Chief Design Officer Salary in Tompkins County

Tompkins County is anchored by Cornell University and a growing number of tech startups. Chief design officer salaries are influenced by research and educational initiatives.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$108,000 to $142,000

Average (per year)

$123,000

Assist senior designers in developing brand guidelines, conduct research, and support design project coordination.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$143,000 to $182,000

Average (per year)

$162,000

Mid-level salaries reflect the demand for digital product leadership.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$183,000 to $220,000

Average (per year)

$200,000

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

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$221,000+

Leads strategic design vision, oversees cross‑functional teams, and drives innovation across the organization.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$54 - $76

per hour

Mid-level

$77 - $106

per hour

Senior

$107 - $135

per hour