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Metals Trader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Metals Trader information

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$39K

$95.5K

$266K

How much do metals trader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for metals 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 is a metals trader?

A Metals Trader buys and sells various types of metals—such as gold, silver, copper, and aluminum—on behalf of clients, companies, or financial institutions. They analyze market trends, economic indicators, and geopolitical factors to make informed trading decisions. Metals Traders may work in physical commodities markets or financial markets, dealing with futures contracts and derivatives. Their goal is to maximize profits while managing risks associated with price fluctuations.

What does a metals trader do?

A typical day for a Metals Trader involves monitoring global market trends, executing buy and sell orders, analyzing price movements, and managing client or company portfolios. You’ll frequently communicate with other traders, analysts, and clients to share insights and secure favorable trades. The work is fast-paced and requires quick, informed decision-making throughout the trading day. Collaboration with risk management and operations teams is common to ensure compliance and minimize exposure. Over time, successful traders often gain opportunities for advancement into senior trading or portfolio management roles.

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

To excel as a Metals Trader, you need strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of commodities markets, and typically a degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Proficiency with trading platforms, market analysis tools such as Bloomberg Terminal, and relevant certifications like Series 7 or Series 3 are highly valued. Outstanding negotiation, decision-making, and stress management abilities will help you stand out in this competitive environment. These competencies enable effective risk management, quick decision-making, and successful trading outcomes in dynamic global markets.

How much do metals traders make?

Metals traders typically earn between $60,000 and $150,000 annually, with experienced professionals and those working in major financial centers earning higher salaries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and commissions, and success depends on market knowledge, negotiation skills, and risk management abilities.

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

The most popular types of Metals Trader jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Metals Trader jobs in California?

For Metals Trader jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Metals Trader jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Metals Trader jobs in California are:

Metals Trader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metals Trader job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,507 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

West Coast Trader - Metals, Fiber & Plastics

VIPA

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description


West Coast Trader - Metals, Fiber & PlasticsWest Coast, USA / On-site & Remote | Ref: WCT - 0826



Want to build a business instead of just manage a book?

We are looking for an ambitious, entrepreneurial West Coast Trader to join our growing team and help expand our presence across the U.S. recycling and recovered materials markets.


We are especially interested in someone with experience (preferably in metals), a trader who understands commodities, knows how to build relationships, can identify an opportunity and is not afraid to pick up the phone and make a deal.


You don't need to be an expert in every commodity on day one.


What matters most is that you understand how trading works, how to develop relationships, how to negotiate, and how to find opportunities. We will help you build on your experience and expand to other commodities.


What you'll do

This is a hands-on trading and business development role. You will have the opportunity to:

  • Grow our West Coast Presence by developing new suppliers, customers and trading opportunities.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, customers, processors and other industry partners.
  • Identify new market opportunities and develop strategies to grow volume and profitability.
  • Purchase and sell recyclable and recovered commodities while monitoring changing market conditions.
  • Leverage your metals experience while expanding your knowledge into recovered fiber and plastics.
  • Visit suppliers, processing facilities and customers to develop relationships and better understand their operations.
  • Negotiate pricing, quality, freight and commercial terms.
  • Monitor commodity markets and use that information to make smart purchasing and selling decisions.
  • Work closely with our operations, logistics and commercial teams to make sure transactions are executed successfully.
  • Help identify new opportunities, new markets and new ways for the company to grow.


This is a field-driven trading role

Relationships are at the heart of commodity trading. We want someone who enjoys getting out from behind the desk, meeting people and seeing the business firsthand.


The successful candidate should have 50-60% travel availability, including regular travel throughout the West Coast and other relevant markets to meet suppliers, customers and industry partners and visit processing facilities.


Travel expenses are paid by VIPA.


Who we are looking for

We're less interested in checking every box and more interested in finding the right trader.


You may be a great fit if you:


  • Have experience in metals, recycling, commodities or another related trading environment.
  • Have a strong understanding of buying, selling, pricing and negotiating commodities.
  • Are naturally competitive and motivated by finding and closing deals.
  • Know how to build relationships and earn trust with suppliers and customers.
  • Are comfortable working independently and taking ownership of your results.
  • Have strong analytical and numerical skills and pay close attention to the details.
  • Are adaptable and comfortable operating in a fast-moving market.
  • Are comfortable with 50-60% business travel.
  • Want to grow beyond your current commodity expertise and learn fiber and plastics.


Why VIPA?Great people. Great leadership. A global business. Real opportunity


VIPA is an international company with a strong position in the global recycling and recovered materials industry.
We are one of the top exporters in our industry, giving our team the opportunity to work in a truly global trading environment.


But what really makes VIPA different is our people.


You'll work with strong leadership and a great team that values collaboration, initiative and getting things done. We believe in supporting our employees and giving them the opportunity to grow.


You'll also have the resources and reach of an established international trading company while working in an environment where your individual contribution matters.


Only candidates currently residing in the US will be considered