Design Director Salary in Hawthorne, New Jersey
Hawthorne is located in the area. Salaries for Design Directors vary. Cost of living varies.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Early-career Design Directors in Hawthorne take on small teams and assist with visual branding for local agencies and manufacturers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $143,000
Average (per year)
$131,500
Oversee design projects, mentor junior designers, and align visual strategy with business goals.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$143,000 to $160,000
Average (per year)
$151,500
Veterans in this tier lead creative direction for established firms or larger agencies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$160,000+
Leads strategic design vision, mentors senior teams, and drives cross‑functional innovation initiatives.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$55 - $75
per hour
Mid-level
$75 - $105
per hour
Senior
$105 - $140
per hour