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Full Time Trader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Real Time Power Trader

San Diego, CA · On-site

$103K - $155K/yr

Trading Jobs Worker Type: Regular Posting Start Date: August 7, 2026 Business Unit: Trading and ... For regular full-time or regular part-time employees of the Company (participating companies as ...

Position Summary We're seeking a full-time Trade Compliance Manager for our Los Angeles-based corporate office. The Trade Compliance Manager serves as the key advisor on global trade compliance ...

Trade Compliance Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $161K/yr

Position Summary We're seeking a full-time Trade Compliance Manager for our Los Angeles-based corporate office. The Trade Compliance Manager serves as the key advisor on global trade compliance ...

ENERGY TRADER - SCHEDULER

Burbank, CA · On-site

$166K - $219K/yr

Burbank, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 260675M1-5 Department: Burbank Water & Power Division ... trading with other suppliers to maximize utilization of City-owned resources and minimize costs to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Full Time Trader information

See California salary details

$39K

$95.5K

$266K

How much do full time trader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time trader in California is $95,507.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $104,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by full time traders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Full-time traders often encounter challenges such as market volatility, emotional decision-making, and maintaining consistent profitability. Managing these challenges involves adhering to a well-defined trading plan, practicing disciplined risk management, and continually analyzing both market trends and personal performance. Building a strong support network—like joining trading communities or working with mentors—can also help traders stay informed and resilient. Additionally, setting realistic goals and taking regular breaks are essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance in this demanding role.

What is the difference between Full Time Trader vs Part Time Trader?

AspectFull Time TraderPart Time Trader
CredentialsOften requires trading certifications, licenses, or financial backgroundMay have similar credentials but less emphasis on formal certifications
Work EnvironmentDedicated trading hours, full-time focus on marketsTrading during spare time, part-time hours
Employer & Industry UsageTypically employed by trading firms or trading desksOften trading independently or alongside other jobs
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for full-time trading careers or employmentSeeking part-time trading opportunities or side income

Full Time Traders commit to trading as their primary profession, often working full hours and seeking full-time employment or self-employment in trading. Part Time Traders trade during limited hours, balancing trading with other jobs or commitments. The main differences lie in work commitment, credentials, and trading environment, with full-time traders focusing solely on trading activities.

What is a full time trader?

A full time trader is a person who buys and sells financial instruments such as stocks, currencies, or commodities as their main occupation. They typically work independently or for financial institutions, dedicating most of their working hours to analyzing markets and executing trades. Full time traders use various strategies and tools to try to profit from short-term or long-term market movements. Their daily routine often involves monitoring economic news, managing risk, and constantly adapting to changing market conditions.

How much can a full-time trader make?

A full-time trader's income varies widely based on experience, skill, market conditions, and trading strategies. Successful traders can earn from a few thousand dollars per month to six figures annually, but trading also involves significant risk and potential losses. Consistent profitability often requires strong analytical skills, discipline, and risk management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time trader?

To thrive as a Full Time Trader, you need strong analytical skills, in-depth knowledge of financial markets, and a relevant degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Proficiency with trading platforms (like MetaTrader or Bloomberg Terminal), technical analysis tools, and possibly FINRA or other relevant certifications is typically required. Outstanding risk management, discipline, and decision-making under pressure are crucial soft skills that set successful traders apart. These skills and qualities are vital for making informed trades, managing risk, and adapting to fast-changing market conditions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Trader jobs in California?

The most popular types of Trader jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Full Time Trader jobs?

Cities in California with the most Full Time Trader job openings:

Real Time Power Trader

D Shell Trading Services Co

San Diego, CA • On-site

$103K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

California, United States of America


Job Family Group:

Trading Jobs


Worker Type:

Regular


Posting Start Date:

August 7, 2026


Business Unit:

Trading and Supply


Experience Level:

Early Careers


Job Description:

What's the role

Shell is looking for a Real Time Power Trader to join its team in California, San Diego.

Shell Trading integrates a world-wide trading network with an unsurpassed global portfolio in crude oil, refined products, natural gas, electrical power and chemicals. As the world's largest energy trading business, Shell Trading is a key segment of the Royal Dutch Shell portfolio, leveraging scale, global reach, talent and financial strength to compete strongly and continue to grow in the evolving energy trading market.

With trading volumes of about 14 million barrels of crude oil equivalent per day, this organization has the skill base, dedicated staff and international scope to capitalize on trading opportunities inherent in Shell's asset and market positions around the world. Member companies of the Shell Trading Network are located in North and South America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Shell Energy North America (SENA), markets energy-related products and services associated with wholesale natural gas and power marketing and trading. From start-up in the mid-1990s, this company has become one of the largest wholesale energy marketers and traders in North America. Customers include utilities, gas distribution companies, municipalities, rural electrical co-operatives, independent power producers, gas and power aggregators and large industrial customers.

