Design Director Salary in Cayuga County
Cayuga County has a strong presence of education and public sector employers, plus several midsize manufacturers. Auburn participates in hiring for creative leads. Design directors here earn moderate salaries, with lower housing costs stretching pay further than in major metro areas.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$54,000 to $67,000
Average (per year)
$60,500
Starting directors work in education, nonprofit, or municipal settings.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,000 to $82,000
Average (per year)
$76,000
Mid-level directors oversee creative teams serving local manufacturers and service businesses.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$87,000 to $99,000
Average (per year)
$93,000
Senior roles involve overseeing projects for Auburn's larger employers or regional agencies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$103,000+
Principal directors find opportunities with the county's largest institutions.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$29 - $36
per hour
Mid-level
$38 - $52
per hour
Senior
$54 - $65
per hour