Design Manager Salary in Albemarle County

Albemarle County includes educational institutions and healthcare systems. Salaries for design managers in architecture and digital agencies are reported. The tech industry in the area is limited.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$67,000 to $82,500

Average (per year)

$76,000

Recent graduates begin in architectural, design, or tech-adjacent firms.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$83,000 to $103,000

Average (per year)

$95,000

With several years of experience, managers move into larger organizations or university-affiliated studios.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$104,000 to $125,000

Average (per year)

$114,000

Senior managers oversee teams or strategic projects in sectors like healthcare or education.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$126,000+

Principal-level roles include leading design departments or serving as creative directors for major employers.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

$34 - $41

per hour

Mid-level

$42 - $52

per hour

Senior

$53 - $63

per hour