Senior Crude Trader – Marathon Petroleum, Houston, TX

Role Overview

The Senior Crude Trader position at Marathon Petroleum in Houston, Texas, offers an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated individual to contribute to the company’s crude oil supply business. As part of the Supply Trading & Origination organization, the Senior Crude Trader will be responsible for negotiating pricing and terms for the purchase and sale of crude oil, aligning with refinery economics, market conditions, and logistical requirements. This role demands a keen commercial aptitude and interest in a dynamic and critical function within the company.

Day in the Life

A typical day for a Senior Crude Trader involves:

• Market Monitoring: Staying informed about market trends, pricing fluctuations, and industry news to identify opportunities for profitable trades.
• Negotiation: Negotiating with suppliers and buyers to secure favorable terms for crude oil purchases and sales.
• Collaboration: Working closely with various internal teams, including Schedulers, Refinery Feedstock Coordinators, Accountants, Engineers, and Legal, to ensure smooth operations.
• Strategy Development: Developing and implementing trading strategies to optimize value from crude oil purchases, sales, and logistics.
• Risk Management: Managing commodity exposure and physical inventory positions to mitigate risks and maximize market structure value.
• Trade Execution: Executing trades and managing the associated logistics, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
• Relationship Building: Maintaining and building relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including industry contacts and representatives.
• Analysis: Analyzing data and market information to make informed trading decisions.
• Reporting: Preparing reports on trading activities and market conditions for management review.

Why Houston, Texas?

Houston is the energy capital of the world, making it an ideal location for a career in crude oil trading. The city offers:

• Industry Hub: A concentration of energy companies and industry professionals, providing ample networking and career advancement opportunities.
• Economic Stability: A strong and diverse economy supported by the energy sector and other industries.
• Quality of Life: A vibrant cultural scene, affordable housing, and access to excellent schools and healthcare facilities.
• Transportation: A well-developed infrastructure with easy access to major transportation hubs, including ports, pipelines, and airports.

Career Path

Marathon Petroleum provides ample opportunities for career growth and advancement. A Senior Crude Trader can progress to:

• Lead Trader: Overseeing a team of traders and managing a larger portfolio of trading activities.
• Trading Manager: Leading a trading desk and developing trading strategies for a specific region or product.
• Director of Trading: Managing all trading activities for a business unit and contributing to the company’s overall trading strategy.
• Vice President of Supply & Trading: Overseeing all supply and trading operations for the company.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Senior Crude Trader in Houston, Texas, is between $130,000 and $210,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Marathon Petroleum also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision).
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays).
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA).
• Wellness programs and resources.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• Tuition reimbursement for continuing education.
• Professional development opportunities.

Marathon Petroleum Culture

Marathon Petroleum is committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment. The company values:

• Safety: Prioritizing the safety of employees, communities, and the environment.
• Integrity: Conducting business with honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior.
• Respect: Treating all individuals with dignity and valuing diverse perspectives.
• Collaboration: Working together to achieve common goals and share knowledge.
• Innovation: Encouraging creativity and continuous improvement.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply for the Senior Crude Trader position through the Marathon Petroleum careers website. The application process typically involves:

• Submitting an online application with a resume and cover letter.
• Completing an online assessment (if required).
• Participating in interviews with hiring managers and team members.
• Undergoing a background check and drug screening.

FAQ

1. What qualifications are required for the Senior Crude Trader position? A bachelor’s degree in business, finance, marketing, economics, accounting, or a related field, plus 5+ years of experience in a commercial role, trading, or marketing.
2. What are the key responsibilities of a Senior Crude Trader? Developing and implementing negotiating tactics, arranging crude oil purchases and sales, managing logistical requirements, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.
3. What is the salary range for a Senior Crude Trader in Houston, Texas? The estimated salary range is between $130,000 and $210,000 per year.
4. What benefits does Marathon Petroleum offer? A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement savings plan, and tuition reimbursement.
5. What is the company culture like at Marathon Petroleum? Collaborative, inclusive, and focused on safety, integrity, respect, and innovation.
6. What career paths are available for a Senior Crude Trader? Progression to Lead Trader, Trading Manager, Director of Trading, or Vice President of Supply & Trading.
7. Why is Houston, Texas, a good location for this role? Houston is the energy capital of the world, offering a concentration of industry professionals, economic stability, and a high quality of life.
8. What skills are important for success in this role? Strong negotiation, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
9. How can I prepare for the interview process? Research the company, understand the role requirements, and be prepared to discuss your experience and skills in detail.
10. What is the work-life balance like at Marathon Petroleum? The company offers work-life balance initiatives and strives to create a supportive environment for employees.