The best-paying jobs in the aluminum industry include head of research and development, director of operations, and head of sustainability. Due to their specialized knowledge, training, and experience requirements, they are qualified for high wages. They also hold a significant amount of industrial relevance.
According to the Aluminum Association, the sector itself employs about 159,000 people in the US. It also maintains 672,000 jobs in the upstream and downstream industries. At a 6.5% annual growth rate from 2021 to 2028, this industry will grow over the following 10 years.
What Do Aluminum Jobs Pay?
The average annual salary in the aluminum industry is $50,000. However, there are many positions with varying pay available in the sector. For instance, an experienced project manager working for a large company can earn up to $200,000 annually. On the other hand, an entry-level welding technician earns approximately $60,000 per year.
15 Highest Paying Aluminum Jobs with Good Salaries
Aluminum is a large industry with many job opportunities and competitive salaries. Many individuals want to pursue an occupation in this field. The good news is that different high-paying job options are available for people with the relevant skills and qualifications.
The head of R&D in the aluminum industry leads the company’s product innovation strategy across all markets. They also develop revolutionary next-generation products and technologies and contribute to reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions through recycling and other means.
Heads of research and development earn high salaries because they are responsible for leading the company’s product innovation strategy. To get this role, you need leadership, strategic thinking, problem-solving, communication, and technical expertise. You also need experience in R&D, operations, and technology.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as engineering, science, or technology for this role. However, many heads of R&D positions hold a Master’s degree or a Ph.D. Some companies prefer individuals with 10–15 years of work experience for senior-level positions.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 5% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. This growth will result in the creation of several new job openings over the next 10 years.
2. Director of Operations
Average Annual Salary: $400,000
A director of operations ensures that the company runs smoothly and achieves its goals. They oversee operational activities, set strategic goals, and liaise with superiors to make decisions. Additionally, they ensure that companies comply with industry regulations, manage budgets, and implement systems to improve efficiency and productivity.
Directors of operations earn high salaries due to their extensive experience and responsibilities. They possess strong leadership skills, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of the aluminum industry, and market trends.
Many companies require a bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering, or a related field. Some employers ask for a master’s degree in any connected field.
The job outlook for directors of operations in the aluminum industry is positive, with a growth rate of 6% from 2020 to 2030. There are currently over 100,000 employment opportunities available in the United States for this role.
3. Head of Sustainability
Average Annual Salary: $400,000
A head of sustainability formulates and communicates the sustainability strategy of the aluminum industry, develops action plans, and coordinates efforts across various departments. They also promote recycling and work to reduce the environmental impact of aluminum production.
Heads of sustainability earn high salaries due to the increasing importance of sustainability in business and the need for experts in this position.
The core skills for this role are knowledge of sustainability principles and practices, strong communication skills, and leadership skills. Also, they must have the ability to manage efforts across various departments.
Employers require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, sustainability, or business.
The job outlook for sustainability professionals is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. This role will produce many jobs in the future due to the high demand for sustainable products.
4. Head of Technology
Average Annual Salary: $400,000
A head of technology leads a team of aluminum technologists, engineers, technicians, and inventors to develop innovative solutions. They also lead research, development, and technology projects for novel products.
Heads of technology in the aluminum industry earn high salaries due to their responsibilities in leading research and technology projects.
To get this role, you must possess fundamental knowledge and hands-on experience in material development and processing. Additionally, you need strong interpersonal and communication abilities and analytical skills for data management, analysis, and presentation of results.
The minimum educational requirement for this role is a bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering, ceramics, or chemical engineering. Many employers prefer people with 8 years of work experience in materials synthesis, production, and related areas.
The job outlook for this role is positive. It will produce many employment opportunities in the future.
5. Senior Director, Global Sales
Average Annual Salary: $300,000
A senior director, of global sales, manages sales operations globally for an aluminum company. They develop and execute sales strategies, manage sales teams, build relationships with customers, and achieve revenue targets. Also, they oversee marketing programs, forecasting, and collateral material development.
