Operating Engineer Salary in Texas (2026)
Texas · 5.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | $60,248 | -3.0% | High |
| San Antonio | $55,900 | -10.0% | High |
| Dallas | $61,490 | -1.0% | High |
| Austin | $67,080 | +8.0% | High |
| Fort Worth | $59,627 | -4.0% | High |
| El Paso | $50,931 | -18.0% | High |
| Arlington | $60,248 | -3.0% | High |
| Corpus Christi | $54,037 | -13.0% | High |
| Plano | $63,353 | +2.0% | High |
| Laredo | $49,689 | -20.0% | High |
| Lubbock | $50,931 | -18.0% | High |
| Garland | $59,005 | -5.0% | High |
Texas is home to a strong job market for Operating Engineers. The state's key industries — Energy, Technology, Healthcare — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $62,111 per year, Texas's Operating Engineer salaries are 5.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Texas (index: 0.95) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Texas can expect to earn $38,884–$51,994, while experienced Operating Engineers can command $81,491–$93,064.
Looking ahead, the Operating Engineer profession in Texas is projected to grow at 3.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Energy continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Operating Engineer salary in Texas?The average Operating Engineer salary in Texas is $62,111 per year in 2026, which is 5.0% below the national average of $65,380.
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What city in Texas pays Operating Engineers the most?Major metro areas typically pay Operating Engineers the highest wages in Texas due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Texas a good state for Operating Engineers?Texas has a strong job market with major industries in Energy, Technology, Healthcare. This makes it one of the better states for Operating Engineer employment.
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How does Texas Operating Engineer salary compare to the US average?At $62,111/year, Texas Operating Engineer salaries are 5.0% lower than the national average of $65,380/year.