Optiver

Optiver is seeking a seasoned Data Engineer to support and advance the data capabilities of our local research team and contribute to our broader Lakehouse architecture vision.

In this role, you'll work with cutting-edge tools like Databricks, Apache Spark, and Delta Lake, translating experimental research workflows into scalable, production-grade systems.

As a critical engineering presence in Amsterdam, you'll directly influence local data strategy while collaborating with our Global Research and Data Platform teams. Your work will drive real-time insights, enable predictive analytics, and power decision-making across the trading lifecycle.

This role combines hands-on data engineering, cross-regional collaboration, and platform innovation—all within a high-performance, data-driven environment.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Design, build, and maintain reliable ETL/ELT pipelines using Spark, Structured Streaming, Databricks, and our in-house high-performance tools.
• Optimize and productionize research workflows with a strong focus on scalability, resilience, and performance tuning.
• Collaborate with power users to develop and share reusable patterns, templates, and onboarding pathways.
• Define, document, and enforce data engineering best practices.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive a culture of continuous learning and DataOps excellence.

What impact you can have

• Immediate impact on the data systems powering world-class research and real-time trading decisions.
• A unique opportunity to shape Lakehouse engineering in Europe and influence global data architecture.
• High autonomy to own complex workflows and template “how-to” solutions across teams.
• Close collaboration with quant researchers and traders to unlock predictive insights and trading alpha.
• Partnership with best-in-class engineers globally.

WHO YOU ARE

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in data engineering, delivering robust pipelines at scale.
• Advanced Python skills and deep experience with Apache Spark and the Databricks platform.
• Familiarity with Delta Lake, streaming data systems (e.g., Kafka), and distributed compute environments.
• Solid understanding of cloud-native data architectures (preferably AWS) and infrastructure cost optimization principles.
• Proficiency in relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL) and modern orchestration tools.
• Proven ability to lead projects independently and deliver outcomes in fast-paced environments.
• Clear communicator who collaborates well with researchers, traders, and engineers alike.
• Enthusiastic mentor and strong advocate for engineering rigor and platform scalability.

It would be a bonus if you have:

• Experience with system-level languages (e.g., C++, Rust) and exposure to MLOps or MLflow.

WHO WE ARE

At Optiver, our mission is to continuously improve the market. By providing liquidity and accurate pricing in various financial instruments, to multiple exchanges across the world, we participate in the safeguarding of healthy and efficient markets.

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.
• The opportunity to work alongside best-in-class professionals from over 50 different countries.
• 25 paid vacation days in your first year, increasing to 30 from your second year onwards.
• Training opportunities, discounts on health insurance, and fully paid first-class commuting expenses.
• Extensive office perks, including breakfast, lunch and dinner, world-class barista coffee, in-house physio and chair massages, organized sports and leisure activities, and Friday afternoon drinks.
• Training and continuous learning opportunities, including access to conferences and tech events.
• Competitive relocation packages and visa sponsorship where necessary for expats.

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 recruitment@optiver.com.

Please note:

• We do not require any assistance from third-parties including agencies in the recruitment of this role
• We cannot accept applications via email’

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

Optiver is committed to diversity and inclusion.