Freight Trader – Houston, TX
A leading global energy and commodities organization is seeking an experienced Freight Trader to join its Houston-based trading team. This role will focus on tanker freight trading, managing freight exposure, optimizing vessel utilization, and supporting physical crude oil and refined products trading activity across international markets.

The ideal candidate will possess strong commercial instincts, deep understanding of global tanker freight markets, and the ability to operate in a fast-paced trading environment.

Key Responsibilities
Execute freight trading strategies within the global tanker market
Manage freight exposure related to crude oil and refined product cargo movements
Negotiate voyage and time charter agreements with shipowners and brokers
Develop and maintain relationships with tanker owners, brokers, charterers, and market participants
Monitor tanker market trends, vessel supply/demand dynamics, bunker pricing, and geopolitical developments impacting freight markets
Work closely with trading, operations, scheduling, and risk teams to optimize transportation economics
Identify arbitrage and optimization opportunities across regional and international tanker trades
Analyze freight derivatives, forward freight agreements (FFAs), and hedging opportunities where applicable
Support vessel scheduling and operational decision-making to maximize profitability and minimize risk
Prepare market intelligence reports, freight assessments, and trading recommendations for senior leadership
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Supply Chain, Economics, Finance, Business, or related field preferred
Minimum 5+ years of experience in tanker freight trading, tanker chartering, or commercial shipping
Strong understanding of global crude oil and refined products tanker markets
Experience with voyage calculations, charter party terms, demurrage, and freight economics
Existing relationships within the tanker shipping and commodity trading sectors strongly preferred
Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure trading environment
Proficiency with freight market platforms and Microsoft Excel
Must be currently authorized to work in the US, no visa or sponsorship at this time
Preferred Experience
Experience working within a commodity trading house, tanker owner/operator, energy company, or major chartering organization
Knowledge of tanker freight derivatives and risk management tools is a plus
Exposure to VLCC, Suezmax, Aframax, LR, and MR tanker markets preferred
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonus structure
Comprehensive benefits package
Long-term growth opportunity within a global trading environment
Location
Houston, Texas

About the Opportunity
This is an opportunity to join a highly commercial and entrepreneurial trading environment with significant exposure to international tanker markets, freight strategy, and global crude oil and refined products transportation. The role offers strong visibility, market exposure, and career advancement potential within the global energy and maritime sectors.