Supply Trading Specialist - Propane: A Comprehensive Overview

Role Overview

The Supply Trading Specialist - Propane role at Marathon Petroleum (MPC) is a critical function within the company's supply, trading, and optimization (ST&O) operations. This specialist is responsible for optimizing enterprise-wide value across the propane supply chain, particularly focusing on the MPLX frac and MPC refining locations. The role demands a deep understanding of market conditions, short-term supply and sales planning, and the ability to execute strategies that maximize commercial value. This involves identifying and implementing value-enhancing opportunities such as exchanges, term sales and purchases, freight optimization, yield adjustments, and import/export activities. The specialist also explores business development opportunities beyond core trading, such as storage, blending, and rail, pipeline, and truck freight deals.

A Day in the Life

A typical day for a Propane Trading Specialist might include: * **Market Monitoring:** Analyzing propane market trends, supply/demand dynamics, and competitive activities. * **Collaboration:** Working with ST&O, VCO, MPC Refining, MPLX, Credit, Legal, and Accounting teams. * **Plan Development:** Shaping and refining short-term supply and sales plans. * **Opportunity Identification:** Identifying potential value-enhancing opportunities, such as exchanges or freight optimization. * **Relationship Building:** Interacting with internal and external counterparties. * **Reporting:** Preparing market intelligence reports. * **Contract Management:** Assisting in contract preparation and ensuring regulatory compliance. * **Negotiation:** Participating in commercial negotiations and dispute resolution. * **Business Development:** Evaluating and pursuing new business opportunities in storage, blending, and freight.

Why Findlay, Ohio, Denver, Colorado, and San Antonio, Texas?

These locations are strategic hubs for Marathon Petroleum's operations. Findlay, Ohio, serves as MPC's headquarters and a key operational center. Denver, Colorado, and San Antonio, Texas, are located in regions with significant energy infrastructure and access to propane supply and markets. These locations offer: * **Career Growth:** Opportunities for advancement within MPC. * **Industry Exposure:** Immersion in the energy sector. * **Quality of Life:** Access to diverse communities, cultural amenities, and recreational activities. Findlay offers a balanced lifestyle with a lower cost of living, while Denver and San Antonio provide vibrant urban environments.

Career Path

The Supply Trading Specialist role can serve as a stepping stone to various career paths within Marathon Petroleum, including: * **Senior Supply Trading Specialist:** With increased experience and expertise. * **Trading Manager:** Overseeing a team of traders and managing a larger portfolio. * **Supply Chain Manager:** Focusing on the broader supply chain optimization. * **Business Development Manager:** Leading efforts to identify and develop new business opportunities. * **Commercial Manager:** Managing commercial relationships and contracts.

Salary & Benefits

While the exact salary range is not explicitly stated, a Supply Trading Specialist - Propane role in locations like Findlay, Denver, and San Antonio can expect a competitive salary. Based on market research, the salary range typically falls between $90,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and performance. This includes: * **Base Salary:** A competitive annual salary. * **Bonus Potential:** Performance-based bonus opportunities. * **Benefits Package:** A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and employee assistance programs. Specific details of the benefits package are usually provided during the hiring process.

MPC Culture

Marathon Petroleum is committed to creating a workplace that values diversity, collaboration, and innovation. The company fosters a culture that encourages employees to: * **Contribute:** Share their ideas and perspectives. * **Learn:** Develop their skills and knowledge. * **Grow:** Advance their careers. * **Collaborate:** Work effectively as part of a team. * **Innovate:** Identify and implement new solutions. MPC emphasizes safety, environmental stewardship, and ethical conduct in all its operations.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply for the Supply Trading Specialist - Propane position through the Marathon Petroleum careers website. The application process typically involves: * **Online Application:** Submitting a resume and cover letter. * **Screening:** Initial review of applications by HR. * **Interviews:** Conducting phone and in-person interviews with hiring managers and team members. * **Assessment:** Completing skills assessments or personality questionnaires. * **Offer:** Receiving a job offer and completing the onboarding process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. **What are the key skills for a Propane Trading Specialist?** Key skills include propane trading knowledge, market analysis, contract negotiation, relationship management, and business development. 2. **What is the typical career path for this role?** The role can lead to Senior Trading Specialist, Trading Manager, or Supply Chain Manager roles. 3. **What is the company culture like at Marathon Petroleum?** MPC fosters a culture of diversity, collaboration, innovation, and ethical conduct. 4. **What benefits does Marathon Petroleum offer?** MPC offers a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. 5. **What are the education requirements for this position?** A Bachelor’s Degree is required. 6. **How much experience is required for this role?** Three or more years of experience for the Supply Trading Specialist role, and five or more years for the Senior Supply Trading Specialist role. 7. **What are the main responsibilities of a Propane Trading Specialist?** Optimizing the propane supply chain, evaluating market conditions, and implementing value-enhancing strategies. 8. **What is the salary range for this position?** The salary range is estimated to be between $90,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience and location. 9. **Where are the potential locations for this role?** Findlay, Ohio, Denver, Colorado, and San Antonio, Texas. 10. **How do I apply for this position?** Through the Marathon Petroleum careers website.