Energy Trader - Power Markets

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive base salary

Performance-based bonus potential

Medical aid and retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Energy Trader for a dynamic desk focused on the South African power market. The role is based in East London, Eastern Cape, with a hybrid work setup. You will execute trading strategies, manage risk, and seek profitable opportunities in wholesale electricity.

The candidate should have a strong background in power markets, derivatives, and regulatory factors, with proven trading performance under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or related quantitative field.
• 3-5 years of energy trading experience, preferably in SA electricity market.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with ability to interpret complex data.
• Deep understanding of power market structures, derivatives, and trading mechanisms.
• Familiarity with South African energy market regulations and participants.

Responsibilities

• Execute trading strategies in spot and forward electricity markets to maximize profitability.
• Monitor market conditions and events impacting energy prices.
• Analyze supply/demand fundamentals, generation schedules, and transmission constraints.
• Manage trading positions and risk within established limits.
• Develop and refine trading models and algorithms.
• Communicate market insights and trading recommendations to senior management.
• Liaise with market operators, regulators, and counterparties.
• Maintain detailed trading records and generate performance reports.

Skills

Analytical skills

Quantitative skills

Financial modeling

Trading platforms

Decision-making under pressure

Negotiation

Communication

Regulatory awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or related quantitative field

Tools

Trading platforms

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a dynamic energy trading firm seeking an experienced Energy Trader to join their expanding desk focused on the South African power markets. This role is based in East London, Eastern Cape, with a hybrid working arrangement. You will be responsible for executing trading strategies, managing risk, and identifying profitable opportunities in the wholesale electricity market. The successful candidate must possess a deep understanding of power market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and factors influencing energy prices. This is a high-pressure, performance-driven environment where sharp analytical skills and quick decision-making are paramount. Your contribution will directly impact the company's profitability and market position.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute trading strategies in the spot and forward electricity markets to maximize profitability.
• Monitor market conditions, news, and events that could impact energy prices.
• Analyze supply and demand fundamentals, generation schedules, and transmission constraints.
• Manage trading positions and associated risks within established risk limits.
• Develop and refine trading models and algorithms.
• Communicate market insights and trading recommendations to senior management.
• Liaise with market operators, regulators, and counterparties.
• Ensure compliance with all trading rules, regulations, and internal policies.
• Contribute to the development of new trading strategies and market entry opportunities.
• Maintain detailed trading records and generate performance reports.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in energy trading, preferably within the South African electricity market.
• Proven track record of successful trading performance and risk management.
• Deep understanding of power market structures, derivatives, and trading mechanisms.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and trading platforms.
• Excellent decision-making abilities and capacity to perform under pressure.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Familiarity with South African energy market regulations and participants.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced trading environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive base salary and significant performance-based bonus potential.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading trading firm.
• Hybrid work model providing a balance between office and remote work.
• Exposure to high-stakes trading environments and strategic decision-making.
• Be at the forefront of the evolving South African energy market.