Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas Salary in Houston, TX
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX
Compare Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas salary & buying power
Type a city below to see how Houston, TX stacks up on salary and cost of living.
In Houston, TX, Service Unit Operators in the oil and gas sector typically earn a median annual salary of $50,100, with an average hourly wage of $24.09. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $57,980. When compared to the local median household income of $80,458, it becomes evident that these operators earn approximately 62% of what a typical Houston household makes annually. Despite Houston's robust oil and gas industry, Service Unit Operators' earnings reflect broader economic trends within the sector and region, with their salaries trailing behind both national averages for similar roles and local household incomes.
The salary range for entry-level versus experienced Service Unit Operators in Houston shows significant variation driven primarily by skill level, experience, and job complexity. At the 10th percentile, earners receive approximately $40,450 annually, indicating a starting point for those with minimal industry experience or qualifications. Conversely, those at the 90th percentile earn up to $80,090 per year, reflecting advanced expertise, additional responsibilities, or specialized skills that significantly increase earning potential. The disparity between these earnings underscores the value of professional development and accumulated experience within this field, as operators who advance in their careers can see substantial salary increases compared to their entry-level counterparts.
Salary percentile breakdown
Houston economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas make per hour in Houston?
The median hourly wage for Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas in Houston, TX is $24.09, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $38.02 or more per hour.
Is Houston above or below average for Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas salaries?
The median Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas salary in Houston, TX is 13.6% below the national median of $57,980. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas in Houston?
Entry-level Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas (10th percentile) earn around $40,450 per year in Houston, TX. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $48,790.