Design Manager Salary in San Jose, California
San Jose is the center of Silicon Valley, with a high cost of living and intense demand for design talent. Design managers at tech companies and startups receive salaries that vary with market conditions and local cost of living.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$85,000 to $105,000
Average (per year)
$95,000
Entry-level salaries for design managers depend on employer and location.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $138,000
Average (per year)
$129,000
Mid-level design managers work at software and hardware companies and receive salaries reflecting their experience.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000 to $162,000
Average (per year)
$153,000
Senior design managers oversee large teams in tech firms and earn salaries that reflect senior-level responsibilities.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$170,000+
Principal design roles involve corporate design leadership or cross-functional innovation labs and offer competitive compensation.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$42 - $55
per hour
Mid-level
$61 - $73
per hour
Senior
$78 - $95
per hour