Chief Design Officer Salary in Cayuga County
Cayuga County sits in New York's Finger Lakes region. CDO pay reflects the lower cost of living compared to nearby metros like Syracuse. Regional firms offer stable compensation and benefits.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$83,000 to $99,000
Average (per year)
$91,000
Local manufacturers and public-sector employers often provide opportunities for entry-level Chief Design Officers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$99,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$110,000
Regional companies with digital teams or those supplying the Syracuse market typically offer mid-level salaries.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $140,000
Average (per year)
$130,000
Established engineering or healthcare organizations frequently employ senior CDOs.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$140,000+
Executives at the largest regional firms or those with multi-site operations earn principal-level salaries.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$40 - $56
per hour
Mid-level
$56 - $75
per hour
Senior
$75 - $98
per hour