As a major US financial center, Chicago has a large number of investment companies and banks, creating a huge demand for investment analysts. Major firms like Citadel, Optiver, and Jump Trading are aggressively hiring analysts with quantitative skills and coding abilities. The compensation at top firms ranges from $150k to $250k for junior analysts. However, the competition is intense as these jobs attract top talents across the country.
Citadel hires large numbers of analysts
Citadel is one of the largest hedge funds in the world with over $50 billion assets under management. Its Chicago office has around 1200 employees and hires analysts from top schools across the world. Citadel analysts work in teams covering specific sectors and asset classes. First year total compensation can reach $200k at Citadel.
Jump Trading values quantitative skills
Jump Trading is a leading proprietary trading firm in Chicago famous for its technology-driven trading strategies. Jump mainly hires people with STEM backgrounds, programming skills, and research capabilities. The base salary for analysts is around $250k, and bonuses can double total pay.
Optiver has a strong training program
Optiver is a major market maker and trading firm with a global presence. Its Chicago office provides extensive training in options market making for new analysts. Analysts at Optiver need to be adept at math, statistics and programming. Total compensation for first year analysts starts at $250k.
In summary, investment analyst jobs in Chicago offer competitive pay but also high barriers to entry. Candidates need top academics, quantitative skills and programming abilities to land these coveted roles.