Energy Trader - Power Markets

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Relocation assistance

Performance-based bonus

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Energy Trader in George, Western Cape. You will actively participate in wholesale electricity markets, optimize trading strategies, and manage risks associated with energy procurement and sales.

The role requires deep market understanding, advanced quantitative skills, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions while collaborating with commercial and risk teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering or related quantitative field.
• Minimum 5 years of energy trading or related analytical experience.
• Proven experience with electricity market trading (intraday, day-ahead, balancing).
• Strong understanding of energy markets, regulatory frameworks and trading operations.
• Excellent analytical and quantitative skills with data interpretation.
• Proficiency with trading platforms and market data analysis tools.
• Ability to work under pressure and make informed decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Knowledge of energy market products and derivatives is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute trading strategies in electricity markets.
• Monitor real-time market conditions to identify opportunities.
• Analyze market trends and fundamentals to inform decisions.
• Execute trades via platforms and communicate with brokers.
• Manage and mitigate trading risks (price, volume, operational).
• Collaborate with risk management to ensure policy compliance.
• Prepare reports on trading activities and profitability.
• Forecast energy demand and supply to optimize positions.
• Build relationships with market participants and regulators.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes affecting trading.

Skills

Energy trading

Market analysis

Risk management

Quantitative analysis

Communication

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance/Economics/Mathematics/Engineering

Tools

Trading platforms

Market data tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prominent player in the energy sector, seeking a highly analytical and results-oriented Energy Trader to join their team in George, Western Cape. This role involves actively participating in wholesale electricity markets, optimizing trading strategies, and managing risks associated with energy procurement and sales. You will be responsible for monitoring market dynamics, identifying trading opportunities, and executing trades to maximize profitability while adhering to strict risk management frameworks. This position requires a deep understanding of market fundamentals, regulatory environments, and advanced trading techniques. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional quantitative skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure. You will work closely with the commercial and risk management teams to ensure the company's energy portfolio is managed effectively and efficiently, contributing significantly to the organization's financial performance. This is a critical role within the company's commercial operations, demanding a proactive and strategic approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute short-term and long-term trading strategies in electricity markets.
• Monitor real-time market conditions, news, and data to identify profitable trading opportunities.
• Analyze market trends, supply and demand fundamentals, and price movements to inform trading decisions.
• Execute trades through various platforms and communicate effectively with brokers and market participants.
• Manage and mitigate trading risks, including price, volume, and operational risks.
• Collaborate with the risk management team to ensure compliance with trading policies and limits.
• Prepare regular reports on trading activities, market performance, and profitability.
• Forecast energy demand and supply to optimize trading positions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with market participants, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes and market rule modifications impacting energy trading.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in energy trading, financial markets, or a closely related analytical role.
• Proven experience with electricity market trading, including intraday, day-ahead, and balancing markets.
• Strong understanding of energy market structures, regulatory frameworks, and commercial operations.
• Excellent analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and financial models.
• Proficiency in trading platforms and market data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively under pressure and make sound decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Experience with risk management principles and practices in trading environments.
• Knowledge of energy market products and derivatives is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the energy sector.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between office and remote work.
• Exposure to dynamic and challenging market environments.
• Collaborative and supportive team culture.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• Annual performance reviews and salary adjustments.