Software Engineer - Reference Data in London

Reference data is the foundation of every trading decision we make. From financial instruments and corporate actions to market calendars, counterparty data, and alternative datasets, the breadth and complexity of reference data continues to grow alongside the increasing sophistication and interconnected nature of global markets. We are looking for a Data Software Engineer to join our Global Data Engineering team to expand the coverage, quality, and robustness of our reference data products, which power low, medium, and high frequency trading strategies across the firm.

What you'll do:

• Establish vision and technical direction for major initiatives across our reference data platform
• Expand and harden existing reference data products — improving coverage across asset classes and datasets, raising data quality, and increasing operational robustness
• Design, develop, support, and maintain critical components of our data infrastructure that traders and researchers rely on every day
• Ensure new and existing programs adhere to our coding, architectural, and operational standards
• Develop a deep understanding of trading, exchanges, and the diverse data domains that underpin them
• Collaborate deeply with traders, engineers, and researchers to identify gaps, prioritise improvements, and deliver datasets that meet the bar of a top-tier trading firm

What you'll need:

• Strong engineering instincts and a deep understanding of computer science fundamentals
• Experience writing software in C++, C, C# and/or Python
• A pragmatic approach to data modelling — able to balance correctness, completeness, and the realities of messy upstream sources
• Innovative, big-picture thinking grounded in real-world pragmatism
• Desire to continuously improve in a rapidly evolving environment
• Readiness to set technical direction, promote engineering principles, and do the right things

Who we are

At Optiver, our mission is to constantly improve the market by injecting liquidity, providing accurate pricing, increasing transparency and acting as a stabilizing force no matter the market conditions. With a focus on continuous improvement, we participate in the safeguarding of healthy and efficient markets for everyone who participates. As one of the largest market making institutions, we are a trusted partner of 70+ exchanges across the globe.

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 colleagues, working collectively to tackle the toughest problems in the financial markets.

In addition, you’ll receive:

• A performance-based bonus structure, enabling all of our employees to benefit from our global profit pool.
• 27 paid vacation days plus all UK public holidays.
• Daily breakfast and lunch, along with support on commuting expenses.
• Private medical insurance, pension scheme, and ClassPass fitness membership.
• Training and continuous learning opportunities, including access to conferences and tech events.
• International transfer opportunities for global career growth.

How to apply

Are you interested in furthering your career on one of the most dynamic and exciting trading floors in Europe? Apply directly via the form below. If you have any questions feel free to contact our Recruitment team via our recruitment inquiry form.

Diversity statement

Optiver is committed to diversity and inclusion.