Senior directors’ global sales salaries are high due to the extensive knowledge and experience required for the role. This position requires management, sales, marketing, and knowledge of commercials. You also need excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
The educational requirement for a senior director of global sales in the aluminum industry is a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field. However, some companies prefer a master’s degree in business administration.
The job outlook for this role is positive, with a 5% growth rate from 2018 to 2028. This position will produce few jobs in the future due to the high level of experience and knowledge required.
6. Senior Manager, Safety, and Health
Average Annual Salary: $300,000
A senior manager for safety and health develops and executes health and safety plans in the workplace according to legal guidelines. They also lead safety and occupational health programs in the mining and manufacturing industries. Also, they ensure compliance with safety regulations, manage OSHA compliance, and provide safety guides.
They earn a high salary due to their role in ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for employees, contractors, and visitors.
Senior managers in safety and health must have experience leading safety and occupational health programs and knowledge of regulatory compliance and safety policies.
The basic educational requirement for this role is a bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety, environmental science, or a related field. The job outlook for safety and health managers is positive, with a growth rate of 6% from 2019 to 2029.
A supply chain manager coordinates, organizes, and oversees identification, acquisition, production, and distribution. They supervise all logistics processes in a business’s production plant and warehouses. Additionally, they keep track of logistics, update the company’s inventory, analyze operational performance, and resolve issues.
Supply chain managers earn high salaries because they ensure the efficient flow of materials and products from suppliers to customers, which makes a business successful.
To get this role, you must know supply chain processes and have good knowledge of relevant software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. You should also know how to analyze precious metal materials and inventory transactions.
Many employers require a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field for this role. The job outlook for supply chain managers is positive, with a growth rate of 6% from 2019 to 2029.
8. Senior Finance Manager
Average Annual Salary: $300,000
A senior finance manager manages the daily financial activities and functions of an aluminum company. They also ensure all financial operations comply with governmental rules and regulations.
Senior finance managers earn a high salary because of their extensive experience and expertise in financial management. The core skills for this role are financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, risk management, and communication skills.
To become a senior finance manager, a bachelor’s degree in a related field is necessary. Some employers prefer a master’s degree in finance, accounting, or business administration. However, individuals with 5-8 years of experience in accounting or financial analysis have a higher chance of getting a job offer.
The job outlook for financial managers is positive, with a growth rate of 17% from 2021 to 2031. This role will produce about 71,300 openings every year for the next 10 years.
9. Human Resource Director (HR)
Average Annual Salary: $300,000
A human resources manager manages the staff of an aluminum manufacturing company, addresses staffing concerns, and manages benefits plans. They also develop corporate plans for diverse HR matters like health and safety, recruiting, interviewing, and hiring new staff. Additionally, they work closely with management to support company goals.
Human resource directors earn a high salary because of their duty to manage the workforce and ensure compliance with labor laws.
To be a human resources director, you need interpersonal, leadership, and organizational skills. You should also understand human resources experience, compliance, employee relations, problem-solving, strategic planning, communication, and conflict resolution.
Many companies require a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field for this role. However, people with both education and several years of related work experience can easily land this job.
The job outlook for this role is 7% from 2021 to 2031. This role will produce 16,300 openings every year, on average, over the next 10 years.
A director of engineering oversees the engineering department and ensures that projects are completed on time and within budget. They also develop and implement engineering strategies, policies, and procedures to improve efficiency and productivity. Additionally, they manage and mentor engineering staff, collaborate with other departments, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Directors of engineering earn a high salary due to their extensive experience and expertise in the field. Relevant skills for this role are leadership, project management, technical knowledge, analytical skills, detail orientation, and interpersonal abilities.
To become a director of engineering, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Additionally, extensive experience and expertise in the field are necessary to be successful in this role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of directors of engineering will grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030.
11. Bauxite Mining Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $250,000
A bauxite mining engineer oversees the extraction of bauxite, which is the primary source of aluminum. They also manage mining operations, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and oversee the transportation of bauxite to processing facilities. Additionally, they analyze data related to mining operations and make recommendations for improvements.
Bauxite mining engineers earn high salaries because they mine the bauxite used in the production of aluminum products. To get this role, you must know mining processes, safety regulations, environmental regulations, data analysis, and project management.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in mining engineering, geology, or a related field for this role.
