The Top 10 Most In-Demand Manufacturing Jobs in Texas Right Now
Discover which manufacturing positions are in highest demand across Texas and what qualifications employers are seeking.
The Top 10 Most In-Demand Manufacturing Jobs in Texas Right Now
Texas's manufacturing sector is experiencing explosive growth, with new facilities opening regularly and existing operations expanding. This growth has created unprecedented demand for skilled manufacturing professionals across a wide range of positions. If you're looking to advance your manufacturing career or considering entering the industry, understanding which roles are in highest demand can help guide your career decisions.
1. Manufacturing Engineers
Why They're In Demand: Manufacturing engineers are critical for optimizing production processes, improving efficiency, and implementing new technologies. As companies invest in automation and advanced manufacturing systems, the need for engineers who can design, implement, and maintain these systems has skyrocketed.
What Employers Want:
- Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering
- Experience with CAD/CAM software
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles
- Process improvement experience
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Salary Range: $75,000 - $120,000+
Where the Jobs Are: Strong demand across all major Texas manufacturing hubs, with particularly high demand in automotive, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing.
2. Production Supervisors
Why They're In Demand: Production supervisors are the backbone of manufacturing operations. They ensure daily production targets are met while maintaining quality and safety standards. With many experienced supervisors retiring, companies are actively seeking their replacements.
What Employers Want:
- 3-5 years of supervisory experience in manufacturing
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Knowledge of production processes and quality standards
- Ability to work in fast-paced environments
- Experience with lean manufacturing principles
Salary Range: $55,000 - $85,000
Where the Jobs Are: High demand across all manufacturing industries, with particular need in food & beverage, automotive, and plastics manufacturing.
3. Quality Control/Quality Assurance Specialists
Why They're In Demand: Quality is non-negotiable in manufacturing, especially in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices where regulatory compliance is critical. Quality professionals ensure products meet specifications and regulatory requirements.
What Employers Want:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Quality, Engineering, or related field
- Experience with quality management systems (ISO, AS9100, etc.)
- Knowledge of statistical process control
- Attention to detail and analytical skills
- Industry-specific certifications (preferred)
Salary Range: $50,000 - $90,000
Where the Jobs Are: Particularly high demand in aerospace, automotive, medical device, and electronics manufacturing.
4. Maintenance Technicians
Why They're In Demand: Manufacturing equipment is becoming more complex, requiring skilled technicians to maintain and repair it. Preventive maintenance is critical for minimizing downtime, making maintenance technicians essential to operations.
What Employers Want:
- Technical degree or certification in maintenance, electrical, or mechanical
- Experience with industrial equipment maintenance
- Knowledge of PLCs, hydraulics, pneumatics
- Preventive maintenance program experience
- Strong troubleshooting skills
Salary Range: $45,000 - $75,000
Where the Jobs Are: Universal demand across all manufacturing industries.
5. CNC Machinists
Why They're In Demand: CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is central to modern manufacturing. Skilled CNC machinists who can program, set up, and operate CNC equipment are in constant demand.
What Employers Want:
- Technical training or certification in CNC machining
- Experience with CNC programming (G-code)
- Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings
- Knowledge of machining processes and materials
- Attention to detail and quality focus
Salary Range: $40,000 - $70,000
Where the Jobs Are: High demand in aerospace, automotive, industrial machinery, and metal fabrication.
6. Welders and Fabricators
Why They're In Demand: Welding and metal fabrication are essential skills in many manufacturing sectors, from automotive to oil & gas equipment. Skilled welders who can work to precise specifications are always in demand.
What Employers Want:
- Welding certification (AWS preferred)
- Experience with various welding processes (MIG, TIG, stick)
- Ability to read blueprints
- Knowledge of metallurgy and welding codes
- Physical stamina and attention to safety
Salary Range: $40,000 - $75,000
Where the Jobs Are: Particularly high demand in metal fabrication, oil & gas equipment, and industrial machinery.
7. Plant Managers
Why They're In Demand: Plant managers are responsible for overall operations, making them critical to manufacturing success. As companies expand and open new facilities, the need for experienced plant managers has grown significantly.
What Employers Want:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field
- 5+ years of manufacturing management experience
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Experience with lean manufacturing principles
- Budget and P&L management experience
Salary Range: $90,000 - $150,000+
Where the Jobs Are: High demand across all industries, with particular need in automotive, aerospace, and food & beverage.
8. Supply Chain and Logistics Coordinators
Why They're In Demand: Efficient supply chain management is critical for manufacturing success. Companies need professionals who can manage inventory, coordinate with suppliers, and ensure materials flow smoothly through operations.
What Employers Want:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business
- Experience with ERP systems
- Knowledge of inventory management
- Strong analytical and organizational skills
- Experience with vendor management
Salary Range: $50,000 - $85,000
Where the Jobs Are: Universal demand across all manufacturing industries.
9. Safety and Compliance Officers
Why They're In Demand: Workplace safety and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable. Safety professionals who can develop and implement effective safety programs are essential, especially in industries with high regulatory requirements.
What Employers Want:
- Bachelor's degree in Safety, Environmental Science, or related field
- OSHA certifications (30-hour, 40-hour, CSP preferred)
- Experience with safety program development
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements
- Strong communication and training skills
Salary Range: $55,000 - $95,000
Where the Jobs Are: High demand across all industries, with particular need in oil & gas, chemical, and aerospace.
10. Process Technicians
Why They're In Demand: Process technicians monitor and control manufacturing processes, ensuring products are produced to specification. As manufacturing becomes more automated and data-driven, the need for skilled process technicians has grown.
What Employers Want:
- Technical training or Associate's degree
- Experience with process control systems
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes
- Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve
- Attention to detail
Salary Range: $40,000 - $65,000
Where the Jobs Are: High demand in food & beverage, chemicals, plastics, and electronics manufacturing.
Trends to Watch
Several trends are shaping demand for manufacturing jobs:
Automation Integration: As companies implement more automation, there's growing demand for workers who can work alongside automated systems, program equipment, and troubleshoot issues.
Data Analytics: Manufacturing is becoming more data-driven, creating demand for workers who can analyze production data and make data-informed decisions.
Sustainability Focus: Companies are increasingly focused on sustainability, creating demand for workers who understand energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Cross-Functional Skills: Employers increasingly value workers who can work across functions—for example, quality professionals who understand production processes, or maintenance technicians who can contribute to process improvement.
How to Position Yourself
If you're interested in one of these in-demand roles:
- Assess Your Skills: Compare your current skills and experience with what employers are seeking
- Fill the Gaps: Identify any skill gaps and develop a plan to address them through training, certification, or experience
- Network: Connect with professionals in your target role and industry
- Work with a Recruiter: Specialized manufacturing recruiters can help you identify opportunities that match your skills and career goals
The Bottom Line
The Texas manufacturing sector offers abundant opportunities for skilled professionals. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to advance, understanding which roles are in highest demand can help you make informed career decisions and position yourself for success.
At The Hammitt Group, we work with manufacturers across Texas to fill these in-demand positions. If you're looking to advance your manufacturing career, we can help you find opportunities that match your skills and career goals.
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