WHERE THE JOBS ARE: Texas to Play Significant Role in Future U.S. Crude Oil Growth. “The Eagle Ford shale boom has brought tremendous opportunities to South Texas in terms of jobs. For example, an 18-year old high school graduate who can pass a drug test can earn $55,000 a year working in the Eagle Ford, and if they have a commercial driver’s license, they can earn $80,000 a year for a starting salary, said state Sen. Carlos Uresti (D-San Antonio).”