The job outlook for bauxite mining engineers is good, with a growth rate of 4% from 2020 to 2030. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this position will produce 500 openings every year for the next 10 years.
12. Director, Strategy and Business Development
Average Annual Salary: $225,245
A director of strategy and business development leads the global teams and develops and implements a comprehensive internal and external sales plan to implement the overall growth strategy. They also manage existing partnerships, evaluate company business goals, lead cross-functional teams, and direct marketing efforts.
Directors of strategy and business development earn a high salary because of their role in driving business growth and profitability. Relevant skills for this role include leadership, strategic thinking, business acumen, communication, and networking.
A director of strategy and business development should have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field. However, some companies prefer individuals with a master’s degree or an MBA.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this role will grow by 4% from 2020 to 2030. It will produce many employment opportunities in the next 10 years.
13. Senior Project Manager
Average Annual Salary: $200,000
A senior project manager oversees and manages the production, processing, and distribution of aluminum products. They also manage project teams, develop project plans, monitor project progress, and ensure project completion within budget and timeline. Also, they provide technical support to production and maintenance management, analyze and diagnose equipment breakdowns, and develop long-term solutions.
Senior project managers earn a high salary because they manage complex projects with a high level of expertise and experience. To get this role, you must possess project management, program management, and portfolio management abilities.
69% of senior project managers hold a bachelor’s degree, and 19% hold a master’s degree. relevant experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for this role will grow by 7% from 2021 to 2031. This position will produce 70,400 openings per year, on average, over the next 10 years.
14. Senior Process Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $200,000
A senior process engineer collects production data and applies standard scientific, and statistical methods to analyze, document, and diagram production processes. To meet the output, quality, and cost objectives of the business, they create and optimize manufacturing and continuous production processes.
Senior process engineers earn high salaries due to their expertise in managing complex processes and ensuring quality control. To get this role, you need skills in process optimization, process design, process control, and chemical engineering.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field for this role. The job outlook for process engineers is positive, with a growth rate of 4% from 2020 to 2030. There are currently 3,000 jobs available in the United States for this position. It will also produce many jobs in the future.
An environmental manager implements environmental policies to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements. They also spearhead problem-solving efforts to increase environmental awareness throughout the plant and drive continuous improvements in all areas.
Environmental managers earn a high salary because they ensure compliance with environmental regulations and minimize the environmental impact of industrial operations.
To get this role, you need knowledge of environmental regulations, environmental science, compliance management, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field for this role. However, some prefer individuals with a master’s degree or relevant work experience.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for this role will grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030. This position will produce many employment opportunities in the next 10 years.
5 Highest Paying Entry-Level Aluminum Jobs with Good Salaries
A metallurgist is an engineer who specializes in the production and properties of aluminum and its alloys. They develop and improve manufacturing processes, ensure product quality, and research new materials.
Metallurgists earn a high salary because of their expert skills and knowledge. To get this role, you must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills. They also need a good understanding of mathematics, chemistry, and physics.
The educational requirement for this role is a bachelor’s degree in materials science or a related field. However, some employers require a master’s or doctoral degree. The job outlook for metallurgists is positive, with a high employment rate in the coming years.
2. Extrusion Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $83,000
An extrusion engineer designs tools and equipment for production lines based on extruded aluminum profiles. They support and train staff, support global projects, and implement processes for technologies within their field of expertise.
Extrusion engineers earn a high salary due to their specialized skills and knowledge and the demand for their expertise in the aluminum industry.
Employers require a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, or a related field for this role. However, some employers prefer a master’s degree or relevant work experience in the aluminum industry.
The job outlook for extrusion engineers is positive, with a growing demand for experts in this role. There are currently hundreds of job openings for this position in the United States alone.
3. Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $75,000
A sales representative sells standard products and services and contacts and visits new customers to determine and develop profitable sales opportunities. They also schedule and perform cold calls and calls to existing customers.
They earn a high salary because of the complexity of the job, which involves knowledge of international variances in cultural and legal issues relating to sales.
