Texas Upstream Oil and Gas Jobs Dip Slightly Amid Ongoing Industry Growth

Jobs in Texas’s upstream oil and natural gas sectors fell by 1,400 in July, following a revised loss of 1,500 in June, the Texas Oil & Gas Workers Association (TXOGA) reported. Despite recent monthly declines, year-to-date growth remains positive with 4,300 new upstream jobs added so far in 2025.

The upstream sector, which includes oil and natural gas extraction and certain types of mining, is distinct from refining, petrochemicals, pipelines, and other related industries that together support hundreds of thousands more jobs statewide. Jobs in this sector remain among the highest paid in Texas, averaging $128,000 in 2024.

TXOGA President Todd Staples noted, “Forecasts for lower prices can slow industry growth plans. However, with approximately 8 billion cubic feet per day of new LNG export capacity under development in Texas and multiple infrastructure projects announced, we remain optimistic that stable global market conditions will strengthen demand and reinforce our energy workforce.”

Since the COVID-era low point in September 2020, the upstream sector has added 51,200 jobs, a 33.7% increase, averaging 875 new jobs monthly. The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) reported that total upstream employment in Texas reached 205,200 in July, with a slight increase in oil and gas extraction jobs offset by declines in services jobs.

TIPRO President Ed Longanecker emphasized the sector’s strong position, saying, “Texas oil and gas producers have gained significant market, regulatory, and fiscal advantages, which will continue to fuel America’s energy dominance, with Texas as the leader.”

Job postings in the Texas upstream sector increased to 8,853 in July, reflecting ongoing demand for skilled workers. Additionally, Texas energy producers paid $433 million in oil production taxes and $178 million in natural gas production taxes last month, supporting vital public services.

Texas also continues to lead the nation in crude oil production, reaching 5.752 million barrels per day in May, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.