Head of Design Salary in Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Dearborn Heights includes automotive and manufacturing companies. The cost of living is slightly lower. Local employers include suppliers and mid-sized tech firms.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $94,000
Average (per year)
$86,000
Design leaders in their first roles work at smaller agencies or automotive suppliers.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$94,000 to $120,000
Average (per year)
$107,000
Mid-career heads of design join mid-size manufacturing or tech-adjacent firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$120,000 to $148,000
Average (per year)
$134,000
Senior professionals lead design teams at large automotive or engineering companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$148,000+
Principal heads manage design strategy across corporate divisions or lead innovation at major employers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $52
per hour
Mid-level
$52 - $62
per hour
Senior
$62 - $78
per hour