Sales representatives possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to work under pressure.
A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field is necessary for this role. Many employers prefer candidates with a 2 years of experience working in sales or any related field. The job outlook for aluminum sales representatives is positive, with a growth rate of 2% from 2020 to 2030.
4. Tool and Die Maker
Average Annual Salary:$65,000
A tool and die maker in the aluminum industry analyzes specifications, lays out metal stock, and sets up and operates machine tools. They also fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, fixtures, jigs, gauges, cutting tools, and machinists’ hand tools.
The highest salary for tool and die makers is earned by those with advanced skills and experience.
The core skills needed for this role include proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, knowledge of machine tools and their operation, precision measurement skills, and the ability to work with a variety of materials.
Tool and die makers need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many companies prefer candidates with at least 2 years of working experience.
The job outlook for tool and die makers will decline slightly in the coming years due to automation and outsourcing. However, there will still be a need for expert tool and die makers to maintain and repair existing equipment and create new tools.
A welding technician welds or assembles work materials and makes critical decisions regarding the type of welding techniques, equipment, and processes to be used. They also oversee junior welding technicians.
Welding technicians earn very well because of their expertise in welding aluminum products. To get this role, you need welding skills, knowledge of welding equipment, critical thinking, decision-making skills, and communication abilities.
Many employers require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent for this role. Others prefer candidates with technical and on-the-job training.
The job outlook for welding technicians is positive, with a growth rate of 2% from 2021 to 2031. This role will also produce a few employment opportunities in the future.
How to Apply and Get a High Paying Job in Aluminum?
Looking for a high-paying job in the aluminum sector can be a roller coaster.You need to follow steps that will increase your chances of landing jobs with the best salaries.
5 practical steps to applying and getting a high-paying job in aluminum:
1. Research the industry
Before you apply for a job in the aluminum industry, do your research. Learn about the available jobs, the qualifications they require, and the companies that are hiring. You can use online job boards, industry publications, and company websites to gather information.
2. Acquire the necessary skills and knowledge
You need to acquire skills and knowledge that are relevant to the aluminum industry before seeing employment opportunities. You can gain these skills through vocational or technical programs, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
3. Update your resume and cover letter
When you identify the jobs you’re interested in, update your resume and cover letter. Make sure your resume highlights your relevant experience and skills, and tailor your cover letter to each job you apply for.
4. Network
Networking is essential when it comes to finding high-paying jobs. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other people who work in the sector on social media. It will help you learn about job openings and get referrals.
5. Apply for jobs and prepare for interviews
Once you know the job opportunities that match your skills, submit your resume and portfolio and prepare for interviews. Also, remember to research the company and the role before the interview. It will help you prepare answers to common interview questions.
Finding employment opportunities in this field might be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. You can make things simpler for yourself by learning where to look for jobs and how to connect with employers.
5 top job boards to find the best paying jobs in the aluminum industry:
1. Aluminum Association Job Board
The aluminum association is a trade association that lists job openings at member companies. You can use this to find jobs by location, job title, and company.
2. Aluminum Insider Jobs
This is a website that provides news and information on the worldwide aluminum industry. They also have a job listing column with openings in production, engineering, and management.
3. CareerCast Niche Networks
CareerCast is a job listing service that provides specialist networks for the aluminum business and other industries. It can help you locate employment in the industry’s sales, engineering, and other sectors.
4. Metal Jobs Network
Metal jobs network specializes in jobs in the metalworking industry. If you are seeking employment opportunities, you can use this platform to submit resumes for companies to view.
5. International Aluminum Institute (IAI) Job Board
The international aluminum institute is a global organization that provides employment opportunities in production, engineering, and management. Job seekers can use this website for their search.
What are the Skills Required to Get a High Paying Job in Aluminum?
To get the best-paying roles in the aluminum industry, you must have relevant skills to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations. Your success in this industry depends on you possessing a unique set of technical, practical, and interpersonal abilities.
5 top-level skills needed to get the best-paying jobs in aluminum:
1. Quality control
Quality control specialists are highly relevant in the aluminum industry. The aluminum sector places a high priority on ensuring that products fulfill exacting quality standards. Additionally, employees need to be able to recognize and resolve quality problems that arise.
