Outsider looking to break into Quant field

[Archidamus]

I've never worked in finance but have a passion for derivatives, options especially, born out of my own trading of these instruments. I would love to work as a Quant working with derivatives trading or pricing(desk Qunat?), but would like some feed back on the reality of my dream. I've been reading the forums and have ordered books to get educated, thanks Andy Nguyen for the list.

I'm currently working on a master's of statistics at a state school estimating a final GPA of 3.8+. My undergrad was in nuclear engineering from a top 10 US engineering school. I have professional work experience in statistical process control, ie lean six sigma for 3 years, as well as the military 4 years. I am proficient in SAS, but lack experience with C++/R/Python/etc.

There are openings for 'Quantitative Analysts' at 2 of the big US banks in my town, mostly model development and validation. Do you think this role would be a good first step in becoming a derivatives trading/pricing Quant? Or should I aim higher to the investment banks and hedge funds that I want to eventually go?

Also, I feel like I have a very different pedigree with my military and industrial background, much different than most others seeking a Quant career, is that a bad thing?

Thanks ahead of time for all your responses and help in bettering me and my family's future! - Archidamus

 

[Konrad]

What is currently most desired in candidates by employers in quantitative finance/algorithmic trading? Strong quantitative academic background, for example, MSc/PhD in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Quantitative Finance or solid practical skills in C++, Python, R used in the finance context and applications of machine learning and AI in finance?