What does a trading analyst do at Shell operations

What is a trading analyst?

A trading analyst is a data-driven professional who researches market trends and conditions, models scenarios, and turns complex data into clear recommendations that inform trading decisions. The role exists across energy, power, and broader commodity markets, where timely insight helps companies balance opportunity with disciplined risk management.

Education and typical background

• Bachelor's degree in economics, finance, engineering, mathematics, or related quantitative fields, with internship or entry-level experience in financial markets or market analysis preferred

Career path and progression

• Analysts develop by expanding product knowledge, analytics depth, and cross-team collaboration
• Paths can lead to senior analyst roles, risk or strategy positions, or commercial roles within Trading and Supply

What does a trading analyst do at Shell US

At Shell, energy trading analysts help teams make confident business decisions by monitoring market drivers, preparing actionable analysis, and coordinating across risk, operations, and scheduling teams to keep positions and physical movements aligned. The work combines elements across different asset classes that energy, commodity, and power market roles typically cover, depending on desk assignments and trading activity.

Key responsibilities at a glance:

• Monitor market trends, industry changes, and signals to identify opportunities and risks
• Build financial models and dashboards showing P&L impact, exposure levels, and hedge effectiveness
• Support strategy development by modeling scenarios and testing trading ideas in various market conditions
• Present concise financial recommendations to traders and senior stakeholders for decision-making
• Coordinate with traders, risk management teams, operations, credit, and scheduling teams to maintain data accuracy and operational alignment
• Create reports and tools that communicate complex market information and trade data clearly to stakeholders

Turning market data into insights

•  Monitor supply and demand fundamentals, price spreads, and basis relationships for Shell's core commodities including natural gas, LNG, crude oil, and refined products across gas & power markets
• Apply quantitative methods including fundamental analysis and technical analysis, combining fundamentals with price data to forecast market movements and evaluate trading performance using advanced analytical tools like Shell's World Energy Model
• Track economic indicators, geopolitical events, and global economic trends to prepare concise market notes that help trading teams align on near-term priorities and risk parameters

Working with traders to shape decisions

• Input deals accurately and validate financial data feeding risk management systems and daily P&L calculations using market tick data
• Translate analytical findings into practical recommendations that traders can implement effectively using analytical acumen
• Identify tactical adjustments when market conditions change, providing documented rationale for decision support while monitoring for pricing inefficiencies

Keeping Shell's operations aligned

• Coordinate information flow between Commercial, Operations, Risk, Credit, and Scheduling teams so trading instructions translate smoothly to physical execution in the current market environment
• Flag discrepancies quickly during volatile market periods when timing affects outcomes, applying risk frameworks and market risk assessment
• Support compliance and control processes by maintaining accurate records, following established procedures, and managing credit risk within regulatory capital requirements

Skills and traits for success

Shell invests in professional development, so analysts at different career stages receive coaching and resources to advance their capabilities. This reflects our commitment to helping you grow your skills while working on meaningful challenges in the energy sector. For additional career guidance and resources, visit our candidate resource center.

The ideal candidate profile:

Success as a trade analyst requires a unique blend of strong quantitative skills and a sharp commercial mindset. Shell looks for well-rounded individuals from a variety of academic backgrounds who are passionate about markets and problem-solving.

Analytical thinking and commercial awareness

• Strong quantitative skills with comfort in data modeling and statistical analysis across financial markets
• Ability to synthesize large datasets into actionable insights that support business decisions using trading strategies
• Deep understanding of financial instruments, commodity market structure, and economic drivers behind price movements
• Problem-solving capabilities in uncertain market environments with attention to both opportunity and risk factors

Technical proficiency and digital adaptability

• Working knowledge of trading strategies, risk management systems, and P&L reporting tools such as Endur, Allegro, Power BI, Python, or SQL
• Fast learning approach that adapts to new platforms, datasets, and analytical methods as markets change
• Practical understanding of P&L drivers and position reporting requirements

Clear communication and collaboration under pressure

• Communicate market research findings in straightforward language through reports and presentations
• Coordinate cross-functional collaboration to maintain commercial alignment across Shell's trading operations
• Make sound, timely business decisions in fast-paced environments while keeping stakeholders informed

Why choose Shell in the US

• Be the best version of yourself in a values-led culture: Our shared values are honesty, integrity, and respect. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value our inclusive approach and supportive culture. We trade in a compliant and ethical way.
• Work with and learn from the best: You'll collaborate with skilled professionals, learning to navigate markets and competition. You'll grow your skills and make connections with industry professionals across our global business.
• Make an impact in one of the world's leading energy trading businesses: Our teams occupy an influential position in the business. Your decisions will play a pivotal role in shaping Shell's profitability and market positioning.
• Develop the energy solutions of tomorrow and today: You can be a part of the future of energy. Play a role in developing solutions that support the energy transition and address today's energy needs. Working with a vast portfolio of energy products globally, you will power progress for the world around us.

How to apply

The Shell Graduate Program includes three years of development with Trading and Supply rotations across operations, analytics, risk, and compliance. The selection process includes virtual job tryouts, on-demand interviews, and final virtual assessments.

For experienced professionals, apply online. If you are shortlisted, you can expect interviews and assessments. Timelines will vary based on the number of applications and location.

Ready to apply for a trade analyst job?

Review open trading analyst jobs to see how your skills align with specific desk requirements, and prepare examples that demonstrate measurable impact from your experience. If you're motivated by market dynamics and collaborative teamwork, start your application and take the next step toward joining Shell's trading operations.

If you have questions about the application process, visit the careers FAQs page for guidance.

Bring your skills to a team that's powering progress for today and building energy solutions for tomorrow.

See available roles at Shell US