Trading Operations Analyst/Associate

AQR is a global investment firm built at the intersection of financial theory and practical application. We strive to deliver long-term results by combining rigorous research with disciplined implementation across global financial markets. Since 1998, AQR has been a leader in alternative investments and an innovator in traditional portfolio management.

Our culture is built around intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We value individuals who enjoy solving complex problems, questioning assumptions, and developing scalable solutions.

AQR is seeking a highly motivated Trading Operations Analyst / Associate to join its Portfolio Management Operations team.

This role supports the firm’s global trading activity across equities, fixed income, foreign exchange, futures, listed and OTC derivatives. Working closely with Trading, Portfolio Implementation, Technology, and Operations, the successful candidate will help ensure the accurate execution, booking, and lifecycle management of trades while partnering with external brokers, prime brokers, custodians, clearing brokers, and other market participants.

The position offers broad exposure to global markets, trading workflows, and investment operations. The ideal candidate is intellectually curious, enjoys solving problems, and is interested in using data and technology to improve operational processes.

Trading Operations

• Support the trade lifecycle across multiple asset classes from execution through settlement.

• Monitor daily trading workflows and investigate trade, allocation, booking, pricing, and settlement exceptions.

• Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external counterparties to resolve operational issues.

• Support daily production processes, operational controls, and end-of-day signoffs.

• Assist with corporate actions, rights events, foreign exchange workflows, and other portfolio implementation activities.

• Systems ownership and issue resolution across several proprietary and third-party Trading and P&L systems.

Investigation & Analysis

• Research and resolve trade lifecycle discrepancies across multiple internal and external systems.

• Analyze booking differences, commission discrepancies, market fees, taxes, and execution-related issues.

• Escalate complex issues with clear supporting analysis and recommended next steps.

• Maintain ownership of assigned issues through resolution while ensuring timely communication with stakeholders.

• Identify recurring themes and contribute to root-cause analysis and long-term process improvements.

Technology & Process Improvement

• Support testing and implementation of enhancements across trading and operational platforms.

• Utilize Excel, SQL, and other analytical tools to reconcile data and investigate production issues.

• Participate in automation initiatives and workflow optimization projects.

• Assist with documentation, testing, and production readiness for new functionality and system enhancements.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field.

• 1-3 years of experience in investment operations, trading support, financial markets, or related