Product Lead Salary in Orange County, North Carolina

Orange County includes Chapel Hill and Carrboro. The area is home to UNC, biotech firms, and a technology sector. Product leads in the region work for research-driven employers and face higher living costs.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$87,000 to $108,000

Average (per year)

$96,000

Entry-level professionals start at established tech companies or startup incubators.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$109,000 to $129,000

Average (per year)

$119,000

Software firms and research institutions employ mid-level product leads.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$130,000 to $146,000

Average (per year)

$138,000

Senior professionals oversee large-scale product development at universities and similar institutions.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$147,000+

Principal leads manage product portfolios for research-focused employers.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$44 - $57

per hour

Mid-level

$58 - $70

per hour

Senior

$71 - $83

per hour