Distinguished Architect, Trading Platforms and Technology

LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.$197K — $329K *
Finance & Insurance
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 8+ years designing enterprise-scale architectures, including microservices and event-driven systems
  • 5+ years in trading technology domains (e.g., equities, ETFs, options)
  • Experience with OMS/EMS platforms, FIX protocol, and market data infrastructure
  • Led cloud transformation initiatives (AWS preferred) and modernized legacy platforms
  • Defined and executed long-term architecture strategies and roadmaps

Responsibilities

  • Own architecture for enterprise-scale trading platforms supporting $1T+ in assets
  • Build at the intersection of AI-driven trading, real-time data systems, and digital assets
  • Define target-state architecture for Broker Dealer, Advisory, and Models domains
  • Lead initiatives for cloud adoption, API-first design, and microservices transformation
  • Establish and evolve architecture standards driving scalability, performance, and security
  • Guide and influence domain architects for consistency across the trading ecosystem
  • Drive adoption of emerging technologies like AI/ML and blockchain capabilities

Benefits

  • 401K matching
  • Health benefits
  • Employee stock options
  • Paid time off
  • Volunteer time off
Full Job Description
Distinguished Architect - Trading & Investment Management Technology

As a Distinguished Architect - Trading & Investment Management Technology, you will shape the future of trading platforms across Broker Dealer, Advisory, and Models capabilities - working at the forefront of cloud transformation, AI-enabled trading, and next-generation financial infrastructure. This is a rare opportunity to operate at enterprise scale while remaining deeply hands-on, driving meaningful impact for advisors and their clients.

Job Overview

The Distinguished Architect serves as a senior individual contributor responsible for defining and advancing the target-state architecture across LPL's trading and investment management platforms. This role partners closely with executive leadership to align business strategy with modern, scalable, and secure technology solutions.

Blending strategic influence with technical depth, this leader guides architecture standards, modernization initiatives, and innovation efforts across high-volume, mission-critical trading systems. This role requires hands-on depth in designing low-latency, high-throughput trading systems, including real-time event streaming, order routing, and market data infrastructure at scale.

The role may sit hybrid out of any of our hubs including NYC (Midtown), Fort Mill SC, San Diego CA, or Austin TX.

Responsibilities
  • Own architecture for enterprise-scale trading platforms supporting $1T+ in assets.Partner with business, product, and technology leadership to align architecture strategy with enterprise priorities and investments.
  • Build at the intersetion of AI-driven trading, real-time data systems, and digital assets.
  • Define target-state architecture for trading platforms across Broker Dealer, Advisory, and Models domains.
  • Lead modernization initiatives including cloud adoption (AWS), API-first design, and transformation to microservices and event-driven architectures.
  • Establish and evolve enterprise architecture standards, frameworks, and reusable assets that drive scalability, performance, and security.
  • Influence enterprise standards, not just a single domain
  • Drive adoption of emerging technologies including AI/ML, real-time data platforms, and blockchain-based capabilities.
  • Guide and influence domain architects to ensure architectural consistency and quality across the trading ecosystem.
  • Champion Architecture as Code (AaC) to enable scalable governance, compliance, and continuous delivery.
  • Provide strategic guidance on build vs. buy decisions and industry best practices to executive stakeholders.


What are we looking for?

We're looking for strong collaborators who deliver exceptional client experiences and thrive in fast-paced, team-oriented environments. Our ideal candidates pursue greatness, act with integrity, and are driven to help our clients succeed. We value those who embrace creativity, continuous improvement, and contribute to a culture where we win together and create and share joy in our work.

Requirements
  • 8 or more years of experience designing enterprise-scale architectures, including microservices and event-driven systems.
  • 5 or more years of experience in trading technology domains (e.g., equities, ETFs, options, or wealth platforms).
  • Experience in trading systems including OMS/EMS platforms, FIX protocol, and market data infrastructure.
  • Experience leading cloud transformation initiatives (AWS preferred) and modernizing legacy platforms.
  • Experience in defining and executing long-term architecture strategies and roadmaps.


Core Competencies
  • Strategic systems thinking with the ability to translate business goals into scalable technical solutions
  • Strong executive communication and influence skills
  • Hands-on technical leadership with a focus on innovation and modernization


Preferences
  • Experience in financial services, wealth management, or broker-dealer environments
  • Familiarity with AI/ML platforms or use cases within trading environments
  • Exposure to blockchain or distributed ledger technologies and digital asset platforms


Pay Range:
$197,966.00 - $329,909.00
Actual base salary varies based on factors, including but not limited to, relevant skill, prior experience, education, base salary of internal peers, demonstrated performance, and geographic location. Additionally, LPL Total Rewards package is highly competitive, designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play - such as 401K matching, health benefits, employee stock options, paid time off, volunteer time off, and more. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that LPL has to offer!

About LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.

LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. Careers

Joining LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. presents an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a leading team of professionals in the financial services industry. The company is renowned for its commitment to innovation, leadership, and professional growth, making it an ideal workplace for ambitious individuals looking to advance their careers.

Explore Job Opportunities

LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and interests. From entry-level positions to senior leadership roles, each job opening provides a platform for personal and professional development. Candidates can expect a rigorous interview process that ensures each team member is not only a fit for the position but also aligns with the company's culture of excellence and integrity.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career journey, LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. provides robust internship programs designed to offer real-world experience in the financial sector. Internships are a cornerstone of the company's commitment to nurturing young talent, providing a foundation of knowledge and skills that are crucial for future employment in the industry.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. The company believes in empowering all employees through diversity training and leadership opportunities that promote an inclusive workplace. This approach not only enhances team collaboration but also drives innovation and creativity.

Benefits and Culture

LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. is dedicated to supporting its employees with comprehensive benefits designed to promote a healthy work-life balance. Benefits include competitive health care options, retirement plans, and wellness programs. The company culture is built on a foundation of mutual respect and teamwork, encouraging networking and professional development across all levels of the organization.

Professional Growth and Development

Employees at LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. are encouraged to continuously enhance their professional skills and advance their careers within the company. Leadership development programs and continuous learning opportunities are readily available, allowing individuals to achieve their career goals and contribute effectively to their teams.

Join the LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. Team

LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. is actively hiring and looking for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players. Explore open positions that match your skills and interests on the LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. careers page. Each position offers a chance to be part of a dynamic team that is instrumental in shaping the future of financial services.

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