Chief Design Officer Salary in Dearborn, Michigan

Dearborn is home to Ford Motor Company and a large engineering workforce. Major automotive and technology employers offer Chief Design Officer salaries. The city's proximity to Detroit and strong tech partnerships drive executive compensation up.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$96,000 to $123,000

Average (per year)

$109,500

Ford and major suppliers employ early-career design executives.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$124,000 to $148,000

Average (per year)

$136,000

Mid-level Chief Design Officers manage teams and digital product lines.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$149,000 to $180,000

Average (per year)

$165,000

Senior executives oversee multi-disciplinary design projects, often with substantial bonus and equity incentives.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$181,000+

Veteran leaders at automotive giants or large tech divisions earn top salaries and manage global design teams.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$47 - $62

per hour

Mid-level

$63 - $80

per hour

Senior

$81 - $105

per hour