Design Director Salary in Mississauga, Ontario

Design directors work with various brands and teams.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

C$80,000 to C$98,000

Average (per year)

C$90,000

Assist senior designers, develop visual concepts, and help maintain brand consistency across projects.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

C$98,000 to C$120,000

Average (per year)

C$109,000

Mid-level directors lead teams on cross-functional projects, especially in pharma, aerospace, and SaaS sectors.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

C$120,000 to C$145,000

Average (per year)

C$134,000

Leads cross‑functional design teams, defines creative strategy, and ensures brand consistency across projects.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

C$145,000+

Principal design directors may consult for large companies or lead innovation labs.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

C$40 - C$55

per hour

Mid-level

C$56 - C$70

per hour

Senior

C$71 - C$90

per hour