The average mechanical engineer salary in Texas ranges between $95,000 and $100,000 per year, aligning closely with the national average of $96,000. Entry-level engineers typically earn $65,000 to $75,000, while senior professionals with 10+ years of experience can make $110,000 to $140,000.
Top-paying cities include Houston, Dallas, and Austin, with salaries reaching up to $120,000 in high-demand industries like oil & gas, aerospace, and manufacturing. Compared to states like California and New York, Texas offers competitive salaries with a lower cost of living.
Mechanical engineers can increase their earnings through advanced degrees, PE licenses, and industry certifications like Six Sigma and PMP. The job market remains strong, with future salary growth driven by automation, renewable energy, and smart manufacturing.
Average Mechanical Engineer Salary in Texas: Introduction
1- Statewide Salary Trends
The average salary for a mechanical engineer in Texas varies based on experience, location, industry, and educational background. According to recent reports, mechanical engineers in Texas earn an average annual salary of around $95,000 to $100,000.
2- Comparison with the National Average
The national average salary for mechanical engineers in the U.S. is approximately $96,000 per year. Texas salaries are generally in line with the national average, but factors like the cost of living, industry demand, and economic conditions influence earnings.
Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer Salary in Texas
1- Expected Pay for Fresh Graduates
If you’re just starting your career, you can expect an entry-level mechanical engineer salary in Texas to be around $65,000 to $75,000 per year. However, salaries may vary depending on the city, company, and industry.
2- Factors Influencing Starting Salaries
Several factors impact how much a fresh graduate earns, including:
- The reputation of the university or college
- Internships and hands-on experience
- Industry of employment (e.g., oil & gas pays more than manufacturing)
- Geographic location within Texas
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Experienced and Senior Mechanical Engineer Salaries in Texas
1- Mid-Career Salary Expectations
With 5-10 years of experience, mechanical engineers can expect their salaries to rise to $90,000 to $110,000 per year.
2- Salary Growth with Experience and Specialization
Senior mechanical engineers with 10+ years of experience can earn between $110,000 and $140,000 per year, especially if they specialize in high-demand industries such as aerospace, petroleum, or advanced manufacturing.
Highest-Paying Cities for Mechanical Engineers in Texas
Location plays a significant role in determining salaries. Here are some of the highest-paying cities in Texas for mechanical engineers:
- Houston – $100,000 to $120,000 (Strong presence of oil & gas, aerospace, and manufacturing industries)
- Dallas – $95,000 to $110,000 (Home to large engineering and technology firms)
- Austin – $90,000 to $105,000 (Tech-driven city with a growing engineering sector)
- San Antonio – $85,000 to $100,000 (Strong defense and manufacturing industries)
- Fort Worth – $88,000 to $102,000 (Aerospace and transportation sectors contribute to higher pay)
Top-Paying Industries for Mechanical Engineers in Texas
Some industries offer significantly higher salaries for mechanical engineers:
- Oil & Gas – $110,000 to $140,000
- Aerospace & Defense – $100,000 to $125,000
- Manufacturing – $90,000 to $110,000
- Renewable Energy – $85,000 to $105,000
- Automotive & Transportation – $85,000 to $100,000
Texas’ oil and gas industry remains one of the most lucrative sectors, but aerospace and renewable energy are growing rapidly.
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Mechanical Engineer Salary in Texas vs. Other States
Here’s how Texas compares to other states:
- California – $110,000 to $130,000 (Higher cost of living)
- New York – $100,000 to $120,000 (Limited manufacturing jobs)
- Florida – $85,000 to $100,000 (Lower demand for mechanical engineers)
- Texas – $95,000 to $110,000 (Balanced cost of living and high demand for engineers)
Texas offers a competitive salary while maintaining a lower cost of living than California or New York, making it a desirable location for engineers.
Mechanical Engineer Salary Based on Education & Certifications
Impact of a Master’s Degree
Engineers with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering can earn 10-20% more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
PE (Professional Engineer) License
Obtaining a PE license can significantly increase salary potential, allowing engineers to work on more complex projects and take on leadership roles.
Certifications That Boost Salary
- Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)
- Certified Energy Manager (CEM)
- Six Sigma Certification
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
These certifications can lead to salary increases of 5-15%, depending on the industry.
Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Texas: Demand & Market Trends
The demand for mechanical engineers in Texas is strong, with industries like oil & gas, aerospace, and renewable energy fueling job growth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 2-4% growth rate for mechanical engineering jobs in Texas over the next decade.
Growing sectors such as electric vehicle manufacturing, clean energy, and automation are expected to create even more opportunities for engineers in Texas.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Mechanical Engineer in Texas
Here are some strategies to boost your earnings:
- Gain Industry-Specific Skills – Specializing in high-paying fields like petroleum, robotics, or renewable energy can increase your salary.
- Earn a PE License – A Professional Engineer (PE) license can qualify you for higher-paying roles.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications – Certifications in project management, manufacturing, or energy management can enhance your earning potential.
- Network with Professionals – Building connections through engineering organizations and LinkedIn can open doors to higher-paying opportunities.
- Negotiate Your Salary – Don’t be afraid to negotiate based on experience, skills, and industry demand.
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Benefits & Perks Beyond Salary for Mechanical Engineers in Texas
In addition to base salary, many employers offer benefits such as:
- Health Insurance – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement Plans – 401(k) with employer contributions
- Performance Bonuses – Additional income based on company performance
- Paid Time Off (PTO) – Vacation, sick leave, and holidays
- Stock Options – Available in some tech and energy companies
These perks add significant value to a mechanical engineer’s total compensation package.
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Texas: Future Trends & Predictions
With technological advancements and industry shifts, mechanical engineering salaries in Texas are expected to rise. Future trends include:
- Increased demand for automation and robotics engineers
- Growth in renewable energy projects, leading to more engineering jobs
- Higher salaries in AI and smart manufacturing sectors
The average salary for mechanical engineers in Texas could increase by 5-10% over the next five years due to these evolving industry trends.
Conclusion: Is Texas a Good Place for Mechanical Engineers?
Texas remains one of the best states for mechanical engineers due to its high salaries, strong job market, and diverse industries. Whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned professional, Texas offers great opportunities in fields like oil & gas, aerospace, and renewable energy.
With the right skills, certifications, and experience, mechanical engineers in Texas can enjoy competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and long-term career growth. If you’re considering a move or starting your career in mechanical engineering, Texas is a great place to be!
ZAK Engineer is an experienced engineer with 15 years in the mechanical and industrial sectors. Holding advanced degrees and multiple certifications in engineering, he combines technical expertise with a passion for writing to provide valuable insights into engineering innovations and business strategies. His content empowers professionals to excel in their fields and stay updated with the latest industry trends.