Design Director Salary in Smyrna, Tennessee
Smyrna's economy centers on automotive manufacturing and logistics, with Nissan as a major employer. Design Directors' salaries are reported in salary surveys. Cost of living varies by region.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$71,000 to $88,000
Average (per year)
$80,000
Entry-level Design Directors in Smyrna support manufacturing, supply chain, or small agency projects.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$89,000 to $105,000
Average (per year)
$97,000
Mid-level positions connect directly to Nissan's operations or logistics firms, where cross‑functional project experience is required.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$106,000 to $124,000
Average (per year)
$115,000
Senior Design Directors manage teams for manufacturers or lead projects for regional marketing agencies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$125,000+
Principal-level positions in Smyrna are located at auto manufacturing plants and regional design consultancies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $52
per hour
Mid-level
$53 - $66
per hour
Senior
$67 - $83
per hour