Head of Design Salary in Santa Clara County, California
Santa Clara County sits at the heart of Silicon Valley. Major technology companies set high salary benchmarks for design leaders, often pairing base pay with equity. Cost of living and competition for talent push compensation toward the top.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$150,000 to $180,000
Average (per year)
$165,000
Entry-level Heads of Design in Santa Clara County earn starting salaries that reflect the presence of major tech firms.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$180,000 to $235,000
Average (per year)
$207,500
Mid-level salaries increase as design leaders work with large teams at companies like Apple, Google, and Adobe, driving innovation in consumer and enterprise products.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$235,000 to $295,000
Average (per year)
$265,000
Senior Heads oversee cross-functional design units, often receiving stock and bonuses.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$295,000+
Principal and Lead-level Heads of Design manage strategy and lead design teams.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$90 - $130
per hour
Mid-level
$130 - $190
per hour
Senior
$190 - $290
per hour