Head of Design Salary in Auburn, Alabama
Auburn includes a university, engineering firms, and local startups. Salaries in the area differ by occupation. The cost of living is moderate.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$76,000 to $97,000
Average (per year)
$86,000
Recent graduates and early‑career managers begin in tech‑adjacent roles at Auburn University or local startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$98,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$109,000
Designers can work in education, healthcare, or regional software firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$121,000 to $142,000
Average (per year)
$132,000
Senior leaders oversee multi‑disciplinary groups and large projects for university initiatives or tech employers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$145,000+
Veteran design leaders can hold regional roles or direct design strategy for expanding companies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$50 - $68
per hour
Mid-level
$70 - $90
per hour
Senior
$92 - $120
per hour