Product Design Manager Salary in South San Francisco, California
South San Francisco is a biotech and pharma hub. High housing costs and competition for design talent affect salaries. Managers find opportunities in both established firms and fast-scaling startups.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$111,000 to $132,000
Average (per year)
$122,000
Entry-level managers join biotech startups or SaaS firms along the Peninsula.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$130,000 to $155,000
Average (per year)
$142,000
Mid-level roles work on product teams for global pharma, technology, or fast‑growing logistics companies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$153,000 to $185,000
Average (per year)
$167,000
Senior managers oversee design for divisions within biotech leaders or Silicon Valley software firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$182,000+
Principal or lead managers define design strategy for multinational headquarters or city‑based innovation labs.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$62 - $90
per hour
Mid-level
$90 - $120
per hour
Senior
$120 - $175
per hour