Chief Design Officer Salary in Pasadena, California
Pasadena benefits from a strong tech and engineering sector anchored by Caltech, JPL, and established design agencies. Employers value executive experience, driving salaries above regional averages. Housing costs are high, but not as steep as in Silicon Valley.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $178,000
Average (per year)
$161,000
Chief Design Officers in Pasadena usually find roles at mid-sized tech firms or creative agencies, with pay reflecting treflecting the city's strong presence of engineering and science employers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$179,000 to $220,000
Average (per year)
$198,000
Pasadena's connections to Caltech and JPL often drive higher salaries for mid-level executives working in aerospace, sofa's connections to Caltech and JPL.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$221,000 to $265,000
Average (per year)
$243,000
Experience and advanced credentials allow senior leaders to secure top-tier compensation while shaping design at establiials for top-tier compensation.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$266,000+
Incentives and long-term awards often boost the total pay of Principal/Lead officers who influence product strategy at my incentives and long-term awards.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$80 - $120
per hour
Mid-level
$121 - $170
per hour
Senior
$171 - $240
per hour