Head of Design Salary in Benton County, Oregon
Benton County includes Oregon State University, influencing design salaries. Lower housing costs are present in the area. Academic and research employers offer stable but moderate pay.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$75,000 to $95,000
Average (per year)
$85,000
Graduates join Corvallis-based tech firms or Oregon State University labs at these starting levels.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$95,000 to $117,000
Average (per year)
$106,000
Mid-level salaries reflect the influence of local engineering employers and scientific research centers.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$117,000 to $140,000
Average (per year)
$128,500
Senior heads work at university-affiliated startups and government contractors.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$140,000+
Principal-level salaries are found at larger regional employers and national labs.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $58
per hour
Mid-level
$58 - $78
per hour
Senior
$78 - $105
per hour