Design Manager Salary in McLennan County
McLennan County, home to Waco, benefits from Baylor University. Employers hire experienced Design Managers. Salaries depend on market conditions.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$61,000 to $73,000
Average (per year)
$67,000
Graduates and early-career professionals find jobs with local construction, manufacturing, and university-affiliated design teams.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$73,000 to $90,000
Average (per year)
$83,000
Advancing to mid-level, managers handle larger projects for healthcare, education, or tech employers in Waco.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $106,000
Average (per year)
$98,000
Senior Design Managers oversee major developments and multi-phase infrastructure across the county.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$106,000+
Principal roles involve leading design strategy for large employers or consulting on city-wide initiatives.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$32 - $39
per hour
Mid-level
$40 - $50
per hour
Senior
$51 - $65
per hour