Head of Design Salary in Payne County
Payne County includes a university. Heads of Design work in education, the public sector, or local tech, with salaries reflecting regional budget realities.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$79,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$87,000
Early-career leaders join university-affiliated startups or small agencies near Oklahoma State University.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$96,000 to $110,000
Average (per year)
$103,000
Mid-level salaries in Stillwater are linked to education technology and civic projects.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$111,000 to $123,000
Average (per year)
$117,000
Senior Heads of Design support research initiatives or public sector programs with dedicated creative teams.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$124,000+
Principal roles are associated with grant-funded organizations or regional public agencies.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$41 - $52
per hour
Mid-level
$53 - $62
per hour
Senior
$63 - $70
per hour