Head of Design Salary in Tompkins County
Tompkins County has a high concentration of education and research employers, with Cornell University at the center. The area offers higher pay for design leaders.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$82,000 to $99,000
Average (per year)
$91,000
Entry-level roles appear most frequently at Cornell-affiliated startups, educational tech companies, and nonprofit organizations.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$99,000 to $117,000
Average (per year)
$108,000
Mid-level Heads of Design work with research centers, software firms, and local government agencies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$117,000 to $136,000
Average (per year)
$127,000
Senior roles include leading design for growing companies with direct ties to higher education and tech incubators.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$136,000+
Principal-level salaries exist at the largest employers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$51 - $63
per hour
Mid-level
$63 - $78
per hour
Senior
$78 - $92
per hour