Senior Crypto Quantitative Trader

Illuminate Capital is seeking aSenior Crypto Quantitative Traderto lead our quantitative trading initiatives across global cryptocurrency markets. In this senior-level role, you will architect, optimize, and scale algorithmic trading strategies while mentoring junior team members and contributing to the strategic direction of our trading desk. You will operate at the intersection of advanced quantitative methods, low-latency execution, and deep blockchain expertise.

• Lead Strategy Development:Architect and implement advanced quantitative trading strategies including cross-exchange arbitrage, statistical arbitrage, market making, and momentum strategies tailored to crypto market microstructure .
• Optimize Execution:Drive execution quality improvements across centralized (CEX) and decentralized (DEX) exchanges, focusing on latency reduction, gas optimization, and smart order routing .
• Advanced Data Analysis:Leverage large-scale datasets tick-level order book data, on-chain metrics, mempool dynamics, and alternative data to uncover proprietary alpha signals .
• Risk & Portfolio Management:Design and oversee comprehensive risk frameworks to manage market, counterparty, liquidity, and operational risks across multiple strategies and venues .
• Mentorship:Guide and develop junior quantitative traders and researchers, fostering a culture of rigorous analysis and continuous improvement .
• Infrastructure Collaboration:Work closely with quantitative developers to enhance trading infrastructure, backtesting frameworks, and real-time monitoring tools .
• Research & Innovation:Stay at the forefront of crypto market developments, DeFi innovations, and quantitative research to identify new opportunities and maintain competitive advantage .

Education & Experience

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Financial Engineering, or a related quantitative field from a top-tier institution .
• 5+ years of experience in quantitative trading, with at least 3 years focused on cryptocurrency or digital asset markets .
• Demonstrated track record of generating consistent alpha and managing significant trading capital in crypto markets .
• Experience leading trading teams or projects is strongly preferred .

Technical Skills

• Expert-level proficiency inPythonfor quantitative analysis, strategy development, and automation .
• Strong programming skills inC++,Rust, orJavafor low-latency systems and production-grade trading engines .
• Deep experience with market data APIs, trading protocols (FIX, WebSocket, REST), and crypto-specific libraries (CCXT, Web3.py) .
• Proven ability to work with massive datasets using tools likepandas,NumPy,Spark, or similar .
• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch) is a strong plus .

Crypto & Market Expertise

• Comprehensive understanding of cryptocurrency market microstructure, including order book dynamics, liquidity patterns, and volatility characteristics .
• Deep knowledge of both centralized (CEX) and decentralized (DEX) exchange ecosystems, including their respective advantages, risks, and execution mechanisms .
• Expertise in DeFi protocols, automated market makers (AMMs), liquidity pools, and on-chain analytics (Dune Analytics, Nansen, Glassnode) .
• Familiarity with blockchain fundamentals, layer-2 solutions, and MEV (Miner Extractable Value) strategies is highly desirable .

Leadership & Soft Skills

• Proven ability to lead initiatives, mentor team members, and drive results in a fast-paced, remote environment .
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and intellectual curiosity, with a passion for crypto markets and quantitative research .
• Strong communication skills to articulate complex strategies and collaborate effectively with researchers, developers, and risk managers .
• Strategic mindset with the ability to balance short-term trading opportunities with long-term portfolio goals .

• Base salary starting from $220,000 $350,000+annually (commensurate with experience and track record) .
• Significant performance-based bonus and profit-sharing structure .
• Fully remote, flexible work environment with a globally distributed team .
• Opportunity to shape the quantitative trading strategy at a rapidly growing digital asset firm .
• Access to cutting-edge technology, data, and research resources .
• Long-term career growth, including potential for leadership and equity participation .