Chief Design Officer Salary in Orange County, North Carolina
Orange County has a large tech sector. High cost of living and major corporate employers raise chief design officer salaries well above the state average.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$121,000 to $156,000
Average (per year)
$137,000
Research universities, biotech startups, and major healthcare networks often hire entry-level officers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$157,000 to $191,000
Average (per year)
$174,000
Mid-level leaders coordinate design teams for large technology, pharmaceutical, or software employers.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$192,000 to $229,000
Average (per year)
$211,000
Leads design strategy, oversees cross‑functional teams, and ensures brand consistency across products.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$230,000+
Across multiple divisions of Fortune 500 headquarters or major research institutions, principal chief design officers shtitutions.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$60 - $78
per hour
Mid-level
$79 - $96
per hour
Senior
$97 - $118
per hour