
Job Overview
Location
Chicago, IL, us
Job Type
Full-time
Category
Software Engineering
Date Posted
February 26, 2026
Full Job Description
đź“‹ Description
- • Join Next Step Systems as a Systems & Automation Engineer, a pivotal role within our dynamic trading team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere in the US, while contributing to the critical infrastructure that powers our high-frequency trading operations.
- • As a Systems & Automation Engineer, you will be instrumental in ensuring the seamless operation and unwavering stability of our production trading systems. Your primary focus will be on maintaining the integrity and performance of these mission-critical platforms, guaranteeing minimal downtime and maximum efficiency in a fast-paced trading environment.
- • A core aspect of your role will involve the design, development, and ongoing maintenance of robust Python-based automation solutions. These solutions will be essential for enhancing our operational tooling, developing sophisticated monitoring systems, creating insightful dashboards, and streamlining our deployment workflows. You will leverage your scripting prowess to build tools that improve efficiency, reduce manual effort, and provide real-time visibility into system health.
- • You will be responsible for the administration and comprehensive support of our Windows systems. This includes implementing and managing configuration, optimizing performance through tuning, ensuring systems are up-to-date with the latest patches, and responding effectively to any system incidents.
- • A significant part of your responsibilities will revolve around managing and supporting our identity, endpoint, and access platforms, primarily within the Microsoft ecosystem. This encompasses deep involvement with Microsoft 365, Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), Intune, and other related services, ensuring secure and efficient user access and device management.
- • You will be the go-to person for troubleshooting and resolving complex issues that may arise across our diverse range of systems, applications, and core networking components. This requires a broad understanding of multi-platform environments and the ability to quickly diagnose and rectify problems to minimize impact on trading operations.
- • Supporting and advancing our operational security initiatives will be a key responsibility. This includes implementing system hardening best practices, actively remediating vulnerabilities, and establishing and maintaining continuous monitoring capabilities to safeguard our trading infrastructure.
- • You will participate in an on-call rotation as part of the team, providing essential support outside of standard business hours to address any urgent operational needs or incidents that may occur.
- • This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of systems engineering, automation, and financial trading. You will gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies and contribute directly to the success of a leading trading firm.
- • We are looking for an individual who is proactive, detail-oriented, and possesses a strong problem-solving aptitude. You should be comfortable working independently in a remote setting while also collaborating effectively with a distributed team.
- • Your contributions will directly impact the reliability and performance of our trading systems, ensuring we can execute trades efficiently and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
- • This position is ideal for someone passionate about building scalable and resilient systems, automating complex processes, and working within a high-stakes, technology-driven industry.
- • You will have the opportunity to shape and improve our operational processes through innovative automation and sound systems engineering principles.
- • The role demands a blend of technical expertise in Windows administration, scripting, and cloud identity management, coupled with a keen understanding of operational best practices in a production environment.
- • We value individuals who are eager to learn, adapt to new technologies, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- • Your work will be crucial in maintaining the high availability and low latency required for successful trading operations.
- • This is more than just a systems role; it's an opportunity to be a key player in the technology that drives financial markets.
🎯 Requirements
- • Proven experience in systems administration, with a strong focus on Windows Server environments.
- • Proficiency in Python scripting for automation, including experience with relevant libraries and frameworks.
- • Hands-on experience managing Microsoft 365, Entra ID (Azure AD), and Intune for identity and endpoint management.
- • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex issues across systems, applications, and networks.
- • Experience with configuration management tools and practices.
- • Familiarity with operational security principles, including system hardening and vulnerability management.
- • Ability to participate in an on-call rotation.
🏖️ Benefits
- • Fully Remote Work Environment (Work From Home)
- • Competitive Salary and Performance Bonuses
- • Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays
- • Opportunities for Professional Development and Training
- • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
Skills & Technologies
About Next Step Systems
Next Step Systems is a staffing and recruiting firm headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in technology, cybersecurity, engineering, and finance talent. Founded in 1995, the company delivers contract, contract-to-hire, and direct-hire solutions to Fortune 1000 clients and high-growth organizations nationwide. Its recruiters combine deep vertical expertise with proprietary sourcing tools to place professionals ranging from help-desk analysts to C-suite executives. The firm also offers project consulting and managed services, supporting digital transformation initiatives, compliance mandates, and business expansion. Next Step Systems maintains offices in Illinois and Texas and is a certified minority-owned business.
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