics, and power decision-making across the trading lifecycle. This role combines hands-on data engineering, cross-regional collaboration, and platform innovation—all within a high-performance, data-driven environment.
Requirements
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in data engineering, delivering robust pipelines at scale
- Advanced Python skills and deep experience with Apache Spark and the Databricks platform
- Familiarity with Delta Lake, streaming data systems (e.g., Kafka), and distributed compute environments
- Solid understanding of cloud-native data architectures (preferably AWS) and infrastructure cost optimization principles
- Proficiency in relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL) and modern orchestration tools
- Proven ability to lead projects independently and deliver outcomes in fast-paced environments
- Clear communicator who collaborates well with researchers, traders, and engineers alike
- Enthusiastic mentor and strong advocate for engineering rigor and platform scalability
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical discipline
Nice To Haves
- Experience with system-level languages (e.g., C++, Rust)
- Exposure to MLOps or MLflow
Responsibilities
- Design, build, and maintain reliable ETL/ELT pipelines using Spark, Structured Streaming, Databricks, and our in-house high-performance tools
- Optimize and productionize research workflows with a strong focus on scalability, resilience, and performance tuning
- Collaborate with power users to develop and share reusable patterns, templates, and onboarding pathways
- Define, document, and enforce data engineering best practices
- Mentor junior engineers and drive a culture of continuous learning and DataOps excellence
Benefits
- Immediate impact on the data systems powering world-class research and real-time trading decisions.
- A unique opportunity to shape Lakehouse engineering in the United States and influence global data architecture.
- High autonomy to own complex workflows and template “how-to” solutions across teams.
- Close collaboration with quant researchers and traders to unlock predictive insights and trading alpha.
- Partnership with best-in-class engineers across Chicago, Amsterdam, and Sydney.
- The opportunity to work alongside best-in-class professionals from over 40 different countries
- 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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
