Head of Design Salary in Oregon, United States
Portland offers a median salary of $104,000 for Head of Design. Design leaders receive bonuses and equity from companies ranging from tech startups to outdoor apparel brands.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$77,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$85,000
Graduates in Corvallis often join Oregon State University or local tech startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $115,000
Average (per year)
$104,000
The semiconductor and software sectors are growing in the region.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$115,000 to $135,000
Average (per year)
$124,500
Senior roles often involve leading teams and collaborating with local organizations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$135,000+
Principal designers work in larger tech firms and university-affiliated innovation labs.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$39 - $56
per hour
Mid-level
$56 - $75
per hour
Senior
$75 - $100
per hour
At $104,000, Portland's median sits roughly $12,000 above the national average for similar positions. Nationally, heads of design earn near $92,000.