How to Become a Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Texas
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in Texas earn a median salary of $49,650/year, which is 15% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators takes home approximately $2,082/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators can afford in Texas
Becoming a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Texas
Meet education requirements
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many operating engineers and other construction equipment operators positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for operating engineers and other construction equipment operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 55,290 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators. The highest concentrations are in Beaumont-Port Arthur and Midland.
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $54K | $26.12/hr | 1,210 |
| Midland | $53K | $25.7/hr | 1,250 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $51K | $24.4/hr | 4,770 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $51K | $24.28/hr | 13,150 |
| Amarillo | $50K | $24.19/hr | 430 |
| Odessa | $50K | $24.11/hr | 890 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $50K | $24.08/hr | 12,120 |
| Sherman-Denison | $50K | $23.93/hr | 200 |
| Corpus Christi | $49K | $23.71/hr | 1,160 |
| Waco | $49K | $23.6/hr | 490 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $49K | $23.58/hr | 3,970 |
| Abilene | $48K | $23.2/hr | 200 |
| Victoria | $48K | $22.86/hr | 160 |
| Tyler | $47K | $22.62/hr | 310 |
| College Station-Bryan | $47K | $22.61/hr | 450 |
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators salary range in Texas
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators make in Texas?▼
The median operating engineers and other construction equipment operators salary in Texas is $49,650 per year ($23.87/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $58,710. Salaries range from $38,240 to $65,740.
What are the requirements to become a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Texas?▼
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $49,650, a operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Texas would take home approximately $3,494/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators in Texas are Beaumont-Port Arthur ($54,320), Midland ($53,450), Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($50,740). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means operating engineers and other construction equipment operators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.