Chief Design Officer Salary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee supports a strong corporate presence with several Fortune 500 employers and a growing digital sector. Chief Design Officers here often manage large teams and oversee branding or product design at regional headquarters. Competition for executive talent drives upper-tier salaries.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000 to $135,000
Average (per year)
$120,000
Assist senior designers in developing visual concepts, preparing mockups, and conducting design research.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$136,000 to $165,000
Average (per year)
$150,000
Mid-tier salaries reflect demand from regional headquarters and healthcare systems investing in design leadership.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$166,000 to $196,000
Average (per year)
$181,000
Experienced CDOs earn higher pay, especially at top employers like Northwestern Mutual and Rockwell Automation.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$197,000+
Principal-level leaders often sit on executive teams and drive strategic design operations for major corporations.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$75 - $105
per hour
Mid-level
$106 - $135
per hour
Senior
$136 - $180
per hour