Design Director Salary in Esslingen, Baden-Württemberg

Esslingen is located near Stuttgart. Design Directors work among manufacturing firms and digital start-ups in the region. Salary ranges vary for experienced talent.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

€69,000 to €82,000

Average (per year)

€75,500

New graduates find opportunities in industrial design or digital agencies with regional clients.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

€82,000 to €97,000

Average (per year)

€89,500

Mid-level Design Directors manage teams for engineering firms or expanding e-commerce businesses.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

€97,000 to €111,000

Average (per year)

€104,000

Senior roles come with responsibility for innovation in automotive, logistics, or tech enterprises.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

€111,000+

Principal Design Directors shape long-term strategy at large industrial or multinational companies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

€41 - €56

per hour

Mid-level

€56 - €78

per hour

Senior

€78 - €105

per hour