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Derivative Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VAR concepts, and derivatives market mechanics. * Ability to perform in a fast-paced, dynamic market environment. Functional Skills Energy Commodity & Derivative Trading Negotiation Opportunity ...

Experience with derivatives, structured transactions, or hedging of environmental credit exposure * Prior experience in an integrated energy company or large commodity trading organization Functional ...

Experience with derivatives, structured transactions, or hedging of environmental credit exposure * Prior experience in an integrated energy company or large commodity trading organization Functional ...

Experience with derivatives, structured transactions, or hedging of environmental credit exposure * Prior experience in an integrated energy company or large commodity trading organization Functional ...

THE ROLE The Sr. Manager - Derivative Investments & Operations Technology is responsible for leading the successful delivery of advanced solutions across Derivative investment, trading, operations ...

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Derivative Trader information

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$53K

$101.5K

$196K

How much do derivative trader jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for derivative trader in the United States is $101,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $181,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Derivative Trader, you need strong quantitative analysis, risk management, and financial market knowledge, often supported by a degree in finance, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with trading platforms (such as Bloomberg Terminal), programming languages (like Python or R), and certifications such as CFA or FRM are typically required. Exceptional decision-making, stress management, and communication skills help traders stand out in high-pressure, fast-paced environments. These skills are crucial for making informed, timely trades while effectively managing risk and collaborating with colleagues.

What are some common challenges faced by derivative traders in their daily work?

Derivative traders often face the challenge of managing high levels of market volatility and risk, which requires quick decision-making and strong analytical skills. Keeping up with rapidly changing market conditions, regulatory updates, and technological advancements can also be demanding. Additionally, derivative traders must maintain effective communication with other team members, such as risk managers and analysts, to ensure informed trading strategies. Staying disciplined and adhering to risk limits is crucial for long-term success in this fast-paced environment.

What are derivative traders?

Derivative traders are financial professionals who buy and sell derivative contracts, such as options, futures, and swaps, which derive their value from underlying assets like stocks, commodities, or currencies. Their role involves analyzing market trends, assessing risks, and executing trades to profit from price movements or to hedge against potential losses. Derivative traders can work for investment banks, hedge funds, or as independent traders, and they require strong analytical skills, risk management expertise, and knowledge of financial markets.

How much do derivative traders make?

Derivative traders' salaries vary based on experience, location, and performance, but they typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually. Successful traders with strong analytical skills and risk management expertise can earn significantly higher bonuses and commissions. Compensation often includes base salary, performance bonuses, and profit-sharing arrangements.

Is derivative trading a good career?

Derivative trading is a specialized finance role that involves analyzing and executing trades based on financial derivatives such as options and futures. It requires strong analytical skills, understanding of markets, and risk management, often working in fast-paced environments with high stakes. Success in this career can lead to high earning potential but also involves significant risk and stress.

What is the difference between Derivative Trader vs Futures Trader?

AspectDerivative TraderFutures Trader
CertificationsOften requires FINRA licenses, Series 7, 63, or 55Typically holds similar licenses, including Series 7 and 63
Work EnvironmentWorks in trading firms, investment banks, or hedge funds, focusing on various derivativesOperates mainly in futures exchanges or trading desks specializing in futures contracts
Industry UsageCommon in financial services, hedge funds, and proprietary tradingPrimarily in commodities, financial futures, and derivatives markets

Both Derivative Traders and Futures Traders work in financial markets, often holding similar licenses and working in related environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Derivative Traders handle a broad range of derivatives like options and swaps, while Futures Traders specialize in trading futures contracts. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Derivative Trader jobs
What cities are hiring for Derivative Trader jobs? Cities with the most Derivative Trader job openings:
What states have the most Derivative Trader jobs? States with the most job openings for Derivative Trader jobs include:
Infographic showing various Derivative Trader job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,533 per year, or $48.8 per hour.
Trader - Distillate

Trader - Distillate

ExxonMobil

Spring, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 hours ago


ExxonMobil rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 220 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Job Group Capability
Trading
Job Group
Trading
Job Role Description
ExxonMobil Global Trading is seeking an experienced Distillate Trader to join our growing global distillates team. This role requires a deep understanding of the NYH market. The trading portfolio will consist of managing NYH physical and paper positions with focus on building a network of customers, high-grading tank utilization, and managing risk.
Job Role Responsibilities
  • Trade ULSD, Jet, Heating Oil, and other distillates across physical and/or paper markets.
  • Develop and execute profitable trading strategies using market fundamentals and asset optionality.
  • Manage positions, logistics, and inventory in collaboration with Operations and Scheduling teams.
  • Monitor global market trends and communicate insights across the trading organization.
  • Identify value opportunities in blending, storage, arbitrage, and freight.
  • Ensure strict compliance with company policies, regulations, and risk controls.
  • Build strong relationships with counterparties, refiners, brokers, and customers.

Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years trading experience
  • Deep knowledge of NYH customers, logistics, and market dynamics
  • Ability to develop shorts and successfully manage a terminal position with pipeline/dock connectivity
  • Strong risk management, including experience hedging physical exposures
  • Proven success trading distillates (ULSD, Jet, Heating Oil, AGO, etc.).
  • Deep understanding of supply/demand fundamentals, trade flows, and arbitrage economics.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
  • Deep understanding of commodity risk management practices, including hedging, exposure management,
  • VAR concepts, and derivatives market mechanics.
  • Ability to perform in a fast-paced, dynamic market environment.

Functional Skills
Energy Commodity & Derivative Trading
Negotiation
Opportunity & Market Identification
Trading Market Analysis
Quantitative & Technical Trading Analysis
Energy Risk Analysis & Mitigation
Strategic Contract Development
Optionality Valuation
Trading Scheduling
Deal Structuring
Financial Markets Execution
Market Pricing Mechanisms

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