Trading Assistant – Coal
Summary
Coordinate coal procurement, logistics, and contracts for a refinery, sourcing suppliers, managing shipments, and tracking market prices to ensure timely deliveries and cost efficiency.
Responsibility including but not limited to the following broad areas:
Supplier Sourcing & Procurement: Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with international coal suppliers to secure competitive term and spot contracts aligned with our refining specifications
- Supply Chain Coordination: Work closely with Operations and Logistics to manage shipping arrangements (bulk carriers, voyage charters), monitor vessel schedules, and ensure timely delivery to our refinery stockpiles.
- Internal Demand Planning: Collaborate with refinery operations and inventory teams to forecast coal requirements and align procurement plans with production schedules.
Contract Execution: Assist traders in drafting and finalizing purchase contracts, ensuring Incoterms, quality clauses, and payment terms are clearly defined and adhered to.
Market Intelligence: Monitor global coal price indices (API2, API4, Newcastle, etc.), freight rates, and supply-demand dynamics to identify optimal purchasing windows.
System & Data Management: Input purchase data into the trading system, reconcile manual records with system outputs, and prepare daily position and cost reports.
Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, surveyors, shipping agents, and internal refinery teams to resolve operational issues promptly.
Requirements:
- Experience: 1–2 years of experience in the energy or dry bulk commodities industry (coal, iron ore, freight, etc.) is preferred. Fresh graduates with strong commercial acumen are also welcome to apply.
- Industry Knowledge: Familiar with Incoterms 2020, international shipping practices, and the basics of coal quality specifications. Understanding of laytime/demurrage and letter of credit (L/C) processes is a plus.
- Language: Strong verbal and written communication skills. Fluent in English and Mandarin (to liaise with internal/external Mandarin-speaking counterparts, especially Chinese suppliers and off-takers).
- Analytical: Ability to interpret market data and conduct fundamental supply-demand analysis.
Personal Attributes:
Ability to work in a fast-paced/dynamic environment.
Meticulous, detailed, and with strong follow-through.
Motivated, disciplined, and with a strong sense of accountability.
Willing to learn and take ownership of tasks.