Position
Salary

How much does a Department Manager make?

The average salary for a Department Manager is $56,111 per year in the US.

Department Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of their departments. They plan work, set goals, and make sure everything runs smoothly. This important job comes with a decent salary. The average yearly salary for a Department Manager is about $56,111. This number can change based on experience, company size, and location.


The salary range for Department Managers spans widely. The lowest 10% earn less than $31,900, while the highest 10% earn more than $135,000. Here is a look at the salary distribution for Department Managers:

  • 10% earn less than $31,900
  • 20% earn less than $41,275
  • 35% earn less than $50,648
  • 50% earn less than $60,020
  • 75% earn less than $88,138
  • 90% earn less than $106,883
  • 95% earn less than $116,255

With the right skills and experience, a Department Manager can find a rewarding job with a good salary.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Department Manager?

Department Managers can find strong opportunities in several cities, with Los Angeles leading the pack. The city offers an average salary of $97,934, making it a prime choice for those seeking higher earnings. Other top cities include Richmond, Santa Rosa, and Augusta, each offering competitive salaries for department management roles. Prospective managers should consider these locations for potential career growth and higher compensation. Richmond, VA, offers an average salary of $87,880, while Santa Rosa, CA, and Augusta, GA, each provide around $85,132 and $81,844, respectively. These cities present attractive job markets with excellent prospects for professionals in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Department Manager jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $97,934 and Indianapolis, IN with the lowest at $75,626.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $97,934
    Leading a department in Los Angeles offers the chance to work with a diverse range of businesses. Companies like tech giants and entertainment firms provide dynamic and innovative environments. The city's bustling economy allows for diverse career growth opportunities.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $87,880
    Managing a department in Richmond, VA, gives access to a rich mix of industries. From healthcare to government services, the city’s variety supports a robust business environment. Working in Richmond means collaborating with dedicated professionals and growing in a supportive community.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Richmond, VA


  3. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $85,132
    In Santa Rosa, managing a department allows for a balanced work-life approach. The city’s focus on technology and wine production provides a unique industry landscape. Leaders here enjoy a close-knit community that values professional development and innovation.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  4. Augusta, GA
    Average Salary: $81,844
    Augusta offers a thriving environment for department managers. The city’s blend of education, healthcare, and government sectors creates a stable and rewarding career path. Managers can leverage Augusta’s supportive community and strategic location for professional growth.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Augusta, GA


  5. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $79,731
    Austin’s vibrant culture and booming tech industry make it an exciting place for department managers. The city’s innovative spirit and diverse job market provide ample opportunities for leadership and professional advancement. Working in Austin means being part of a dynamic and growing community.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Austin, TX


  6. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $79,392
    Phoenix offers a fast-paced environment for department managers. The city's diverse industries, from finance to healthcare, provide various opportunities for leadership. Managers here benefit from a growing economy and a vibrant business community that supports career development.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  7. El Paso, TX
    Average Salary: $77,977
    In El Paso, managing a department brings the chance to lead in a border city with a unique cultural blend. The city’s strong focus on manufacturing and healthcare provides a stable and growing industry landscape. Managers here can expect a rewarding career with a strong community spirit.
    Find Department Manager jobs in El Paso, TX


  8. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $77,911
    Managing a department in San Francisco means working in a tech-driven hub. The city’s innovative companies and vibrant economy offer exciting opportunities for leadership. Professionals here enjoy a competitive environment with a focus on creativity and growth.
    Find Department Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  9. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $75,823
    Denver offers a dynamic environment for department managers. The city’s diverse industries, from aerospace to healthcare, provide numerous opportunities for career growth. Managers here can leverage Denver’s growing economy and outdoor lifestyle for a balanced professional experience.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Denver, CO


  10. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $75,626
    Indianapolis provides a balanced setting for department managers. The city’s strong presence in finance, healthcare, and manufacturing offers stable and diverse career options. Managers here benefit from a growing economy and a community that values professional development.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Indianapolis, IN

What are the best companies a Department Manager can work for?