Accountabilities:

  • Economic dispatch of Shell's Portfolio in CAISO, ERCOT, IESO, ISONE, PJM, MISO, NYISO, SPP, and WECC

  • Collaborate with other traders and analysts to develop and execute Bal Day / DA trading strategies

  • 24-hour monitoring of generation/load assets, transmission, natural gas usage and customer resources

  • Analyze real-time data to identify potential system problems and take corrective actions to prevent or resolve issues

  • Communicate market insights and trading opportunities to internal and external stakeholders

  • Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and internal trading policies across all markets with emphasis in ERCOT and PJM

  • Receive and maintain PJM member company dispatcher certification

What you bring

  • Must have legal authorization to work in the US on a full-time basis for anyone other than current employer

  • Bachelor's Degree required

  • Minimum 2 years of experience in power markets

  • Experience with E-Tags is preferred

  • Deep understanding of energy markets and trading strategies

  • Experience in power trading and/or scheduling

  • Experience with code-based analytics is a plus

  • Ability to work 12-hour shifts, including nights

  • Strong analytical skills and problem-solving aptitude

  • High level of attention to detail and accuracy

  • Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment with strict daily and hourly deadlines

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Self-starter with strong computer skills

  • Self-motivated individual who functions well in an operational team environment

What we offer

The base salary range for this position is $103,000 - $155,000 per year. Individual pay will be based on various factors, such as relevant work experience, education, certifications, skill level, seniority, and internal equity.

For regular full-time or regular part-time employees of the Company (participating companies as listed in the Summary Plan Description), insurance coverage options include medical, dental, vision coverage, life Insurance, Business Travel Accident Insurance, and Occupational Accidental Death Benefit programs. Employees also participate in a company pension plan and a 401(k) plan. Paid leave includes up to 6 weeks of paid vacation time, up to 11 paid holidays, and parental leave offering 16 weeks of paid leave for birthing parents, and 8 weeks of paid leave for non-birthing parents.

Additionally, employees are eligible for short-term disability leave for up to 26 weeks at 100% or 50% of base pay as well as Long-Term Disability insurance. Shell also offers other compensation such financial reimbursement for adoption, wellness, education, and personal learning expenses, and some roles are eligible for discretionary long-term incentives. For interns, eligible benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, Business Travel Accident Insurance, and Occupational Accidental Death Benefit programs; participation in a 401(k) plan; and paid leave for up to 11 paid holidays. Additional information on Shell's US benefit programs can be found at https://www.shell.us/careers/about-careers-at-shell/rewards-and-benefits.html.

You bring your skills and experience to Shell and in return you work with talented, committed people on one of the most important challenges facing our planet. You'll have the opportunity to develop the skills you need to grow in an environment where we value honesty, integrity, and respect for one another. You'll be able to balance your priorities as you become the best version of yourself.

  • Progress as a person as we work on the energy transition together

  • Continuously grow the transferable skills you need to get ahead

  • Work at the forefront of technology, trends, and practices

  • Collaborate with experienced colleagues with unique expertise

  • Achieve your balance in a values-led culture that encourages you to be the best version of yourself

  • Benefit from flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote/mobile working

  • Perform at your best with a competitive starting salary and annual performance related salary increase - our pay and benefits packages are considered to be among the best in the world.

  • Take advantage of paid parental leave, including for non-birthing parents

  • Join an organization working to become one of the most diverse and inclusive in the world. We strongly encourage applicants of all genders, ages, ethnicities, cultures, abilities, sexual orientation, and life experiences to apply

  • Grow as you progress through diverse career opportunities in national and international teams

  • Gain access to a wide range of training and development programs

We'd like you to know that Shell has a bold goal: to become one of the world's most diverse and inclusive companies. You can get to know more about how we're working towards that goal, click here.

Shell in The United States

Shell has been in the US for more than 100 years, leading the sector in energy, petrochemicals and refined products. Today, we provide millions of Americans with the energy needed to heat and cool their homes and power the economy.

We operate in all 50 states, from our Deepwater platforms in the Gulf of America to the Pennsylvania Chemicals complex and our miles of pipelines throughout the US.

We reach our customers through our 13,000 branded retail stations, and we are number 1 in gasoline sales. We also own the #1 brand of motor oil in the U.S. - Pennzoil - made from natural gas.

We are excited to play a key role in the move to net carbon emissions while providing the oil and gas needed by society for many decades to come.

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DISCLAIMER:

Please note: We occasionally amend or withdraw Shell jobs and reserve the right to do so at any time, including prior to the advertised closing date. Before applying, you are advised to read our data protection policy. This policy describes the processing that may be associated with your personal data and informs you that your personal data may be transferred to Shell/Shell Group companies around the world. The Shell Group and its approved recruitment consultants will never ask you for a fee to process or consider your application for a career with Shell. Anyone who demands such a fee is not an authorised Shell representative and you are strongly advised to refuse any such demand. Shell participates in E-Verify. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, citizenship, genetic information or other protected status under federal, state or local laws. Shell is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disability. As a US Federal Contractor, hiring selections are subject to periodic audit review and documentation of your selections should be maintained for a period of three calendar years. It is the policy of Shell in the U.S. ("Shell") to provide equal opportunity to all individuals, employees and all qualified applicants for employment consistent with employment requirements and qualifications. Shell prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, citizenship, genetic information, or other protected status under federal, state or local laws. All employees are expected to support this policy and contribute to an environment of equal opportunity. If you need an accommodation for a disability during the resourcing process, please speak with an HR representative.