Design Director Salary in Kannapolis, North Carolina

Kannapolis hosts businesses. Design directors work in the area. Salaries vary.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$67,000 to $80,000

Average (per year)

$73,500

Entry-level directors join local manufacturing firms, biomedical research centers, or regional agencies, starting at competitive salaries.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$81,000 to $97,000

Average (per year)

$89,000

Oversee design projects, mentor junior staff, and align visual strategy with business goals.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$98,000 to $121,000

Average (per year)

$109,000

Senior design leaders guide corporate identity and product design. Average pay for the area is listed.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$122,000+

Leads strategic design vision, mentors senior teams, and drives cross‑functional brand initiatives.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$36 - $46

per hour

Mid-level

$47 - $59

per hour

Senior

$60 - $75

per hour