Texas Employment and Career Guide

With a workforce of 14 million, Texas has the second largest economy in the country. Texas’ size alone is a major contributor to this high number, as it contains three major metropolitan areas (Austin, Houston, and Dallas-Fort Worth) known for their high levels of commerce, trade, and booming agriculture industry.

According to the US Census Bureau, the median household income from 2016-2020 was $63,826. As of July 2022, Texas has an unemployment rate of 4%, slightly higher than the nation’s unemployment rate of 3.5%.

Career Opportunities in Texas

With the second largest economy in the country, Texas houses various industries that attract job seekers every year. While cities like Houston, Austin, and Dallas-Fort Worth house dozens of top employers in industries like tech, healthcare, and retail, it’s important to remember that Texas also contains thousands of acres of farmland that contribute to the thriving agriculture industry. After recently earning the title of the top-producing state of wind energy, Texas continues to prove new ways to innovate its most popular sectors to meet demand.

Wind Turbine Service Technicians

A wind turbine service technician, also known as a windtech, is responsible for maintaining the performance of wind turbines. This includes initial installation, periodic inspection, and resolving electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic malfunctions.

With 1,400 job openings in 2020, job opportunities are expected to increase significantly. There is no requirement for a specific license for Wind Turbine Service Technicians in Texas. Still, many local colleges offer a relevant certification in Industry Mechanics and Maintenance to help future technicians get started. Houston Woodlands and the Sugarlands, as well as areas of West Texas, have the highest concentration of jobs in this speciality.

With a median income of $51,000, a Wind Turbine Service Technician career often has a higher pay than other jobs with similar education requirements, making it an excellent option for those looking to pursue employment that is projected to increase in value.

Although some may pursue technical or community college and earn a certificate or associate’s degree, most training is on the job. If you have a background in hydraulic or electrical maintenance, mechanical and/or braking systems, this career might be a good match for you.

Statisticians

A statistician uses mathematical and statistical theory to collect and interpret data to provide helpful information for a variety of fields—from business and economics to agriculture and the environment. Many people find this career appealing for its practicality and usefulness in nearly any field, its reliance on new mathematical techniques, and a deep understanding of the English language.

Most statisticians have a Master’s degree, and many colleges in Texas offer degrees in Data Analytics, Applied Mathematics, or Educational Assessment, Testing, and Management to help prepare future statisticians for their careers.

Demand for statisticians in Texas is expected to increase by 45% by 2028, which is 10 percent higher than the projected increase in demand for the rest of the country. The current median salary for a statistician is $80,000. One of the perks of this occupation is its use across many industries including consulting, government, manufacturing, technology, pharmaceutical, and more.

Taxi Drivers and Chauffeurs

A taxi driver operates a motor vehicle to transport passengers to their destination. Known for its flexible schedule, a career as a taxi driver is a great opportunity for those seeking a job with minimal education requirements. Although additional education isn’t required to attain a position as a taxi driver, those looking to operate a truck or bus professionally should look into Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor certificate programs for further education.

Some car service companies provide automobiles for their drivers which is helpful compared to ride-share employment where one is exclusively using their own vehicle and is solely responsible for gas, maintenance, and insurance on that vehicle which can be costly.

While taxi drivers and chauffeurs share many commonalities, a chauffeur is known to transport their passengers at a scheduled time or regularly. They might be required to load and unload a passenger’s belongings or restock food and beverage options in their vehicle. A career as a chauffeur allows for opportunities like driving a hearse for a funeral home or serving as nonmedical transport for a hospital or nursing home.

Demand for taxi drivers and chauffeurs is expected to increase nationwide by 26%. The median salary for a taxi driver or chauffeur is $29,000. Drivers also tend to increase their salaries with tips which are not included in the official salary data.

Actuaries

An actuary helps companies at the corporate level by using statistics to analyze risk and predict outcomes. They often work alongside insurance companies and professionals in other fields, such as accounting and underwriting, where their skillset is often valued for its positive influences on the company’s continued financial success.

Most actuaries have a Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science, and a license must be obtained in Texas for an actuary to be employed. A degree in Mathematics can also suffice for entry into the field, but you will still need to pass the licensing exam. Two types of licenses are available, and both require extensive preparation. Many students preparing to be an actuary take these exams before graduation.

Although the road to attaining a career as an actuary requires a substantial amount of effort, the payout and the high number of job openings are worth considering. Actuaries in Texas earn a median salary of $101,000, and Texas is projected to hire 110 new actuaries annually until 2028.

Information Security Analysts

An Information Security Analyst builds and maintains computer programs to prevent cyberattacks. They protect our ever-growing (and ever-important) digital realm from dangerous hackers and support day-to-day operations that sustain proper program functions. There are opportunities available in technology, consulting, finance, and government, just to name a few industries.

Most Information Security Analysts have a Bachelor’s degree, and a few obtain a Master’s degree for a higher salary. Many employers prioritize applicants with a Computer and Information Systems degree, which you can receive at many Texas colleges.

With a projected increase in employment of 33% and a median salary of $100,000, a career as an Information Security Analyst is a good fit for those interested in tech, computer systems, or management.

Operations Research Analysts

An Operations Research Analyst evaluates problems and deduces how to make processes more efficient. They can work in a variety of fields, from popular tech companies to the Department of Defense. While many Operations Research Analysts work primarily with computer software, some may go into their respective fields to gather data and other information.

Although many job listings require a Master’s degree, most entry-level positions are satisfied with a Bachelor’s degree in Operations Research. While only a handful of Texas colleges offer this particular degree, many others offer similar programs in Computer Systems Analysis and Market Research.

