Guide to Getting a Quant Job

With the recognition of quant finance rising tremendously over the past couple of decades, the rapid advancement of technology, programming, and financial algorithms has helped to expand quantitative finance into a massive financial department. Quantitative analysts, otherwise known as ‘quants’, are hired by companies in a wide variety of sectors and are considered very valuable employees, and because of this, the role is often complemented by a big wage.

In this role, the main task is to examine large databases and discover patterns so that the business can increase profits and reduce risk. When deciding to apply for a job like this, you need to decide whether this career is appropriate for you.

To be able to do well in quant finance, you need to have a decent proficiency in the following fields – computer programming, finance, and mathematics.

Throughout this guide, some of the methods in which you can become a quant will be reviewed, as well as some general info about the industry.

Quant Finance Course

The CQF (Certificate in Quantitative Finance) is a specialist accreditation that has a range of different study opportunities, so even if you have responsibilities outside of the course, you can still study. It is an adaptable system, which means it can be completed in an assortment of different periods of time (from six months to three years) to ensure that any learners can maintain their schedules easily. This is highly accommodating towards learners with responsibilities outside of their job and studies. The CQF is one of the most highly respected ways of learning quantitative finance online.

The CQF is important for people that are trying to improve their financial career. The program is headed by well-educated professors in the quant finance sector and is internationally recognised by leaders in the quantitative finance industry and is a significantly beneficial qualification to have if you’re trying to get on the quant ladder.

Higher Education

Another way of getting into quant finance is through higher education, such as a university master’s degree. Qualifications in subjects such as mathematics, economics, finance, and computer science are all useful when looking for a role in quant finance, particularly if they are master’s or PHDs. However, university courses are not an automatic pass to a quant finance job – employers often look for applicants with lots of work experience and certifications in this sector.

Entry-Level Roles

If you do not have the necessary qualifications or are unable to undertake further certifications, then a simple way to get onto the career path is to get an entry-level role at a finance-related company and aim to work your way up the ladder. These are the kind of roles that hire graduates straight from education and don’t need years and years of experience.

If you are finding it difficult finding an entry-level quant role, you might be better off starting in a different industry with links to quant finance such as accounting or computer programming to gain the experience needed to be considered for a role in quantitative finance.