Chief Design Officer Salary in Knox County, Tennessee
Knox County has a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and higher education employers. Design leaders here earn varying salaries. Cost of living affects pay for executive design roles.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$115,000 to $133,000
Average (per year)
$124,000
Junior Chief Design Officers in Knoxville-area firms, healthcare systems, and regional colleges start here.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$134,000 to $152,000
Average (per year)
$143,000
Design leaders with experience in manufacturing, higher education, or local agencies move into this range.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$153,000 to $176,000
Average (per year)
$164,000
Senior executives in larger Knoxville corporations or regional headquarters command these figures.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$177,000+
Principal CDOs with advanced portfolios and oversight of university partnerships or hospital systems reach this tier.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$56 - $68
per hour
Mid-level
$69 - $82
per hour
Senior
$83 - $96
per hour