Chief Design Officer Salary in Macomb County

Macomb County sits within the Detroit metro, a region shaped by automotive, defense, and advanced manufacturing. Design executive salaries here are higher than in smaller Michigan counties, pushed up by major employers and a competitive engineering talent market. Cost of living remains moderate compared to coastal U.S. Cities.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$137,000 to $163,000

Average (per year)

$149,000

Chief Design Officers in Macomb County often join automotive suppliers or advanced manufacturing firms, where design leae design leadership is valued but salaries start below larger city benchmarks.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$164,000 to $197,000

Average (per year)

$180,000

A strong regional economy and high competition for experienced talent benefit mid-level professionals working in automotmy and higher competition for experienced talent.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$198,000 to $236,000

Average (per year)

$217,000

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

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$237,000+

Salaries above $250,000 are often driven by regional influence and extensive experience in principal-level roles at larg drive salaries above $250,000.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$80 - $110

per hour

Mid-level

$111 - $145

per hour

Senior

$146 - $190

per hour