The energy industry continues to power economic growth across Texas and the Gulf Coast region, supporting critical infrastructure, industrial operations, utilities, transportation, construction, and oil and gas production. As companies continue investing in energy systems, industrial development, and infrastructure expansion, demand for skilled workers across technical and operational occupations remains strong.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of electricians is projected to grow 9 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, reflecting continued demand for skilled workers across infrastructure, industrial, and energy-related projects.
Whether pursuing a skilled trade, industrial maintenance pathway, construction leadership role, or transportation career, the energy industry offers strong wages, career mobility, and multiple entry points through apprenticeships, certifications, and technical training programs.
Where the Jobs Are: Energy Industry Occupations
The energy sector relies on a wide network of skilled trades and industrial support occupations that help build, maintain, transport, and operate critical systems and facilities. According to Workforce Solutions’ Where the Jobs Are report, key occupations include:
Electricians — Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in industrial facilities, commercial buildings, power systems, and infrastructure projects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of electricians is projected to grow 9 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, with approximately 81,000 openings projected annually nationwide.
- Median Hourly Wage: $28.60 | Projected Openings: 2,200+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers — Fabricate and repair metal structures, pipelines, industrial equipment, and machinery used throughout the energy and manufacturing sectors.
- Median Hourly Wage: $24.94 | Projected Openings: 1,900+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Industrial Machinery Mechanics — Maintain and repair machinery used in manufacturing plants, refineries, power facilities, and industrial operations.
- Median Hourly Wage: $29.90 | Projected Openings: 1,500+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters — Install and maintain piping systems that transport liquids and gases in industrial plants, refineries, and commercial facilities.
- Median Hourly Wage: $28.98 | Projected Openings: 1,100+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers — Transport fuel, equipment, industrial materials, and supplies that support construction, logistics, and energy operations.
- Median Hourly Wage: $24.39 | Projected Openings: 7,200+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Construction Managers — Plan, coordinate, and oversee industrial, infrastructure, utility, and energy construction projects.
- Median Hourly Wage: $48.50 | Projected Openings: 1,700+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers — Lead construction and extraction crews while coordinating schedules, safety practices, and day-to-day operations.
- Median Hourly Wage: $34.43 | Projected Openings: 2,800+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators — Operate heavy equipment used in infrastructure, industrial, utility, and energy-related construction projects.
- Median Hourly Wage: $22.94 | Projected Openings: 1,100+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists — Promote workplace safety, identify hazards, and help ensure compliance with safety regulations across industrial sites, refineries, utilities, and energy facilities.
- Median Hourly Wage: $38.46 | Projected Openings: 800+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Roustabouts, Oil and Gas — Maintain oilfield equipment, assist drilling operations, and perform labor tasks at oil and gas production sites.
- Median Hourly Wage: $22.53 | Projected Openings: 500+ annually | Education: No formal educational credential
Building Careers in Energy
Energy industry careers offer opportunities for workers with varying levels of education and experience. Many high-demand occupations can be accessed through apprenticeships, technical certifications, workforce training programs, or community college pathways.
From skilled trades and industrial maintenance to construction management and energy operations, these careers support one of the region’s most essential industries while offering competitive wages and long-term career potential.
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