Freight Trading Assistant

Position Overview

As a Freight Trading Assistant, you will support the commercial shipping function within a global agricultural commodities trading environment. You will work closely with freight traders, operators, and cross-functional teams to assist in chartering activities, vessel operations, market analysis, and post-fixture processes.

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or candidate with up to 2–3 years of relevant experience looking to build a career in freight trading and dry bulk shipping.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the freight team in executing chartering strategies and day-to-day vessel operations

• Monitor vessel positions and movements using AIS platforms and internal systems

• Assist in fixture recap preparation, nominations, charter party drafting, and post-fixture administration

• Collect, track, and analyse freight market data (e.g., Baltic indices, bunker prices, vessel supply trends)

• Conduct market research on dry bulk commodities and trade flows to support commercial decisions

• Assist in preparing voyage estimates, P&L calculations, and freight exposure reports

• Liaise with shipowners, brokers, agents, and port service providers to ensure smooth operations

• Maintain internal databases and contribute to reporting accuracy and process efficiency

• Support digitalisation and process improvement initiatives within the freight team

Learning & Development Opportunities

• Exposure to global dry bulk shipping markets and chartering practices

• Hands-on involvement in voyage execution and freight trading processes

• Understanding of the end-to-end agri-commodity supply chain

• Development of commercial awareness, analytical skills, and negotiation exposure

• Mentorship from experienced chartering and operations professionals

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Logistics, Business, Economics, or a related field

• 0–3 years of experience in shipping, chartering, operations, or commodity trading (internship experience is acceptable for fresh graduates)

• Strong interest in global trade, commodities, and freight markets

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint (knowledge of VBA or data tools is a plus)

• Familiarity with AIS tracking systems or freight platforms (e.g., IMOS) is advantageous

• Strong analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail

• Proactive, adaptable, and able to work in a fast-paced environment

• Good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work across teams

• Strong written and verbal communication in English (Mandarin or other languages are an advantage in trading environments)

What We Offer

• A dynamic and commercially driven international trading environment

• Direct exposure to chartering and freight trading activities

• Mentorship from experienced professionals

• Opportunities to take ownership and contribute to real commercial decisions