Oil Tanker Operator

Trafigura•Houston, TX

About The Position

As an Oil Tanker Operator at Trafigura, you will join a team managing one of the world’s largest Time Charter fleets. You will handle all aspects of Time Charter vessel operations, ensuring vessels are operated properly and perform effectively while following global standards and international regulations. The role sits within the Shipping Operations department, part of the broader Energy and Operations division, which executes physical trades and relies on strategic investments in storage and logistics capabilities around the world. You will interact with internal departments such as Chartering and Cargo Operations, and external partners including brokers, ship owners, and service companies. The position calls for operational diligence, analytical and data-driven thinking, effective communication and collaboration, and adaptability in a fast-paced, multinational trading environment. The employer states that it is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in recruitment or other employment practices on legally protected grounds.

Requirements

At least 4 years of experience managing vessel operations.
Strong understanding of charter party terms and conditions, including Time Charter and Voyage Charter.
Strong understanding of BIMCO standard forms and clauses.
Knowledge of laytime and demurrage calculations.
P&L understanding and variance analysis skills.
Demonstrated experience with cargo operations, including preparation for loading and discharge.
Proven experience with bunker operations, including planning, quality specifications, and sampling procedures.
Knowledge of shipping regulatory frameworks.
Solid understanding of shipping management software such as IMOS or Danaos.
English proficiency, written and verbal.

Nice To Haves

Strong business knowledge and a commercial approach.
Ability to work in a multinational, fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively with internal and external partners.
Data analysis and visualization skills, including dashboards, critical metrics, and trend analysis.
Report writing and presentation skills.
Automation tool development experience (desirable).
Understanding of AI/ML applications in shipping operations (desirable).
Diligence and accuracy in voyage documentation, charter party terms, and regulatory compliance.
Efficiency and a process-driven approach to optimizing operational workflows.
Proactive problem-solving and ability to anticipate vessel operational issues.
Analytical attitude toward interpreting performance data and identifying optimization opportunities.
Innovative, improvement-focused approach to operational efficiency.
Data visualization proficiency to turn complex operational data into actionable insights.
Collaborative approach across internal departments and external partners.
Clear communication when delivering voyage orders, reports, and stakeholder updates.
Reliability as an operational liaison between internal departments and external counterparties.
Agility and resilience when priorities shift rapidly.
Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during operational challenges.
Commercial awareness and understanding of the P&L impact of operational decisions.

Responsibilities

Undertake voyage planning to meet international regulations and respond to vessel operational issues.
Optimize bunker procurement and consumption strategies.
Review and coordinate stowage planning and cargo handling operations, and resolve issues in real time.
Coordinate agency appointments and provide voyage orders to vessels.
Supervise vessel performance throughout voyages, including speed and consumption analysis.
Coordinate weather-routing services and performance-optimization initiatives.
Manage hold and tank cleaning optimization.
Handle vessel questionnaires, certificates, letters of indemnity (LOIs), and supporting documentation.
Maintain and update company software systems with required operational data.
Collaborate with internal and external counterparties on ongoing operations, including pre- and post-fixture activities.
Ensure compliance with global regulatory requirements and Trafigura’s global policies and procedures.
Prepare operational reports and performance analyses.