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Commodity Trader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Harms Oil

Dispatch Analyst

Carlisle, IA · On-site

Two or more years of relevant experience include dispatch, scheduling, commodity trading, or logistics is preferred. * Demonstrated experience solving complex problems with short turn-around times.

Alter Trading Corp

Non-Ferrous Clerk

Davenport, IA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

This process is done by weighing material, inputting the correct commodity code into the system and ... Alter Trading Corporation is a 125 year old company, with 70 scrap metal processing facilities ...

Emerson Group

Supply Chain Specialist

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

... to trade compliance (export / import and supply chain security) regulations entirely. * Optimize ... the Commodity Managers to generate and implement efficient sourcing and commodity management ...

Emerson

Supply Chain Specialist

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

... to trade compliance (export / import and supply chain security) regulations entirely. * Optimize ... the Commodity Managers to generate and implement efficient sourcing and commodity management ...

Emerson

Supply Chain Specialist

Marshalltown, IA

... to trade compliance (export / import and supply chain security) regulations entirely. * Optimize ... the Commodity Managers to generate and implement efficient sourcing and commodity management ...

IDEX

Sales Manager - OEM (remote)

Cedar Falls, IA · Remote

... on commodity price comparison. * Negotiate pricing, terms, and commercial agreements within ... Represent Viking at customer facilities, trade shows, and OEM industry events as required to ...

All JobsCommodity Trader JobsCommodity Trader Jobs in Iowa

Commodity Trader information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$61.1K

$74.2K

How much do commodity trader jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for commodity trader in Iowa is $61,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do commodity traders do?

Commodity traders buy and sell raw materials such as oil, metals, agricultural products, or energy commodities in global markets. They analyze market trends, manage risks, and execute trades through trading platforms, often requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of market regulations.

What are the main challenges a Commodity Trader faces when managing market volatility?

Commodity Traders often navigate significant market volatility due to factors like geopolitical events, supply chain disruptions, and weather patterns. Managing this volatility requires staying informed through real-time data, utilizing risk management tools such as hedging, and maintaining strong relationships with clients and suppliers. Success in this role also depends on quick decision-making and adaptability, as market conditions can change rapidly. Collaborating closely with analysts, logistics teams, and risk managers is essential to develop effective trading strategies and minimize potential losses.

Is commodity trading a good career?

Commodity trading is a competitive field that involves buying and selling raw materials like oil, metals, and agricultural products. Success requires strong analytical skills, market knowledge, and often a background in finance or economics; it can offer high earning potential but also involves significant risk and market volatility.

How much do commodity traders make?

Commodity traders' salaries vary based on experience, location, and performance, but they typically earn between $60,000 and $150,000 annually. Successful traders with strong market skills and risk management expertise can earn significantly higher bonuses and commissions, increasing total compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Commodity Trader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Commodity Trader, you need strong analytical skills, financial acumen, and a background in finance, economics, or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications such as Series 3. Familiarity with trading platforms, risk management software, and market analysis tools is essential. Excellent decision-making under pressure, negotiation skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for navigating volatile markets, managing risk, and maximizing profitable trading opportunities.

What Is a Commodity Trader?

Commodity traders buy and sell commodities for a firm or bank. Your job duties include researching current stock market trends, advising clients on investments, and keeping up with industry news. Most commodity traders receive instructions from clients before performing deals online or in-person. Since you are dealing with your client’s money, closely tracking the price of commodities is key. Many commodity traders double as financial advisors for their clients, reviewing their investment portfolios in person.

What are commodity traders?

Commodity traders are professionals who buy and sell physical goods such as oil, metals, agricultural products, or financial contracts based on these commodities. They operate in global markets, aiming to profit from price fluctuations by predicting supply and demand trends. Commodity traders can work for trading firms, banks, or independently, using a combination of market analysis, risk management, and negotiation skills. Their work plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient distribution of resources worldwide.

What is the difference between Commodity Trader vs Commodity Analyst?

AspectCommodity TraderCommodity Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or related fields; certifications like CFA are commonUsually holds a degree in economics, finance, or related areas; certifications like CFA are also beneficial
Work EnvironmentFast-paced trading floors, financial institutions, or trading firmsResearch firms, financial institutions, or corporate analysis departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by trading companies, banks, and commodity firms for buying and selling commoditiesEmployed by research firms, investment banks, and corporations for market analysis and forecasting

While both roles require strong analytical skills and knowledge of commodities, Commodity Traders focus on executing trades and managing risk in real-time, whereas Commodity Analysts conduct research and provide insights to inform trading strategies and investment decisions.

Who are the Big 4 commodity traders?

The Big 4 commodity traders are Glencore, Vitol, Cargill, and Trafigura. These companies are among the largest in the industry, handling a significant share of global trading in energy, metals, and agricultural commodities. They employ traders, analysts, and logistics professionals to manage complex supply chains and market risks.
More about Commodity Trader jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Commodity Trader jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Commodity Trader jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Commodity Trader jobs in Iowa? For Commodity Trader jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Commodity Trader jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Commodity Trader jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Commodity Trader jobs in IA? For Commodity Trader jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Commodity Trader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Commodity Trader job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,052 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Join Our Team at Trader PhD LLC!

Join Our Team at Trader PhD LLC!

Trader PhD LLC

West Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

We are an agricultural commodity advisory service in the Des Moines Metro Area, Iowa.Our company was launched ten years ago to help farmers and ranchers all across the U.S. to provide market advice, commentary, and risk management strategies.

In that time, we've been named one of the fastest-growing private companies on the Inc 5000 list, as well as been named one of Iowa's Top Workplaces.

Our core values here at Trader PhD are Accountability, Supporting Each Other, Growth Mindset and Have Fun & Be Happy. If these values resonate with you then you would be a perfect candidate to join our team!

Opportunities at Trader PhD LLC

We continuously seek individuals with skills in:

  • Sales & Business Development - Building relationships and driving revenue growth.
  • Market Analysis & Research - Providing expert insights on commodity trends.
  • Client Success & Support - Ensuring clients get the most value from our services.
  • Telemarketing & Lead Generation - Connecting with potential clients and generating leads.
  • Software & IT Support - Improving and maintaining our internal and client-facing systems.
  • Operations & Administration - Keeping our business running smoothly.

If you don't see a currently open job listing that matches your expertise, we still want to hear from you!

What We Look For

We value:

  • Strong sales, problem-solving and analytical skills
  • A proactive and results-driven mindset
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
  • A passion for financial markets, agriculture, and innovation

Why Join Trader PhD LLC?

  • Innovative & Growing Company - Be part of a team shaping the future of commodity trading.
  • Career Growth - We invest in our employees' professional development.
  • Competitive Compensation - Salaries, performance incentives, and benefits.
  • Collaborative Culture - Work with industry experts in a supportive environment.

How to Apply

Interested in joining our team? Click on the "Apply for this Job" button in the upper right. We'll keep your application on file and reach out when a suitable opportunity arises.

Be part of a company that istransforming agricultural markets-apply today!

Apply