Design Manager Salary in Middlesbrough, United Kingdom

Middlesbrough offers a median salary of £39,000. Mid‑level design managers in the Tees Valley command this amount while overseeing product teams for manufacturing and digital firms. Local cost of living influences salary levels.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

£28,000 to £35,000

Average (per year)

£32,000

Entry-level roles in Middlesbrough have starting salaries influenced by the city's manufacturing heritage.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

£35,000 to £43,000

Average (per year)

£39,000

Mid-level Design Managers find opportunities in local engineering firms and regeneration initiatives, with pay growth varying.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

£43,000 to £52,000

Average (per year)

£47,000

With more experience, senior managers lead design for regional tech start-ups or large-scale public projects, resulting in higher salaries.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

£52,000+

Principal Design Managers in Middlesbrough earn higher salaries, particularly within established engineering companies.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

£16 - £23

per hour

Mid-level

£23 - £33

per hour

Senior

£33 - £44

per hour

Compared with the UK average, Middlesbrough sits below the national median. Living costs affect designers' purchasing power relative to salaries.