Design Director Salary in Milpitas, California
Milpitas sits at the edge of Silicon Valley and hosts technology and electronics companies. Compensation levels may reflect demand for design leadership. Living costs in Milpitas should be considered when evaluating compensation.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000 to $135,000
Average (per year)
$120,000
Entry-level Design Directors in Milpitas join hardware, semiconductor, or manufacturing firms clustered around Silicon Valley.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$135,000 to $165,000
Average (per year)
$150,000
After gaining experience, design leaders oversee product launches and manage multidisciplinary teams.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$165,000 to $200,000
Average (per year)
$182,500
Senior Design Directors earn salaries that reflect their responsibilities, particularly when working with major technology companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$200,000+
Principal or Lead roles offer salaries that align with experience in global tech firms or large-scale product design.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$60 - $85
per hour
Mid-level
$85 - $120
per hour
Senior
$120 - $160
per hour