Chief Design Officer Salary in Pima County, Arizona

Pima County includes Tucson, which has strong aerospace, healthcare, and education sectors. Chief Design Officer salaries reflect moderate living costs and steady employer demand in both government and private industry.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$112,000 to $140,000

Average (per year)

$126,000

Assist senior designers in developing brand visuals, conduct research, and support design strategy implementation.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$142,000 to $170,000

Average (per year)

$156,000

Oversee design projects, coordinate cross‑functional teams, and ensure brand consistency across initiatives.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$170,000 to $200,000

Average (per year)

$185,000

Leads design strategy, oversees cross‑functional teams, and ensures brand consistency across products.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$200,000+

At the principal level, officers lead design strategy for large employers and major institutions, with salaries starting at $200,000.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$55 - $80

per hour

Mid-level

$85 - $115

per hour

Senior

$125 - $170

per hour