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Student and Graduate Events

FutureFocus Tech 2026

Chicago

Curious how your engineering skills could power real-world impact in global markets? Step into the world of high-performance technology and algorithmic trading through Optiver’s FutureFocus Technology Program. This immersive, five-day program gives you a front-row seat to the systems and minds driving one of the most advanced trading firms in the world — and a fast-track opportunity toward a Software Engineering Internship (Summer 2027). 

FutureFocus is a selective educational experience for students graduating between Winter 2027 and Spring 2028, designed to uncover how world-class engineers build and optimize the systems that move global markets. Across five action-packed days, you’ll get hands-on experience, technical mentorship, and a behind-the-scenes view of Optiver’s technology-driven edge. 

 

What you’ll do: 

Requiring quick thinking, a critical mindset and bold action, FutureFocus offers you the opportunity to: 

  • See firsthand how Optiver engineers design, optimize, and scale high-performance trading systems that process millions of data points per second. 
  • Apply your coding and problem-solving skills to build trading system applications in technology labs. 
  • Learn from Optiver’s dedicated technology education team, who will provide tailored guidance and support throughout the week. 
  • Engage with Optiver engineers and leaders through Q&A panels and networking opportunities to help you build meaningful connections within the industry. 

 

What you’ll get: 

You’ll join a culture of collaboration and excellence, where you’ll be surrounded by curious thinkers and creative problem solvers. Motivated by a passion for continuous improvement, you’ll thrive in a supportive, high-performing environment alongside talented peers, learning about the toughest problems in the financial markets. 

In addition, you’ll receive: 

  • A taste of Optiver’s company culture and our perks and benefits firsthand, including daily breakfast, lunch, coffee, smoothies, and more 
  • A comfortable stay with fully-covered accommodation and travel expenses, allowing you to focus on making the most of the program. 
  • A deeper understanding of the industry and the confidence needed to excel in a high-performance environment. 

 

Who you are: 

You’re an undergraduate student who is: 

  • Pursuing a degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering 
  • On-track to graduate between December 2027 and June 2028 
  • Available to attend the program in Chicago Sunday, March 22- Friday night, March 27 
  • A curious and analytical thinker who asks ‘why’ before accepting ‘what’ 
  • Motivated to explore how technology powers modern markets 

 

Apply Now 

Does this sound like the future you’re looking for? Submit your resume to apply.  

Once you submit your application, eligible candidates will receive an online assessment to complete. Those who pass the assessment will proceed to the next phase of the process. 

 

Following your participation in this program, you may choose to move forward with the application process for Optiver’s internship program. Below is the expected base salary for an internship position in our Trading or Tech departments. This is a good-faith estimate of the base pay scale and sign on bonus for this position and offers will ultimately be determined based on experience, education, skill set, and performance in the interview process. Internship positions in our Trading and Tech departments are also be eligible for benefits including Optiver-covered flights, living accommodations and commuting stipends (where applicable); and office perks, including daily breakfast and lunch, social events and clubs. 

Internship Base Salary Range
$80,000$80,000 USD
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FutureFocus Tech 2026
Student and Graduate Events Chicago
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