Head of Design Salary in Merced County, California
Merced County has a strong presence in agriculture and public education, with salaries reflecting the lower cost of living compared to coastal California. Design leaders work with healthcare systems, schools, and logistics companies. The regional economy affects design salaries.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$85,000 to $105,000
Average (per year)
$95,000
Entry-level heads of design work with healthcare systems, local education, and agriculture companies, handling smaller teams and budgets.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000 to $130,000
Average (per year)
$117,000
Mid-level roles in Merced County focus on expanding digital services for local government and regional businesses.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$130,000 to $155,000
Average (per year)
$142,000
Senior heads of design lead cross-functional teams and manage design strategy for major employers in education and logistics.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$155,000+
Principal-level leaders work with executive teams in large local organizations and occasionally support remote teams for national firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$45 - $60
per hour
Mid-level
$60 - $80
per hour
Senior
$80 - $105
per hour