Head of Design Salary in Flathead County

Flathead County offers an outdoor lifestyle and includes a tech sector in Kalispell. Manufacturing and tourism companies drive much of the design hiring. Salaries trend lower than national averages but reflect the area's lower cost of living.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$76,000 to $90,000

Average (per year)

$83,000

Small agencies and manufacturing firms in Flathead County hire entry-level heads of design.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$90,000 to $105,000

Average (per year)

$98,000

Outdoor recreation brands, healthcare providers, and local tech startups are common employers for mid-level roles.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$105,000 to $120,000

Average (per year)

$112,000

In advanced manufacturing, senior designers lead design efforts, and some work as remote team leads.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$120,000+

Principal designers manage multi-state consulting contracts and oversee distributed design teams.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$40 - $55

per hour

Mid-level

$55 - $75

per hour

Senior

$75 - $95

per hour