Optiver training: turning world class thinkers into world class trading professionals
The Global Optiver Academy: Comprehensive onboarding for new hires
At Optiver, we recruit technical problem solvers. Our employees come from a variety of fields—most with no previous trading industry experience—but they do have a few things in common: they are quantitative, entrepreneurial, and always looking to grow. Our traders and software engineers both go through comprehensive training programs upon starting their careers, so you’ll be set up for success, no matter your background.
Trader training: From the training room to the trading floor in 12 weeks
Rigorous. Immersive. Intensive. Our global trader training equips all graduate trading and research hires with the knowledge needed to make an impact the moment you join your trading desk. The first four weeks of training bring together all trading hires to learn the ins and outs of trading and options theory from Optiver’s Amsterdam office. Because every new hire completes program, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, with no prior industry experience required.
After returning to your local office, you’ll begin a period of immersive simulated trading. During this time, you’ll devise and execute your own trading strategies using our real-time, live-market data and proprietary trading systems. It’s as close as you can get to the real-world experience of trading. We’ll also pair you with an experienced trader to mentor you throughout the beginning of your career and prepare you for the required financial regulatory exams. By the end of the 12 weeks, you’ll be trained, licensed, and ready to hit the trading floor with the support of your new team.
Technology training: Boot Camp to boots on the ground in eight weeks
Our eight-week tech onboarding program is designed for graduates transitioning from academia to a career in trading technology. Your journey begins in our Amsterdam office, where you’ll join your global peers for comprehensive training covering trading theory and our Optiver-specific tech stack. This initial phase provides a solid foundation and sets the stage for your specialised regional training.
After Amsterdam, you’ll return to your local office and start your hands-on projects. Working closely with your team, you’ll apply your new skills to real-world challenges, fostering rapid learning and growth. In addition to having a dedicated mentor, you’ll work side-by-side with experienced engineers sharing their knowledge and helping you grow. This interdisciplinary, collaborative, and inherently iterative way of working provides an unusually fast feedback loop. Your work will be put to the test in real time, in all kinds of market conditions. It’s a formula for near-constant optimisation—of both the systems you build and of yourself as an engineer.
Read more about our technical onboarding program:
