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Physical Commodity Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... commodity price structures, etc.). The ideal candidate is able to utilize a strong working knowledge of the US physical and financial natural gas markets within the Gulf Coast Midcon, West and ...

... commodity price structures, etc.). The ideal candidate is able to utilize a strong working knowledge of the US physical and financial natural gas markets within the Gulf Coast Midcon, West and ...

Working conditions are an office environment with minimal physical exertion. Preferred ... Lumber trader and panel experience preferred. Previous experience in a lumber-related purchasing ...

... commodity price structures, etc.). The ideal candidate is able to utilize a strong working knowledge of the US physical and financial natural gas markets within the Gulf Coast Midcon, West and ...

Energy Trader 1/2

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$102K - $146.70K/yr

... both physical and financial positions covering periods from the prompt month to the real-time ... commodity trading strategies. (20%) Monitors regional energy markets including energy prices ...

New

Commodity Product Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24.71 - $47.98/hr

Working conditions are an office environment with minimal physical exertion. Preferred ... Lumber trader and panel experience preferred. Previous experience in a lumber-related purchasing ...

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Physical Commodity Trader information

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$49.5K

$65K

$79K

How much do physical commodity trader jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical commodity trader in the United States is $64,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Physical Commodity Trader, you need strong analytical skills, market knowledge, and a background in finance, economics, or a related field. Proficiency with trading platforms, risk management software, and familiarity with contracts and logistics systems is typically required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building abilities set standout traders apart. These competencies are crucial for navigating volatile markets, managing risk, and securing profitable deals in a highly competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Physical Commodity Traders in managing logistics and supply chain risks?

Physical Commodity Traders often encounter challenges related to transportation delays, fluctuating shipping costs, and geopolitical risks that can disrupt supply chains. Managing inventory, ensuring timely delivery, and maintaining strong relationships with logistics providers are essential to minimize these risks. Traders must stay agile and informed, leveraging real-time market data and collaborating closely with operations teams to anticipate and address potential bottlenecks or disruptions.

What is a physical commodity trader?

A physical commodity trader is a professional who buys and sells tangible goods such as oil, metals, grains, or other raw materials. Unlike financial traders who deal with paper contracts, physical commodity traders handle the actual movement and delivery of goods. They negotiate deals, arrange logistics, manage risk, and ensure that commodities reach their destinations on time. Their work involves understanding global markets, supply chains, and the fundamentals of the commodities they trade.

Who are the big 4 commodity traders?

The Big Four commodity trading companies are Vitol, Glencore, Trafigura, and Cargill. These firms are among the largest in the industry, handling a significant share of global physical commodity trading, including energy, metals, and agricultural products. They often employ physical commodity traders who manage logistics, risk, and market analysis.

What is the difference between Physical Commodity Trader vs Commodity Analyst?

AspectPhysical Commodity TraderCommodity Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in finance, economics, or related fields; certifications like CFA are commonUsually holds degrees in economics, finance, or business; certifications like CFA are also beneficial
Work EnvironmentActive trading floors, offices, and field sites; involves negotiation and logisticsOffice-based research, data analysis, and reporting
Industry UsageCommonly employed in trading companies, energy firms, and commodities firmsFound in investment banks, research firms, and consulting companies

While both roles involve understanding commodities markets, Physical Commodity Traders focus on buying, selling, and logistics of physical goods, whereas Commodity Analysts analyze market data to provide insights and forecasts. The roles often overlap in industry knowledge but differ in daily responsibilities and skill sets.

More about Physical Commodity Trader jobs
What cities are hiring for Physical Commodity Trader jobs? Cities with the most Physical Commodity Trader job openings:
What states have the most Physical Commodity Trader jobs? States with the most job openings for Physical Commodity Trader jobs include:
Infographic showing various Physical Commodity Trader job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $64,999 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
Gas Trader

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Welcome to the intersection of energy and home services. At NRG, we're all about propelling the next generation of leaders forward. We are driven by our passion to create a smarter, cleaner and more connected future. We deliver innovative solutions that make our customers' lives easier-helping them power, protect, and intelligently manage their homes and businesses. To do this, we need creative and talented people to join our company.

