Design Director Salary in San Jose, California
San Jose is located in Silicon Valley. Tech firms, including Apple and Cisco, drive demand for design directors in the area. The city has a steep cost of living and strong competition for design director roles.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$110,000 to $132,000
Average (per year)
$121,000
Entry-level directors join fast-growing startups or support product teams for tech giants.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$133,000 to $157,000
Average (per year)
$145,000
Mid-level professionals work for established Silicon Valley firms with demanding design needs.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$158,000 to $185,000
Average (per year)
$171,500
Senior directors manage teams on projects within the technology sector.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$186,000+
Principal-level leaders work at top tech companies or multinational headquarters.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$55 - $68
per hour
Mid-level
$69 - $87
per hour
Senior
$88 - $105
per hour