Chief Design Officer Salary in Portland, Oregon

Portland is home to global companies like Nike, Intel, and Adidas. Salaries for chief design officers are the highest in Oregon, driven by fierce competition and high living costs. Many executives receive bonuses or stock options in addition to base pay.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$128,000 to $175,000

Average (per year)

$155,000

Established tech startups and creative agencies with national reach often attract Chief Design Officers new to Portland.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$176,000 to $215,000

Average (per year)

$190,000

Oversee design strategy, mentor junior designers, and align visual direction with business goals.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$216,000 to $260,000

Average (per year)

$235,000

At Nike, Intel, and other Fortune 500 companies with Portland offices, senior leaders manage large design teams.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$261,000+

Global design direction and collaboration with international subsidiaries or board-level stakeholders are typical for prstakeholders.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$61 - $84

per hour

Mid-level

$85 - $102

per hour

Senior

$103 - $127

per hour