Operations Analysts can also find work in logistics and supply chain management. Some schools offer supply chain management degrees but a general business, business analyst, math, applied math or management degree are also acceptable. Most jobs use the term analyst to describe their college level-entry level opportunities.

Pursuing a career as an Operations Research Analyst is an excellent option for its 25% projected growth rate and for those seeking to develop a wide range of skills that can be used in a variety of industries.

Personal Care Aides

A Personal Care Aide is often referred to as a caregiver, as many care for elderly patients or patients with disabilities in the patient’s home. With duties like companionship and administering medication, a career as a Personal Care Aide can be fulfilling but emotionally and physically demanding.

Many Personal Care Aides have a high school diploma, and further education isn’t necessary to secure employment. For those seeking formal training, many colleges in Texas offer certification programs as a Nursing Assistant/Aide or Patient Care Assistant/Aide. Closely related to Personal Care Aide is the Home Health Aide role. Training is required for this position, and many Home Health Agencies with jobs provide training to those seeking employment.

The need for this level of assistance is on the rise, with a 33% projected increase through 2030. Although full-time opportunities are available, most Personal Care Aides work part-time and as needed.

Physician Assistants

A career as a Physician Assistant serves as the highly regarded middle-ground between a registered nurse and a physician. While a Physician Assistant can diagnose illnesses and organize treatment plans, they must do so under the supervision of a licensed physician. They can work in any medical care area and develop skills in any medical specialty.

A Master’s degree is required to become a Physician Assistant, and several Texas universities offer credible programs for students considering a career as a Physician Assistant. A license must be obtained from the Texas Medical Board to practice in the state of Texas. Many who enter the field also come with health-related experiences such as past careers as a Nurse, EMT or paramedic, although not required.

Becoming a Physician Assistant can be a rewarding career for those that are inclined toward the sciences and searching for employment that can make a difference first-hand. With a projected increase of 37% and a median salary of $120,000, a career as a Physician Assistant is a great, reputable option.

Dental Assistants

A Dental Assistant provides dental care to patients and may assist with procedures under the supervision of a licensed dentist. While many work directly in patient care, some perform administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and billing.

Several community colleges in Texas offer certificate programs in Dental Assisting that fulfill the requirements needed to obtain employment as a Dental Assistant. A license from the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners is required, and many programs offer extensive preparation for the state exam and their coursework.

Please note that dental assistants are different from dental hygienists. Hygienists give patient exams and provide preventive care as well as the tasks an assistant performs, however, their training is different. An associates degree is typically needed and a license.

Job openings for dental assistants are projected to increase by 36% through 2030, making this career a great option for those seeking part-time or full-time work.

Texas Employment and Job Seeking Resources

The following resources are a list of job boards specific to Texas. Many offer up-to-date job listings for open positions at the state level, with options for employment at universities, colleges, law enforcement, transportation, public utilities, and Texas newspapers. Some resources offer training and further education options, as well as resources specific to veterans and senior citizens.

Texas Workforce Commission

The Texas Workforce Commission posts job listings for the state of Texas and several Texas companies. Here, you can complete your application for jobs at the state level and browse job postings on WorkinTexas.com. You can also find job listings for state universities and local colleges or view jobs in law enforcement. Links are provided for those interested in a career at the federal level or military service.

For those looking to start a new career, the Texas Workforce Commission offers training and education services to prepare new applicants for a successful career in many fields. They provide resources specifically for veterans and a senior community service employment program.

Texas Government Jobs

Texas Government Jobs provides government job postings for every city and county in Texas. Simply select your city or county from their extensive menu to be taken to their website. You can view all full- or part-time work and internship openings. Some cities may advertise temporary or seasonal jobs.

They also offer links to jobs with transportation companies run by government agencies, like Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). You can find public utilities and Texas newspaper links  to browse other career options.

WorkinTexas.com

Closely affiliated with the Texas Workforce Commission, WorkinTexas.com is the state’s premier site for job postings. Any employer operating in Texas can post a job listing on their website, making their offerings diverse and applicable to nearly any professional field. Job seekers can use their website’s search feature to find jobs in any area of Texas and can filter for education level and acceptable salary.

WorkinTexas.com also offers a feature to help job-seekers construct a free resume, resources for veterans, and opportunities for education and training.

Texas Resume Writing Resources

The following resume writing resources provide free help to those looking to write their career documents. Both the resume writing generator offered by the state’s premier job board and several helpful documents from Texas Career Engagement will guide any individual towards resume success.

WorkinTexas.com

In addition to their job board, WorkinTexas.com provides a free service that generates a basic resume. After creating an account on their website, you can input your work history, education, and any additional training. This will generate a resume that is usable for any WorkinTexas.com job posting, making the application process relatively simple.

WorkinTexas.com also offers career guidance, training and education, and information on local employers.

Texas Career Engagement

The University of Texas provides free resume help to the general public with helpful videos and PDFs. Their resume guide breaks down the different sections of a standard resume and explains the intended purpose in an easy-to-understand format. They also offer example resumes for individuals with and without work experience, including volunteer experience. Their list of transferable skills and helpful videos on how to make your resume stand out is a valuable free resource to individuals who are or are not seeking a college degree and can suit a variety of experiences.

For those looking for help writing a cover letter, Texas Career Engagement offers a Cover Letter Guide and Cover Letter Steps as a downloadable PDF, in addition to a video that explains the intended purpose of a well-written cover letter and how it can make a significant impact on your job prospects.

Resume Writing Services in Texas

The following table contains all resume writing services available to those seeking work in Texas. No matter where you are located, this comprehensive table has options local to your area and is intended to help you secure employment in your desired field.