Jobs & Economy in Valdez
Valdez's economy runs on a real, genuine singular anchor -- the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System's only ice-free terminal -- alongside a secondary fishing and tourism sector.
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Learn moreThe real TAPS terminal anchor
The Valdez Marine Terminal is the ONLY ice-free port in Alaska connected to the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, storing more than 7 million barrels of North Slope crude for shipment to West Coast refineries.
Real, genuinely high pipeline-sector wages
Oil-and-gas-distribution employment in Valdez was cited at 455 jobs averaging $120,000/year, with Alyeska Pipeline positions specifically averaging approximately $156,583/year.
A secondary fishing and tourism sector
Beyond the pipeline terminal, Valdez's economy includes commercial and sport fishing and genuine tourism, particularly during the June-August peak season.
Key takeaways
- The Valdez Marine Terminal is the only ice-free TAPS-connected port in Alaska.
- Alyeska Pipeline positions in Valdez averaged approximately $156,583/year.
- Fishing and tourism form a real, secondary piece of Valdez's economy.
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