Position Commodity Trader / Interpreter

Summary
A Japanese corn starch manufacturer is seeking an experienced Commodity Trader / Interpreter for its Champaign, IL office. This senior-level position is responsible for purchasing U.S. corn for export to Japan, managing trading operations, and providing high-level Japanese/English interpretation. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of professional experience, a background in finance or investment banking, and the potential to grow into a future leadership role within the company.

Essential Duties

Purchase the required amount of grain at the best possible price, considering quality, grain type, and logistics.
Utilize knowledge of foreign exchange and CBOT futures and options trading to inform purchasing strategies.
Develop and execute trading strategies, including taking positions.
Interpret Japanese/English during high-level meetings between American companies and Japanese personnel.
Gather, analyze, and translate information on U.S. corn market trends from English sources into Japanese.
Manage and mentor a team of 3 to 4 junior professionals.
Coordinate, arrange, and oversee all storage and transportation of purchased corn from origin to delivery in Japan.
Engage in international outside sales for new products produced by the parent company.

Working Hours, Working Style
Full-time position
Standard working hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday–Friday
Willingness to work outside of standard hours, including one hour in the morning (Japan time) for handover, is required.

Working Location
Champaign, IL (Relocation required )

Salary
Annual $70,000 or more (depending on experience )

Benefit
401(k) savings plan available to eligible employees.
Group health insurance coverage offered to full-time employees.

Holidays
Paid holidays per company calendar
Federal holidays observed
PTO and Sick Leave available after probation

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance.
More than 10 years of work experience.
Native level Japanese/English skills (holding N1 or being a native Japanese speaker).
Authorization to work in the United States.
Experience working at a financial institution or investment bank.
Knowledge of foreign exchange and CBOT futures and options trading.
Proven experience in sales and training (not operations).
Experience in taking trading positions.
Demonstrated ability to manage junior professionals.
Experience in grain trading with a concentration in corn is a significant plus.