Senior Research Analyst & Derivatives Trader
Location: Houston, Texas
Industry: Maritime / Energy Transportation
Compensation: Competitive salary, bonus potential, and full benefits
A leading global maritime transportation organization is seeking a Senior Research Analyst & Derivatives Trader to support commercial strategy and risk management initiatives within its tanker fleet operations.
This position combines advanced freight market research and analytics with active derivatives trading execution, supporting freight, fuel, and commodity risk management strategies. The role plays an important part in translating market intelligence into actionable hedging and trading strategies that support fleet optimization and earnings stability.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct detailed research and analysis on tanker freight markets, global oil and refined product flows, bunker markets, and macroeconomic drivers affecting maritime transportation.
Develop forward-looking market views and scenario analysis to support commercial strategy and fleet deployment decisions.
Maintain analytical models and market databases tracking freight rates, time-charter equivalents (TCE), fuel exposure, and volatility trends.
Execute and manage freight derivatives (FFAs), fuel hedges, and related commodity derivatives in line with internal risk management frameworks.
Monitor trading positions, P&L, margin requirements, and counterparty exposure while ensuring accurate trade capture and reporting.
Collaborate with commercial, chartering, and asset management teams to align trading strategies with fleet operations and market positioning.
Produce research reports and market briefings for senior commercial leadership.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Maritime Studies, Logistics, or a related discipline.
3+ years of experience in shipping markets, freight research, commodity trading, or financial market analysis.
Strong knowledge of tanker markets and derivatives instruments including FFAs, swaps, and options.
Advanced analytical skills with experience using Excel and data analytics tools such as Python, VBA, or Power BI.
Strong communication skills and the ability to translate complex market analysis into actionable insights.
This position offers the opportunity to join a highly sophisticated commercial platform within the global shipping and energy transportation sector.