Physical Operator (Petrochemicals & Energy Trading)

Job Description

Our client is seeking a detail-oriented Physical Operator to support the end-to-end execution of physical commodity trades within the petrochemicals and energy trading business. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating cargo movements, vessel operations, trade documentation, and settlement activities to ensure smooth and timely execution of physical transactions.

This role requires close collaboration with traders, counterparties, shipping agents, terminals, surveyors, finance teams and banks to ensure operational excellence throughout the trade lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate end-to-end execution of physical commodity trades from contract execution through cargo delivery and final settlement.
• Manage vessel nominations, cargo scheduling, loading and discharge activities while monitoring shipment progress.
• Prepare, review and manage shipping and trade documentation, including Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, commercial invoices and other contractual documents.
• Coordinate Letters of Credit (LC), banking documentation and payment-related activities.
• Liaise with shipping agents, surveyors, inspectors, terminals, brokers and counterparties to ensure timely cargo execution.
• Monitor vessel movements and proactively manage operational issues, delays and cargo discrepancies.
• Calculate and manage demurrage, laytime, freight and post-fixture claims where applicable.
• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations, Incoterms, company policies and international trade regulations.
• Maintain accurate operational records and provide timely updates to internal stakeholders.
• Work closely with Trading, Finance, Risk, Legal and Operations teams to facilitate smooth execution of trades.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Maritime Studies, Logistics, Supply Chain, Business or a related discipline.
• At least 3 years of experience in Physical Operations, Trade Operations, Shipping Operations or Commodity Operations within the petrochemical, oil & gas or energy trading industry.
• Good understanding of international shipping processes, vessel operations and trade documentation.
• Experience handling Bills of Lading, Letters of Credit (LC), Charter Parties and Incoterms.
• Familiarity with laytime, demurrage and freight calculations will be advantageous.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple shipments and competing priorities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications; experience with commodity trading or ERP systems will be an advantage.

Preferred Experience

• Exposure to physical petrochemical, refined products, crude oil, LPG or LNG trading operations.
• Experience working with international trading houses, oil majors or commodity trading companies.
• Knowledge of vessel chartering, post-fixture operations and cargo claims management.

Employment Type

• 6-month renewable contract
• Office-based role in Singapore