This chart shows the distribution of wages across government functions. Since public education at all levels employs the most people, not surprisingly the largest share of government payroll is devoted to education. Wage levels vary a good deal by level and function of government ranging from a low of $22,000 per full-time employee in elementary and secondary educational support positions up to $72,000 for the average instructional worker in higher education. Overall, the Texas average full-time wage of $39,800 lags the national average of $43,300.