Companies like Google, XPO, and AAA Cooper Transportation offer some of the highest salaries for Department Manager roles. Google stands out with an average salary of $216,000. XPO follows closely with an average salary of $111,334, while AAA Cooper Transportation provides about $94,481 annually. These companies are leaders in their industries, providing competitive compensation to attract top talent. Other notable companies include CrossCountry Freight Solutions and AFC Industries, offering around $84,091 and $73,323 respectively. Bob's Discount Furniture, Signet Jewelers, and Valvoline Express Care provide salaries ranging from $70,203 to $62,671. Job seekers aiming for these roles can expect solid compensation and opportunities for career advancement in these companies.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Department Manager jobs, highlighting Google with the highest at $216,000 and Valvoline Instant Oil Change with the lowest at $55,506.
  1. Google
    Average Salary: $216,000
    Google offers rewarding Department Manager jobs. Google operates across the globe with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. Managers here lead with innovation and have a big impact.


  2. XPO
    Average Salary: $111,334
    XPO provides top-tier Department Manager positions. The company runs in over 2,300 locations in North America. Managers at XPO focus on logistics and transportation, leading teams to success.


  3. AAA Cooper Transportation
    Average Salary: $94,481
    AAA Cooper Transportation has great Department Manager roles. The company works in over 100 locations nationwide. Managers here lead with dedication and drive the company forward.


  4. CACI International
    Average Salary: $92,179
    CACI International offers competitive Department Manager salaries. The company serves government clients across the U.S. Managers here manage crucial projects and teams effectively.


  5. CrossCountry Freight Solutions
    Average Salary: $84,091
    CrossCountry Freight Solutions provides strong Department Manager opportunities. The company operates in over 100 locations. Managers here focus on logistics and transportation excellence.


  6. AFC Industries
    Average Salary: $73,323
    AFC Industries has rewarding Department Manager roles. The company operates in over 100 locations. Managers here lead with precision and dedication, ensuring smooth operations.


  7. Bob's Discount Furniture
    Average Salary: $70,203
    Bob's Discount Furniture offers competitive Department Manager positions. The company operates in multiple locations across the U.S. Managers here focus on customer satisfaction and team leadership.


  8. Signet Jewelers
    Average Salary: $62,671
    Signet Jewelers provides good Department Manager jobs. The company operates in multiple locations. Managers here focus on jewelry sales and customer service, leading teams to success.


  9. Valvoline Express Care
    Average Salary: $56,423
    Valvoline Express Care offers Department Manager roles with solid compensation. The company operates in multiple locations. Managers here focus on automotive services and team leadership.


  10. Valvoline Instant Oil Change
    Average Salary: $55,506
    Valvoline Instant Oil Change provides Department Manager opportunities. The company operates in multiple locations. Managers here focus on automotive services and team leadership.

How to earn more as a Department Manager?

Becoming a Department Manager offers great opportunities for career growth and increased earnings. A Department Manager not only oversees day-to-day operations but also plays a crucial role in achieving organizational goals. To earn more in this role, certain strategies can help you advance your career and salary. Understanding these can make a significant difference in your professional journey.

First, gaining experience in leadership positions within your department can boost your earning potential. Taking on more responsibilities and demonstrating effective management skills can position you as a valuable asset to your company. Another important factor is education. Advanced degrees or specialized certifications in management can enhance your qualifications and make you a stronger candidate for higher-paying roles. Networking within your industry also plays a key role. Building strong relationships with peers and professionals can open doors to better opportunities and salary negotiations. Staying updated with industry trends and technologies helps you remain competitive and valuable. Lastly, consistently achieving and exceeding department goals can lead to performance-based bonuses and promotions.

Here are five key factors to consider for increasing your earnings as a Department Manager:

  1. Leadership Experience: Lead by example and take on roles that challenge you to manage teams and projects effectively.
  2. Advanced Education: Pursue degrees or certifications in management to enhance your skills and qualifications.
  3. Networking: Build a professional network to learn about new opportunities and industry trends.
  4. Industry Knowledge: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in your field to stay competitive.
  5. Performance: Aim to meet and exceed your department's goals to secure bonuses and promotions.

Currently 540 Department Manager job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Department Manager in the US?

Learn what a Department Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Department Manager today.
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Department Manager
540 Job Openings