Design Manager Salary in Kitsap County
Kitsap County sits across from Seattle, drawing on both defense and maritime industries. Design manager pay is above rural averages, while living costs remain below urban King County. Major employers include the naval shipyard, engineering firms, and government agencies.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$74,000 to $90,000
Average (per year)
$82,000
Entry-level managers here work with defense contractors, local agencies, or construction firms, receiving entry-level pay.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$91,000 to $110,000
Average (per year)
$100,000
Demand from the naval base and engineering consultancies leads to higher pay for mid-level design managers with several years of experience.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$111,000 to $128,000
Average (per year)
$119,500
Senior managers oversee large projects or multidisciplinary teams in sectors tied to defense or maritime industries.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$129,000+
When working with major federal contractors or in senior government roles, principal and lead managers earn higher salaries.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$39 - $54
per hour
Mid-level
$55 - $70
per hour
Senior
$71 - $89
per hour