Head of Design Salary in Merced, California
Merced's economy includes education and agriculture, and the University of California, Merced is an employer in the city. Design leader salaries in the city correspond to the local cost of living and the scale of the tech sector. Education and healthcare are sectors that include high-paying roles in the area.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$88,000 to $105,000
Average (per year)
$96,000
In Merced, entry-level design leaders may work in education, agriculture, or local tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$106,000 to $122,000
Average (per year)
$114,000
Mid-level Heads of Design in the area are employed by organizations associated with the University of California, Merced or regional healthcare.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$123,000 to $139,000
Average (per year)
$131,000
Senior design heads in Merced lead larger teams and manage complex design portfolios for public or private institutions.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$140,000+
Principal design positions are found in higher education institutions and regional headquarters.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$43 - $57
per hour
Mid-level
$58 - $75
per hour
Senior
$76 - $100
per hour