Main purpose
As an Oil Shipping Operator in Trafigura, you will have the opportunity to join a team that manages one of the world’s largest Time Charter fleets in the world, handling all aspects of Time Charter vessel operations for the company. Your main responsibility is to ensure proper operation of TC vessels and increase performance, following global standards and international regulations at all times.
Key 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, cargo handling operations, and real-time issue resolution
Coordinate agency appointments and provide voyage orders to vessels
Monitor vessel performance throughout all voyages, including speed and consumption analysis
Coordinate weather routing services and performance optimization initiatives
Manage hold / tank cleaning optimization
Handle vessel questionnaires, certificates, LOIs and all relevant supporting documentation
Maintain and update company software systems with required operational data
Collaborate with internal and external counterparties to ensure smooth management of ongoing operations, including pre- and post-fixture activities
Ensure compliance with Global Regulatory Requirements
Prepare operational reports and performance analysis
Ensure compliance with Trafigura's global policies and procedures at all times
Required Qualifications
Minimum 2 years of experience managing vessels' operations for Seafarers or minimum 4 years for Non Seafarers
Strong understanding of Charter party terms and conditions (Time Charter, Voyage Charter)
Strong understanding of BIMCO standard forms and clauses
Knowledge of laytime and demurrage calculations
P&L understanding and variance analysis
Demonstrated experience with cargo operations – Preparation for Loading, discharge
Demonstrated experience with bunker operations - Planning, quality specifications, sampling procedures
Knowledge of shipping regulatory frameworks
Working knowledge of shipping management software (IMOS, Danaos, etc.)
English proficiency (written and verbal)
Preferred Qualifications
Strong business knowledge and commercial approach
Ability to work in a multinational, challenging, fast-paced, high-pressure environment
Excellent communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with internal and external stakeholders
Data analysis and visualization - Dashboards, critical metrics, trend analysis
Report writing and presentation skills
Automation tool development (desirable)
Understanding of AI/ML applications in shipping operations (desirable)
Attributes for Success
Operational Excellence
Diligent – Maintains accuracy in voyage documentation, charter party terms, and regulatory compliance across multiple concurrent vessel operations
Efficient and process-driven – Optimizes workflows for bunker procurement, stowage planning, and performance monitoring to minimize operational delays
Proactive problem-solver – Anticipates vessel operational issues and implements preventive measures before they impact voyage schedules or costs
Analytical & Data-Driven
Analytical attitude – Interprets speed/consumption data, P&L variances, and performance metrics to identify optimization opportunities
Innovative and improvement-focused – Develops automation solutions and applies emerging technologies (AI/ML) to enhance operational efficiency
Data visualization proficiency – Creates dashboards and trend analysis reports that translate complex operational data into actionable insights
Communication & Collaboration
Collaborative great teammate – Works seamlessly across Chartering, Cargo Operations, and external partners (brokers, ship owners, service providers) to ensure coordinated vessel management
Communicative and articulate – Delivers clear voyage orders, operational reports, and stakeholder updates in high-pressure, time-sensitive situations
Reliable point of contact – Serves as the trusted operational liaison between internal departments and external counterparties throughout the vessel lifecycle
Adaptability & Resilience
Dynamic and agile – Thrives in a fast-paced, multinational trading environment where priorities shift rapidly based on market conditions and operational demands
Calm under pressure – Makes sound decisions during real-time operational challenges, including weather routing adjustments, cargo handling issues, and regulatory compliance matters
Commercially aware – Balances operational requirements with business objectives, understanding the P&L impact of operational decisions
Department Overview
The Shipping Operations department is part of the broader Energy and Operations division which conducts physical trades, a long-term business where strategic investments in storage and logistics capabilities around the world are central to our business model.
The role involves interaction with internal departments such as Chartering and Cargo Operations and external partners such as Brokers, Ship-owning and Service Companies.
Reporting Structure
Shipping Operations Manager
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and take pride in a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital or veteran status, medical condition or handicap, disability, or any other legally protected status.
Please make sure that you submit your CV in English.