EMPOWER YOUR FUTURE.
90% RETENTION RATE
60% EMPLOYEES 5+ YEARS SERVICE
100% INVESTED IN YOU.
What is a Commodity Trader?
A career in trading is about building relationships with customers, distributors, and suppliers. Traders buy and sell products, negotiate pricing, build relationships, solve problems, and manage transactions from beginning to end. In the building products industry, traders work with products like lumber, plywood, OSB, and other wood products. The job combines sales, relationship management, negotiation, problem-solving, and business decision-making. Every day is different, and success depends on being able to think on your feet, communicate well, and follow through.
What does a trader do?
Understand the Business
Shadow our administrative departments (Inventory, Credit, Logistics) to learn the full life cycle of a trade.
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Learn from the Best
Partner closely with seasoned Traders and company leadership on projects, mentorship activities, and real-time deals.
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Build Operational Know-How
Assist in creating shipping reports, handling claims, and supporting traders during absences.
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Develop Market Expertise
Learn to interpret market offerings, manage inventory, and source opportunities.
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Start Selling
Engage in prospecting and sales calls with experienced traders guiding you.
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Create Your Business Plan
Design a roadmap to success as you transition into a commission-based trader role.
Trading with AIFP
At AIFP, we have been trading commodity building products since 1964.
15 YEARS avg tenure
43 YEARS longest tenure employee
$500 MIL total annual sales
$120K donated annually
1,700 CUSTOMERS
400 SUPPLIER PARTNERS
The Perks
Comprehensive Benefits - Full healthcare coverage, 401(k)
Uncapped Earning Potential - Transition to 100% commission after training
Employee Stock Program
Team-Bonding Events - From a bowling tournament to golf outings, we like to have fun, too
Location - Based in Portland, Oregon - a hub for the forest products industry and outdoor lifestyle
ENTRY-LEVEL ROOKIE SCHOOL
This year-long program offers hands-on experience across admin, trucking, and trading. Trainees spend 1 month in admin, 6 months in trucking, and 5 months on the trading floor as a trader assistant.
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Led by two trainers and supported by a training manual, the program combines self-study and guided sessions covering sales, customer development, transportation, team dynamics, and business planning.
SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
JULY - AUGUST 2027
Learn the ropes of the building products industry and contribute to a company dedicated to creating value for its customers, employees, and community.
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Shadow and assist our logistics and supply chain team to understand critical operations. ​
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Comprehensive exposure to the building product and wholesale trading industry. ​
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Hands-on experience in logistics, marketing, supply chain, and customer engagement​
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The chance to be part of a dynamic, collaborative team that values growth, accountability, and success.
At AIFP, we don’t just offer jobs—we offer careers in an environment built for growth, mentorship, and success.
If you're motivated, team-oriented, and ready to make an impact, you’ve found the right place.
