Graduate Software Engineer, London

We are looking for inquisitive problem solvers to join our team as a Graduate Engineer

Mako is a leading options market maker with a global trading footprint. It has been at the forefront of options market making for over 20 years, from the open outcry trading pits to screen trading and automated algorithmic execution strategies that are driving the future of the industry.

From offices in London, Amsterdam, Dublin, Singapore, Sydney, Brisbane and Chengdu, Mako offers the best in class liquidity solutions across Equities, Fixed Income, Commodities and FX derivatives markets and prides itself in its entrepreneurial, collaborative and philanthropic culture.

• Python, shell scripting, CMake, Jenkins, PCAP/Wireshark, C, static analysers, a range of compilers.

We are Mako

At Mako, we are welcoming, inclusive and collaborative. We work fast and smart in a supportive and dress-down environment that allows colleagues to be themselves and achieve great things. We uphold the principles of a flat structure that offers unrivalled engagement with senior leadership and career development opportunities. We have a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Flexible leave and flexible working policies
• Private health and dental insurance
• Generous pension scheme
• Free access to the Mako gym
• Employee wellbeing guidance and support
• Opportunity to become involved in the rewarding work of the Mako Foundation

Mako’s Graduate Engineer Programme is an immersive and structured programme specially designed to give our graduates the opportunity to develop in-depth knowledge and experience of the industry. As a graduate, you will be part of a structured training programme designed to provide you with hands-on experience and early exposure to production-relevant work within our Software team, alongside formal training and development opportunities.

What we need from you

Most of our engineers have a degree in a STEM subject and what they all have in common is having a pragmatic, problem-solving mind-set and strong quantitative skills. Additionally, we are looking for:

• A strong understanding of algorithms and data structures
• Knowledge of at least one mainstream OOP language such as C++, C#, Java, JavaScript or Go
• Working knowledge of C++, as our live coding interviews are conducted in C++
• An upper second class degree in an STEM based subject or equivalent.
• An interest in financial markets

• Experience of asynchronous and multi-threaded programming
• An appreciation for clean, readable, testable code
• A good understanding of networks and network programming
• An understanding of computer architecture and how it relates to the performance of your code

From the outset, Graduate Engineers are introduced to the team and its duties. Our low latency derivatives trading system is written in-house. It is implemented in C++ and runs on Linux.

The Front Office engineering team is responsible for designing and implementing all aspects of Mako’s proprietary trading system. This includes algorithms, pricing models, user interfaces and connectivity to most major derivatives venues and third-party trading platforms.

As a Graduate Engineer, you will be mentored by some of the most experienced professionals in the business, working in pragmatic, self-organising teams that collaborate closely with traders, hardware engineers, and support staff.

Our teams use an Agile development model to deliver tangible business value. By leveraging modern software practices and continuous integration pipelines, our engineers rapidly transform trading ideas into profitable automated strategies.

We provide graduates with dedicated mentorship and comprehensive training in both technical and soft skills, preparing you to partner effectively with stakeholders and solve complex trading challenges. Technology is central to everything we do, and our teams are composed of knowledgeable, motivated, and friendly problem-solvers who thrive in Mako's highly supportive and collaborative culture.

Recruitment Process

At Mako, we want you to have the best possible experience, so we've outlined what to expect from our recruitment process to help you prepare for each stage.

• Initial Online Assessment

Shortly after you apply, you'll receive an online test. We recommend completing it promptly in a calm, focused environment.

• Technical Coding Test

If your assessment is successful and your profile aligns with the role; you’ll be invited to complete an online technical coding assessment.

• Live Coding Interviews

Next, you'll participate in two rounds of live coding interviews, conducted in C++.

• Final Panel Interview

If you progress past the live coding stage, we’ll schedule a final interview with a panel of our Senior Engineers and HR. Again, please check your email (including spam folders) for scheduling details.

• Offer Stage

Once all interviews are completed, offers will be made to successful candidates.

If you require any support or adjustments with the application process or have any questions about the application process, please contact hr@mako.com .