Chief Design Officer Salary in Fairfax County, Virginia
Fairfax County includes technology, defense, and government contracting firms. High living costs and proximity to Washington, D.C. Influence executive compensation. Design leaders in the area work for firms with digital priorities.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $180,000
Average (per year)
$162,000
Early-career executives with design backgrounds may work at consultancies or government contractors.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$182,000 to $225,000
Average (per year)
$203,000
Mid-level leaders in this county hold positions at technology or defense firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$228,000 to $265,000
Average (per year)
$247,000
Senior Chief Design Officers focus on compensation negotiations, especially with federal contractors or software firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$270,000+
Executives with more than a decade of experience work for major employers in the D.C. Metro area.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$72 - $90
per hour
Mid-level
$91 - $110
per hour
Senior
$111 - $138
per hour