Design Director Salary in West Raleigh, North Carolina
West Raleigh is located near Research Triangle Park. Salaries reflect competition from national employers. Experienced directors in the area earn competitive salaries.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $112,000
Average (per year)
$101,000
Early-career Design Directors in West Raleigh earn regional salaries.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$113,000 to $135,000
Average (per year)
$124,000
Mid-level roles command higher pay.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$136,000 to $165,000
Average (per year)
$150,000
Senior Design Directors often earn higher salaries.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$166,000+
Leads strategic design vision, mentors senior teams, and drives cross‑functional product innovation.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$45 - $65
per hour
Mid-level
$66 - $90
per hour
Senior
$91 - $130
per hour