Head of Design Salary in Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario
Waterloo has a strong tech industry and a high concentration of startups. Local employers and top universities contribute to the design ecosystem.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
C$105,000 to C$124,000
Average (per year)
C$114,000
Entry-level Heads of Design join Waterloo's startups or scale-ups, often working alongside engineers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
C$124,000 to C$146,000
Average (per year)
C$135,000
At the mid-level, design leaders find openings at fast-growing SaaS companies and established tech employers.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
C$146,000 to C$168,000
Average (per year)
C$157,000
Senior professionals direct product design strategy at major tech firms or research hubs.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
C$168,000+
Principal Heads of Design move into executive roles at regional or national technology companies with large teams.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
C$80 - C$110
per hour
Mid-level
C$110 - C$150
per hour
Senior
C$150 - C$200
per hour