Grain Trader / Merchandiser

The Grain Trader and Merchandiser will engage in buying, selling, and sourcing major grains while developing market channels, managing exporter and buyer relationships, and overseeing domestic procurement and barge trading activities. They will also execute international trade contracts, handle logistics across river and port systems, and manage risks related to freight, FX, and commodity markets to ensure efficient global grain movement.

Client Details

My client is the US subsidiary for a global trade, strategy, and distribution hub.

Description

1. Grain Trading & Market Development
2. * Engage in trading activities across major grains (corn, soybeans, wheat, etc.) with a focus on U.S. and international markets.
3. * Identify new business opportunities and develop international market channels.
4. * Manage relationships with exporters and global buyers.
5. Procurement & Origination
6. * Oversee domestic grain procurement, barge trading, and origination activities in the U.S. market.
7. * Coordinate with farmers, cooperatives, suppliers, and logistics partners to ensure reliable and cost-effective sourcing.
8. Export/Import Execution & Logistics
9. * Manage execution of grain trade contracts, including barge/vessel scheduling and documentation.
10. * Oversee end-to-end export/import operations, including shipping, warehousing, customs, and regulatory compliance.
11. * Ensure timely and efficient cargo movement through U.S. River systems, ports, and international destinations.
12. Risk Management & Contract Handling
13. * Handle international trade contracts and ensure compliance with company policies and risk management protocols.
14. * Assess market, credit, and operational risks; recommend mitigation strategies.
15. * Monitor freight, FX, and commodity market risks associated with grain trading.
16. Cross-Cultural Communication & Collaboration
17. * Work effectively in a multicultural corporate environment, collaborating closely with U.S. and global teams.
18. * Adapt communication and reporting styles to align with headquarters
19. * Build strong internal and external networks across global grain markets.

Profile

Qualifications

* Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in grain trading, origination, execution, or supply chain management.

* Proven track record in handling international trade contracts and risk management.

* Strong communication skills in English, with ability to operate in multicultural corporate settings.

* Based in, or willing to relocate to, the Chicago suburbs for long-term employment.

* Familiarity with U.S. grain markets, barge logistics, and export channels.

* Open to flexible working hours as needed for collaboration with international teams

* Strong sense of responsibility, accountability, and professional integrity.

* Excellent time management, punctuality, and disciplined work ethic.

Preferred Experience

* Practical exposure to barge trading, vessel logistics, and grain export documentation.

* Experience working with multinational trading houses, exporters, or global agribusiness firms.

* Established networks within the U.S. grain trading community.

Job Offer

Competitive salary ranging from $130,000 to $140,000

Bonus elligibility

Health benefits paid for by the employer

17 days PTO

401k matching

2 WFH days per month

Cell phone stipend

Gym reimbursement

Lunch plan

Relo assistance if applicable

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.