Energy Trader & Risk Analyst

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, seeks an experienced Energy Trader & Risk Analyst to optimize trading strategies, manage market positions and implement robust risk controls. The role blends on-site collaboration with remote work, supporting profitability across energy commodities.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in energy trading or risk analysis, a quantitative degree, and strong programming and analytical skills in Python, R, SQL and Excel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in a quantitative field.
• Minimum 5 years of energy trading or risk experience.
• Proven track record trading physical or financial energy products.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze energy market dynamics, including supply, demand, pricing and regulatory changes.
• Develop and execute trading strategies to optimize portfolio positions and profitability.
• Manage daily trading operations, including position reporting, P&L reconciliation and trade execution.
• Implement and maintain risk management policies and procedures (VaR, stress testing, scenario analysis).
• Identify, assess and report on market, credit and operational risks associated with trading.
• Develop and refine quantitative models for price forecasting, option valuation and risk assessment.
• Collaborate with finance, legal and operations teams to ensure compliance and risk mitigation.
• Prepare regular reports on trading performance, market outlook and risk exposures for senior management.
• Stay informed about industry best practices and emerging trends in energy trading.

Skills

Energy markets knowledge

Quantitative analysis

Risk management

P&L reporting

Negotiation skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering

Tools

Python

R

SQL

Excel/VBA

Job description

About the Role Our client is a dynamic independent power producer actively involved in the South African energy market, seeking an experienced Energy Trader & Risk Analyst for its operations based in Paarl, Western Cape. This pivotal role will be responsible for optimizing energy trading strategies, managing market positions, and developing robust risk management frameworks to safeguard the company's financial performance. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of energy markets, sophisticated analytical skills, and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure. You will analyze market trends, forecast price movements, and execute trades across various energy commodities. This hybrid role requires a balance of proactive market engagement and detailed risk assessment, utilizing both remote capabilities and on-site collaboration. Your expertise will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the energy trading landscape and ensuring profitability for our client in Western Cape and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze energy market dynamics, including supply, demand, pricing, and regulatory changes.
• Develop and execute trading strategies to optimize portfolio positions and maximize profitability.
• Manage daily trading operations, including position reporting, P&L reconciliation, and trade execution.
• Implement and maintain risk management policies and procedures, including VaR, stress testing, and scenario analysis.
• Identify, assess, and report on market, credit, and operational risks associated with trading activities.
• Develop and refine quantitative models for price forecasting, option valuation, and risk assessment.
• Collaborate with finance, legal, and operational teams to ensure compliance and effective risk mitigation.
• Prepare regular reports on trading performance, market outlook, and risk exposures for senior management.
• Stay informed about industry best practices and emerging trends in energy trading and risk management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in energy trading, risk management, or quantitative analysis within the energy sector.
• Proven track record in trading physical or financial energy products (e.g., electricity, natural gas, coal).
• Strong understanding of energy market structures, regulatory environments, and trading mechanisms in South Africa.
• Proficiency in quantitative modeling, statistical analysis, and risk management tools (e.g., Excel VBA, Python, R, SQL).
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure trading environment.
• Comfortable working in a hybrid model, with the ability to collaborate effectively remotely and from the Paarl, Western Cape office.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive base salary, significant performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement planning benefits. We provide opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training in financial modeling and market analysis, and encourage participation in industry forums. The hybrid work model supports a flexible lifestyle, and the role is situated in Paarl, Western Cape, a region known for its economic vitality and natural beauty.