We offer a dynamic work environment and a unified and inclusive culture. NRG fosters a strong sense of belonging that leads to better collaboration and business performance. Our company programs are designed to help employees develop the skills they need for success now and in the future. In everything we do, we aim to champion our employees and bring value to our customers, investors and society.

More information is available at www.nrg.com. Connect with NRG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

The Natural Gas Trader will be responsible for identifying and transacting physical gas trading opportunities within the Gulf Coast, Midcon West and surrounding regions that enhance the portfolio and provide economic benefits to the company.  This role involves analyzing market trends, executing trades, and developing strategies to maximize profitability while managing risk.  This individual's focus is to collaborate with other traders as well as the origination team to profitably grow our gas business, provide input into the evaluation as well as facilitate the execution of structured transactions (i.e., asset management arrangements, capacity related transactions, cross commodity price structures, etc.).  The ideal candidate is able to utilize a strong working knowledge of the US physical and financial natural gas markets within the Gulf Coast Midcon, West and surrounding regions to generate profits as well as to capture arbitrage opportunities. He or she must have an understanding and working knowledge of the natural gas infrastructure, including pipeline flows, production and storage assets, and other factors that impact/ affect commodity prices within the identified area.

Key Accountabilities:

  1. Analyze market conditions, price trends and supply-demand dynamics for natural gas in the Gulf Coast, Midcon, West and surrounding regions.
  2. Develop and implement strategies to capitalize on market opportunities and achieve financial targets.
  3. Monitor regional and global energy market developments and assess their impact on region.
  4. Identity new markets and opportunities that provide growth potential in the Gulf Coast, Midcon and West

 

Responsibilities:

  1. Execute physical and financial gas trades to support and advance the company's natural gas business objectives in the Gulf Coast, Midcon, West and surrounding regions.
  2. Negotiate trade terms with counterparties, including commodity pricing, volume, and delivery requirements and ensure that all trades executed comply with company policies and regulatory requirements.
  3. Work with the various teams within NRG to develop unique product offerings and provide exceptional services to customers and counterparties.
  4. Identify and assess market risks associated with trading activities.
  5. Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate exposure to price fluctuations and other market risk.
  6. Monitor and manage trading positions to align with risk management policies.
  7. Track and report on trading performance, including profit and loss, and market positions.
  8. Analyze trading results and provide recommendations for future trading strategies.
  9. Ensure adherence to all relevant regulations, industry standards and company policies.
  10. Maintain accurate records of trading activities for audit and compliance purposes.
  11. Work with other NRG staff to effectively maximize the company's position and strategy in the market, including participation in market regulatory and policy directions.
  12. Comply with all laws and regulations as well as internal NRG policies.

Skills:

  1. Proficient in trading platforms, market analysis tools and modeling.
  2. Strong analytical skills to interpret market data.
  3. Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
  4. Ability to work under pressure and make decisions in a challenging environment.
  5. Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements for gas trading.

Qualifications:

  1. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business, Engineering, or a related field with a minimum 3-5 years of work experience in natural gas trading or a related field with a focus on physical gas markets.
  2. Strong understanding of natural gas markets, financial products, physical pipeline flows within the Gulf Coast, Midcon, West and surrounding regions and structured transactions.
  3. Existing strong relationships with key counterparties a significant plus.

NRG Energy is committed to a drug and alcohol-free workplace. To the extent permitted by law and any applicable collective bargaining agreement, employees are subject to periodic random drug testing, and post-accident and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing. EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability. Level, Title and/or Salary may be adjusted based on the applicant's experience or skills.

Official description on file with Talent.


NRG logo

About NRG

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At NRG, we're bringing the power of energy to people and organizations by putting customers at the center of everything we do. We generate electricity and provide energy solutions and natural gas to millions of customers through our diverse portfolio of retail brands. A Fortune 500 company, operating in the United States and Canada, NRG delivers innovative solutions while advocating for competitive energy markets and customer choice, working towards a sustainable energy future. More information is available at www.nrg.com. Connect with NRG on Facebook, LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter @nrgenergy.

Industry

Oil and coal products manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US