US Aluminum Jobs Shift to Downstream, Holding 98% of Roles
Downstream firms drive 98% of US aluminum employment. Arconic expands capacity in Iowa with a $57.5 million project.
Key points
- 98% of US aluminum jobs are in mid- and downstream processing.
- Arconic launched a $57.5 million expansion in Iowa in September 2025.
- The sector supports 871,464 jobs and $326.4 billion in output.
US aluminum employment has shifted to downstream processing. The Aluminum Association reports 98% of jobs are now in this sector. This change happened as primary production roles fell sharply.
The industry supports 871,464 jobs total. Direct employment stands at 165,354 positions. The sector generates $326.4 billion in economic output.
Downstream growth outpaces primary decline
Secondary aluminum jobs rose 21.9% from 2024 to 2026. Coatings jobs grew by 23.1% in the same period. Sheet and extrusions employment increased 22.2%.
Primary aluminum employment has declined since 2013. The industry invested over $11 billion domestically last decade. These funds targeted mid- and downstream operations.
Downstream firms account for over 75% of industry earnings. The Congressional Research Service cites $31.5 billion in earnings for 2020. This segment acts as the main employment engine.
Arconic expands high-purity aluminum capacity
Arconic commissioned a new expansion in Iowa. The $57.5 million project started in September 2025. It focuses on high-purity aluminum production.
The firm received a $45.5 million award in 2023. This came from the Defense Production Act. Arconic operates in 19 countries worldwide.
Williammon targets extrusion temperature control
Williamson Corporation makes infrared temperature sensors. These tools serve the aluminum extrusion sector. The company is based in Massachusetts.
Their algorithms adjust for alloy emissivity. This ensures accurate non-contact measurements. The sensors monitor critical points in metal processing.
