Head of Design Salary in Waterloo, Ontario

Waterloo has tech companies and a university. Design leaders are needed in software and R&D. Salaries depend on market conditions.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

C$98,000 to C$120,000

Average (per year)

C$108,000

Entry-level heads of design work at tech startups or university-affiliated companies.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

C$120,000 to C$144,000

Average (per year)

C$132,000

In mid-level positions, heads of design lead multi-disciplinary teams at established software or hardware firms.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

C$144,000 to C$168,000

Average (per year)

C$155,000

Senior design heads oversee projects at tech leaders and larger research-driven organizations.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

C$168,000+

At the principal level, heads of design define vision for technology companies and university spin-offs.

Hourly Rates

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

Junior

C$49 - C$61

per hour

Mid-level

C$61 - C$73

per hour

Senior

C$73 - C$87

per hour