Design Manager Salary in City of Portsmouth, Virginia
Portsmouth has a smaller population but is closely linked to the Hampton Roads region. Local employers include the naval hospital, city agencies, and small manufacturers. Salaries sit below larger neighbors in the region.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$62,000 to $76,000
Average (per year)
$69,000
Graduates in Portsmouth start in government, logistics, or small design consultancies.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$77,000 to $90,000
Average (per year)
$83,500
Mid-level roles involve staff coordinating projects for the city, the port, or hospital systems.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$91,000 to $105,000
Average (per year)
$98,000
Senior managers lead teams on large municipal or infrastructure projects.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$106,000+
Principal and lead design managers work for regional engineering firms or manage city-wide initiatives.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$30 - $37
per hour
Mid-level
$39 - $47
per hour
Senior
$49 - $57
per hour