Energy Trader - Commodity Markets

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Career growth

Global exposure

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Energy Trader for our client in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will develop and execute trading strategies across power, natural gas, and derivatives, monitor markets, and manage risk within limits.

The role demands a strong quantitative mindset, 5+ years in energy trading, and the ability to operate under pressure. Hybrid work and exposure to global energy markets are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in energy trading or related financial markets role.
• Demonstrated track record in trading energy commodities such as power or natural gas.
• Strong understanding of commodity markets, instruments, and risk management.
• Excellent quantitative and analytical skills with data analysis and modeling capability.
• Ability to perform under pressure and make rapid, sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute trading strategies for energy commodities, including physical and financial instruments.
• Monitor market movements, news, and data to identify short- and long-term opportunities.
• Analyze market fundamentals, weather patterns, and geopolitical events affecting energy prices.
• Manage and mitigate trading risks within established limits.
• Communicate with market participants, brokers, and risk management teams.
• Contribute to development of new trading tools, models, and analyses.
• Maintain accurate trading records and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with origination and business development teams to support commercial activities.
• Provide market insights and commentary to senior management.

Skills

Quantitative skills

Analytical ability

Decision making under pressure

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

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

Tools

Bloomberg

Refinitiv Eikon

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent energy trading firm with a significant presence in the commodity markets, is seeking a highly analytical and decisive Energy Trader to join their trading desk in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**. This role is pivotal in managing and executing trading strategies across various energy commodities, including power, natural gas, and related derivatives. You will be responsible for identifying profitable trading opportunities, managing risk exposure, and contributing to the overall profitability of the trading book. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics, a strong quantitative aptitude, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path within the dynamic world of energy finance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute trading strategies for a portfolio of energy commodities, including physical and financial instruments.
• Monitor market movements, news, and data to identify short-term and long-term trading opportunities.
• Analyze market fundamentals, weather patterns, and geopolitical events impacting energy prices.
• Manage and mitigate trading risks, including price, credit, and operational risks, within established limits.
• Communicate effectively with market participants, brokers, and internal risk management teams.
• Contribute to the development of new trading tools, models, and analytical approaches.
• Maintain accurate trading records and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and internal policies.
• Collaborate with origination and business development teams to support commercial activities.
• Provide market insights and commentary to senior management and other stakeholders.
• Optimize trading positions to maximize profitability while adhering to risk parameters.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in energy trading, commodity trading, or a related financial markets role.
• Demonstrated track record of successful trading in power, natural gas, or other energy-related commodities.
• Strong understanding of commodity markets, trading instruments, and risk management principles.
• Excellent quantitative and analytical skills, with proficiency in data analysis and financial modeling.
• Ability to perform under pressure and make rapid, sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in trading platforms and market data systems (e.g., Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon).
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements governing energy markets is a plus.
• Resilience and a strong work ethic are essential for success in this role.

Benefits

• Highly competitive base salary and lucrative performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and other employee benefits.
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement within a leading energy trading firm.
• Exposure to global energy markets and cutting-edge trading strategies.
• A dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment in **Stellenbosch**.
• Hybrid work model allowing for a balance between office collaboration and remote flexibility.