2. Analytical skills
In many positions in the aluminum business, analytical abilities are necessary. It is essential for spotting trends, monitoring performance, and making wise decisions that employees be able to analyze data and other information. It affects how well businesses perform.
3. Technical knowledge
Workers in the aluminum sector must have a solid understanding of the technical aspects of aluminum production. Knowledge of equipment, processes, and quality control is essential for many roles in the industry.
4. Problem-solving
There may be difficulties and hurdles in the aluminum sector, which can be complex. This is why individuals who can think critically and creatively are important.
5. Teamwork
Working effectively as part of a team, communicating clearly, and sharing information and knowledge are necessary for success in this field. Workers must be able to collaborate across departments and roles to achieve common goals and objectives.
Top 10 Companies with the Highest-Paying Jobs in Aluminum
For individuals looking to start working in the aluminum sector, finding a company that offers high-paying jobs is a huge deal.
Here is a list of the top 10 companies that pay the best salaries in aluminum:
Aluminium Bahrain (Alba)
Rusal
Norsk Hydro
Emirates Global Aluminium
BHP Billiton Aluminium
China Hongqiao Group
Novelis
Century Aluminum
Rio Tinto
Alcoa Corporation
Table showing top 10 companies with their highest paying roles and salaries in the aluminum sector:
Name of company
Size (No of employees)
Highest-paying title
Salary
Aluminium Bahrain (Alba)
3,135
Director of Operations
$400,000
Rusal
57,933
Head of Research and Development
$400,000
Norsk Hydro
31,000
Head of Sustainability
$400,000
Emirates Global Aluminium
7,000
Head of Technology
$400,000
BHP Billiton Aluminium
39,210
Director of Engineering
$300,000
China Hongqiao Group
42,650
Human Resources Director
$300,000
Novelis
14,650
Senior Director, Global Sales
$300,000
Century Aluminum
1,300
Environmental Manger
$200,000
Rio Tinto
47,500
Bauxite Mining Engineer
$250,000
Alcoa Corporation
12,200
Senior Project Manager
$200,000
Which Aluminum company pays the highest salary?
Aluminium Bahrain, Rusal, Norsk Hydro, and Emirates Global Aluminium pay the highest salaries in the aluminum sector.
What are the Factors Determining an Employee’s Salary in the Aluminum Industry?
Employees’ salaries in the aluminum industry are influenced by different factors. Knowing these factors will help job seekers negotiate better salaries and make good decisions.
5 major factors determining an employee’s salaries in the aluminum sector:
1. Education and Training
As the aluminum sector witnesses more advancement and technology, employers look out for individuals with professional training. They also hire individuals with higher educational requirements. People with the highest qualifications will be paid more than others.
2. Work Experience
Individuals with more experience in the aluminum sector get higher salaries than others who recently got into the industry. Employers always offer higher salaries to employees with experience who are valuable because they improve their businesses.
3. Job Title and Responsibilities
The higher the job title, the more the employee earns. For instance, a director of sales earns more money than a metallurgist. In addition to job titles, duties like executive or major operations command better salaries.
4. Geographic Location
Workers’ earnings can be influenced by location. People working in developed nations earn more because of differences in labor regulations, living standards, and industry demand. Employees working and living in developing nations or underdeveloped countries earn lower salaries.
5. Industry Demand
Industry demand influences an employee’s salary in the industry. When the demand for aluminum products is globally high, it creates new jobs. An increase in demand will also raise worker salaries. However, a decline in demand reduces salaries and employment opportunities.
Conclusion: Best Paying Jobs in Aluminum
The aluminum industry offers a wide range of high-paying job opportunities for individuals from different backgrounds. To land the best-paying role in the industry, you must develop a range of abilities that are highly relevant. With the right combination of skills and experience, individuals can build a successful and rewarding work life in this sector.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Paying Jobs in Aluminum
What is the highest paying job in aluminum?
Head of Research and Development is the highest-paying job, with an average annual salary of $400,000.
