Nearly 98% of U.S. Aluminum Jobs in Downstream Processing
Aluminum | 2026-09-24 06:48:25
Meanwhile, US primary aluminum imports have declined substantially, falling 30.8% from 2.5 million tonnes in July 2022 to 1.73 million tonnes in July 2026.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The US aluminum industry is increasingly relying on downstream activities to support employment, investment, and domestic manufacturing, with nearly 98% of industry jobs now concentrated in mid- and downstream processing and recycling, according to the Aluminum Association.
The association’s 2026 economic impact study estimates that the sector directly employs 165,354 people, while its broader economic footprint supports 871,464 jobs and generates $326.4 billion in output.
RELATED NEWS:
Aluminum Association Urges Comprehensive U.S. Supply Strategy
New White Paper by The Aluminum Association Underscores Need for Increased Recycling
Employment growth has been strongest in value-added operations, with employment in primary aluminum falling significantly. Between 2024 and 2026, jobs in secondary aluminum production increased 21.9%, while coatings and sheet and extrusion employment climbed 23.1% and 22.2%, respectively. The domestic industry has seen an investment of more than $11 billion over the past decade.
Meanwhile, US primary aluminum imports have declined substantially, falling 30.8% from 2.5 million tonnes in July 2022 to 1.73 million tonnes in July 2026. The shift highlights the growing importance of domestic processing and recycling capacity.
As the US seeks greater supply-chain resilience, downstream companies are becoming increasingly important to employment, manufacturing capacity and the broader development of a more integrated domestic aluminum industry the study report said.
POLL
Which segment accounts for nearly 98% of U.S. aluminum industry jobs?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where are most U.S. aluminum industry jobs concentrated?
Nearly 98% of industry employment is concentrated in mid- and downstream activities, including processing, manufacturing and recycling. These segments have become increasingly important to the industry's overall employment base.
- Which aluminum sectors recorded the strongest employment growth?
Secondary aluminum production employment increased 21.9% between 2024 and 2026. Employment in coatings rose 23.1%, while sheet and extrusion employment increased 22.2% during the same period.
- How have U.S. primary aluminum imports changed?
Primary aluminum imports declined 30.8%, from 2.5 million tonnes in July 2022 to 1.73 million tonnes in July 2026. The reduction coincides with the growing importance of domestic processing and recycling capacity.
