The average electrical engineering salary in Texas is $101,000 per year. Entry-level positions start at around $75,000, while senior engineers can earn up to $135,000 annually. Salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, with Houston and Dallas offering some of the highest pay in the state.
Electrical Engineering in Texas: Overview
Texas employs over 25,000 electrical engineers, making it one of the top states for this profession. The state’s diverse industries—like energy, aerospace, and semiconductor manufacturing—create steady demand for engineers.
Electrical engineers in Texas work in:
- Oil and gas extraction
- Renewable energy development
- Semiconductor fabrication
- Aerospace systems
- Telecommunications
Texas offers strong job security, particularly in Houston, Dallas, and Austin, where engineering roles are growing faster than the national average.
Average Electrical Engineering Salary in Texas
The average yearly salary for a Texas electrical engineer is $101,000. This figure includes all experience levels and industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and local data sources, salary ranges vary based on role and city.
Electrical Engineering Salary Table in Texas
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage (USD) | Annual Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | 31.72 | 65,970 |
| Junior | 37.88 | 78,800 |
| Experienced | 47.31 | 98,400 |
| Senior | 59.98 | 124,760 |
| Highest-Earning | 74.78 | 155,540 |
Key Takeaway: Senior engineers earn nearly 2.4x more than entry-level roles.
What Affects Electrical Engineer Salaries in Texas?
Electrical engineer salaries depend on:
- Experience Level – Pay increases with time and role. Engineers with 10+ years can earn over $135,000 annually.
- Education – Engineers with a master’s degree or a PE license earn $10,000–$15,000 more.
- Industry – Sectors like oil and gas and aerospace offer premium compensation.
- City – Location strongly impacts salary due to demand and cost of living.
- Skills – Knowledge of power systems, embedded systems, or renewable energy technologies increases earning potential.
Example: A licensed senior electrical engineer in Houston’s oil and gas industry may earn over $140,000 per year, well above the state average.
Highest Paying Cities in Texas for Electrical Engineers
Houston and Dallas offer the highest salaries for electrical engineers, followed closely by Austin and Plano.
Top Paying Cities in Texas (2025)
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Houston | $110,500 |
| Dallas | $107,300 |
| Austin | $104,800 |
| Plano | $102,600 |
| San Antonio | $97,200 |
Note: These cities also provide more opportunities for specialization in energy, software, and manufacturing.
Salary by Industry and Sector
Salaries differ widely across industries in Texas. Oil and gas, aerospace, and semiconductors offer the most competitive compensation for electrical engineers.
High-Paying Industries for Electrical Engineers in TX
- Oil & Gas Extraction – Up to $122,830/year
- Aerospace Manufacturing – Around $115,000/year
- Utilities (Power Generation) – About $108,000/year
- Semiconductor Manufacturing – Averages $103,000/year
- Telecommunications – Typically $99,000/year
Private sector roles generally pay more than government positions, though benefits may vary.
Career Progression and Salary Growth Over Time
The average annual salary for entry level electrical engineers in Texas starts around $65,000. With skill development and certifications, professionals move up the ladder quickly.
Common Career Path & Salary Growth
| Position | Experience Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Engineer | 0–2 years | $65,000–$75,000 |
| Project Engineer | 3–5 years | $85,000–$95,000 |
| Senior Engineer | 6–10 years | $110,000–$125,000 |
| Engineering Manager | 10+ years | $130,000–$150,000 |
Example: Engineers moving into management or project leadership roles often double their starting salary by year 8–10.
Outlook and Future Trends
Texas remains one of the top 5 states for electrical engineers by employment and pay. The state is investing heavily in renewable energy, chip manufacturing, and AI-based systems, creating more high-paying roles.
Key Future Salary Drivers:
- Clean energy projects in wind and solar
- AI-integrated systems and automation
- Electric vehicle infrastructure
- Defense and aerospace R&D
- Smart grid and power distribution tech
Engineers with skills in automation, embedded systems, or energy storage will see increased demand and salary growth.
Popular Questions About Electrical Engineering Salaries in Texas
How does the cost of living in Texas affect electrical engineering salaries?
Texas salaries provide higher purchasing power because the state has a lower cost of living compared to states like California and New York. An average salary of $100,870 in Texas goes further than the same amount elsewhere.
Are there specific industries in Texas where electrical engineers earn more?
Yes. Electrical engineers in oil and gas and aerospace sectors often earn more. Oil and gas professionals can make over $122,830 per year, driven by demand for safety and power control expertise.
Does obtaining advanced certifications or degrees impact salary growth?
Yes, significantly. Engineers with a master’s degree or a Professional Engineer (PE) license earn $10,000–$15,000 more per year. These credentials demonstrate expertise and help access senior-level roles.
What is the salary trajectory for an electrical engineer in Texas over time?
Entry level salaries range from $65,000 to $75,000. With 8–10 years of experience, salaries can double if engineers move into specialized or leadership roles. Fields like renewable energy, power systems, and semiconductors offer strong growth paths.
Key Takeaways
- Electrical engineers in Texas earn an average of $101,000/year.
- Houston, Dallas, and Austin are the highest-paying cities.
- Industry and experience level are the biggest factors impacting salary.
- Oil and gas, aerospace, and semiconductor sectors offer top pay.
- Entry-level engineers can expect $65,000–$75,000/year, with potential to earn over $135,000 later in their career.
- Certifications and advanced degrees increase salaries by $10,000–$15,000 annually.
