Breaking into High-Frequency Trading (HFT) Firms

1️⃣ Who Hires + Salaries

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High-frequency trading firms typically offer four main technical roles: Software Engineer (SWE), Quant Researcher, Quant Trader, and Infrastructure Engineer.

• A Software Engineer focuses on building and optimizing low-latency trading systems, network pipelines, and execution platforms, this role is code-heavy and favors those strong in C++, systems design, and LeetCode-style algorithms.

• A Quant Researcher develops statistical models to predict price movements, requiring deep math, probability, and machine learning skills, ideal for those with PhDs or strong academic backgrounds in math-heavy disciplines.

• A Quant Trader operates at the intersection of markets and models, executing strategies in real-time and relying on mental math, pattern recognition, and decision-making speed.

• Lastly, the Infrastructure Engineer builds and maintains the backbone of compute clusters, networking systems, and storage—this role is perfect for candidates who enjoy distributed systems, Linux internals, and high-availability engineering. Each of these roles contributes uniquely to a firm’s edge in the markets.

2️⃣ How to Network & Apply

Full networking guide -

The Holy Grail of Networking (A-Z) with templates

Cold Email Template:

Subject: Interest in Quant Role @ [Company Name]

Hi [Name],

I’m a [Year] CS/Math student at [University], and I’m fascinated by the intersection of low-latency systems and quantitative research. I’m preparing for roles in firms like [Company] and would be grateful for any guidance or a quick 15-minute chat on how to best position myself.

Thanks in advance,

[Your Name]

3️⃣ What to Prepare

✅ A. LeetCode/DSA Questions (Core SWE Round)

🔗 Notable Problems:

• Median of Two Sorted Arrays

• Word Ladder

• Longest Increasing Path in a Matrix

• Max Profit with K Transactions

• Shortest Path in Binary Matrix

• N-Queens

• Trapping Rain Water

• LFU Cache

• Palindrome Partitioning II

• Sliding Window Maximum

4️⃣ Bonus: System Design (Low Latency)

Topics to know:

• Multithreading, Locks, Mutex

• Network Protocols (TCP vs UDP)

• Kernel Bypass (DPDK, RDMA)

5️⃣ Quant vs SWE vs Infra – Role Differences

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6️⃣ Timeline: When to Apply

⏳ Applications open as early as June–August for next summer (especially for Jane Street, HRT, Citadel, IMC).

Apply as early as possible, especially for internships.

❗ Many roles close by September–October, and early applicants are prioritized.

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