Design Director Salary in Sandoval County
Sandoval County sits near Albuquerque. Cost of living stays below the national average, which tempers salary growth compared to coastal cities. Demand comes from public sector contracts, healthcare systems, and architectural firms.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$73,000 to $91,500
Average (per year)
$82,000
New hires in Sandoval County support regional architecture firms or health system marketing teams.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$91,000 to $110,000
Average (per year)
$100,000
Mid-level directors oversee design for educational institutions, local agencies, or contractors serving the Albuquerque querque metro.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$109,000 to $129,000
Average (per year)
$119,000
Senior roles manage teams for established businesses in construction, healthcare, and government.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$128,000+
Principal directors guide strategy at local employers or run their own consultancies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $54
per hour
Mid-level
$54 - $70
per hour
Senior
$71 - $95
per hour