Head of Design Salary in Orange County, North Carolina
Local market conditions influence salaries for Heads of Design. Tech, biotech, and higher education drive demand, and the high cost of living pushes compensation above state averages. National firms and research centers compete for design leads.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$80,000 to $97,000
Average (per year)
$88,500
New Heads of Design start at research universities, tech startups, or large healthcare systems.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$98,000 to $126,000
Average (per year)
$112,000
Mid-level designers join established tech firms, biotech companies, or national marketing agencies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$127,000 to $155,000
Average (per year)
$141,000
Senior Heads of Design direct large teams or manage creative direction for major employers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$156,000+
Principal and Lead roles have high compensation and are responsible for design vision in technology or health organizations.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$55 - $75
per hour
Mid-level
$76 - $110
per hour
Senior
$111 - $140
per hour