(WO) – Texas upstream oil and gas employment declined in early 2026, even as hiring activity remained elevated, according to new data from the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO).
Employment in the state’s upstream sector fell by 900 jobs between January and February, including a loss of 300 positions in oil and natural gas extraction and 600 jobs in support activities, based on the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data cited by TIPRO.
Despite the decline, workforce demand remains resilient. TIPRO reported 8,554 unique oil and natural gas job postings in Texas in February, including 3,706 new postings. The state continued to lead the nation in energy job listings, well ahead of California, Pennsylvania and Ohio.
Support activities for oil and gas operations accounted for the largest share of postings, followed by gasoline stations, petroleum refineries and natural gas pipeline transportation. Houston led all cities with 2,207 job postings, followed by Midland, Odessa and Dallas.
Major employers driving hiring activity included Energy Transfer, ExxonMobil, Love’s and Baker Hughes. Many roles were concentrated in logistics and field operations, including truck drivers, maintenance workers and pump operators.
TIPRO also highlighted the sector’s continued economic impact. Texas producers generated more than $1 billion in oil production taxes and $550 million in natural gas production taxes in the first quarter of 2026, supporting public infrastructure and services statewide.
“At a time when global energy markets are experiencing significant volatility due to the ongoing conflict with Iran and risks in the Strait of Hormuz, our state’s leadership on energy production is more vital than ever,” said Ed Longanecker, president of TIPRO. “Sustained output, disciplined workforce management and substantial tax contributions underscore Texas’ critical role… in stabilizing global supply and strengthening U.S. energy security.”
U.S. crude oil production is projected to exceed 13.5 million bpd in 2026, with Texas remaining the primary driver of output growth, reinforcing its central role in domestic supply amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.
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