Graduate C++ Developer (2027 Incoming Graduate, Full-Time)
The Graduate C++ Developer at Confidential Client will work on developing and optimizing high-frequency trading systems within a collaborative, experienced team. This role involves implementing trading features, monitoring system performance, and liaising with traders and developers to enhance low-latency trading technology in a fast-paced proprietary trading environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, proprietary trading / financial services (proprietary trading).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking a Graduate C++ Developer to join their Chicago engineering team and work across the full lifecycle of a low-latency trading platform. This is a hands-on, entry-level engineering role for a 2027 graduate (start in 2027, full-time) who wants to work on performance-sensitive systems.
- Implement, test, and deploy new features and internal tools for the trading system
- Monitor low-latency system performance and respond to production issues
- Track and resolve market data and resource-utilization problems; deliver bug fixes to production
- Collaborate with traders and developers on performance optimizations and design trade-offs
- Refactor existing implementations, and validate compatibility with OS and library updates
- Investigate, diagnose, and remediate issues in the trading stack (from data feed handling to execution)
What We’re Looking For (Qualifications)
Applicants should be graduating in 2027 (by August 2027) with a degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. The role targets candidates with early C++ experience and an interest in low-latency systems.
- Graduating in 2027 with a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
- 1+ industry internships or equivalent professional experience working in C++
- Strong knowledge of C++ and data structures
- Familiarity with low-latency topics and common 3rd-party libraries (STL, Boost)
- Comfortable working in Linux environments and using git
- Exceptional problem-solving ability and strong written/verbal communication
Compensation & Benefits
The expected base salary range for this position is $125,000 to $200,000, depending on qualifications and experience.
- Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonuses
- Comprehensive health benefits and 401(k) plan
- Commuter and wellness reimbursements
- Learning and development support
- Casual dress code, team events, weekly lunches
- On-site amenities at the Chicago headquarters (stocked pantry, relaxation spaces)
Note: this role is based in Chicago, IL (on-site). Employment is with Confidential Client; Careertakes is the recruiting partner.
Location & Employment Type
- Location: Chicago, IL (on-site)
- Employment type: Full-time
- Start: 2027 (incoming graduate cohort)
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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