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Salary

How much does a Design Director make?

The average salary for a Design Director is $177,434 per year in the US.

If you work as a Design Director, your job role typically involves overseeing all design-related activities within a company. This includes developing design strategies, managing teams, and collaborating with other departments. Design Directors earn a good salary, with the average yearly salary sitting at $177,434. This figure reflects a solid and rewarding career path for those who excel in this role.

The salary for Design Directors can vary based on several factors. These include the size of the company, the industry, and the geographic location. For example, those working in tech companies or large metropolitan areas might earn more. This variability ensures that Design Directors can find positions that match their experience and skill level, making it an attractive career choice for many professionals.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Design Director?

Design Directors have exciting opportunities in several major cities. Atlanta, San Francisco, and Los Angeles lead the way with the highest average salaries. These cities offer great jobs for people looking to advance in their careers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Design Director jobs, highlighting Atlanta, GA with the highest at $198,051 and Chicago, IL with the lowest at $147,461.
  1. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $198,051
    In Atlanta, a Design Director plays a key role in guiding innovative projects for a variety of tech firms and creative agencies. The city’s growing tech scene offers numerous opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects and collaborate with a diverse team. Leading firms like Cox Enterprises and Delta Air Lines seek creative leaders to shape their visual identity and user experience.
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  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $196,551
    San Francisco offers a vibrant environment for Design Directors, where creativity meets technology. Companies like Google and Salesforce value design leaders who can blend aesthetics with functionality. The city’s dynamic startup culture provides an ideal setting for professionals who enjoy fast-paced, innovative work.
    Find Design Director jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $184,070
    Los Angeles is a hotspot for Design Directors in the entertainment and media industries. With studios like Disney and Warner Bros., there is a high demand for creative leaders who can craft compelling visual narratives. The city's diverse cultural scene adds richness to the design projects undertaken by prominent firms.
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  4. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $167,679
    Minneapolis is known for its blend of arts and technology, making it a great place for Design Directors. Companies like Target and General Mills offer opportunities to lead impactful design projects. The city’s strong community and quality of life make it an attractive location for professionals seeking a balanced work environment.
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  5. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $162,195
    Austin’s growing tech industry provides exciting opportunities for Design Directors. With companies like Dell and Apple having a strong presence, there is a demand for creative leaders who can drive user-focused design. The city’s vibrant music and cultural scene offers a dynamic backdrop for innovative design work.
    Find Design Director jobs in Austin, TX


  6. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $147,461
    Chicago’s diverse business landscape offers a range of opportunities for Design Directors. Companies like Allstate and United Airlines seek creative leaders to enhance their brand presence. The city’s rich history and cultural diversity provide a unique backdrop for engaging and innovative design projects.
    Find Design Director jobs in Chicago, IL

What are the best companies a Design Director can work for?

Design Directors can expect competitive salaries at top companies like HNTB Corporation, PayPal, and Accenture. HNTB Corporation stands out with an average salary of about $262,923, offering the highest pay among these firms. PayPal and Accenture also provide attractive salaries, around $214,280 and $212,550 respectively, making these companies excellent choices for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Design Director jobs, highlighting HNTB Corporation with the highest at $262,923 and Accenture with the lowest at $212,550.
  1. HNTB Corporation
    Average Salary: $262,923
    HNTB Corporation offers rewarding roles for Design Directors. They lead innovative design projects across the United States. HNTB operates in over 100 locations nationwide, providing excellent career growth opportunities.


  2. PayPal
    Average Salary: $214,280
    At PayPal, Design Directors shape the user experience for millions of users. They work in locations like San Jose, San Francisco, and Austin, driving digital design excellence.


  3. Accenture
    Average Salary: $212,550
    Accenture offers Design Director positions that focus on digital transformation. They operate globally, with key hubs in New York, London, and Singapore, allowing for diverse project experiences.

How to earn more as a Design Director?

Becoming a Design Director involves more than just creative talent. It also means understanding how to increase your earnings. By focusing on a few key factors, job seekers can improve their chances of earning more in this role. Design Directors can leverage their skills and experiences to command higher salaries and gain more job satisfaction.

One way to increase earning potential is to gain advanced certifications. These certifications show a commitment to the field and a deeper understanding of the latest design trends. Networking within the industry opens up more job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional groups, and connecting with peers can lead to higher-paying positions. Another important factor is taking on leadership roles within projects. Demonstrating the ability to manage teams and deliver successful projects can lead to promotions and higher salaries. Additionally, specializing in a niche within design can make a Design Director more valuable. Whether it’s UX design, branding, or product design, expertise in a specific area can command higher pay.

Staying updated with the latest design tools and software is also crucial. Employers often seek candidates who are proficient with the newest technologies. Finally, a strong portfolio showcasing innovative and successful projects can help a Design Director stand out. It demonstrates the ability to deliver high-quality work and attract top-tier clients or employers.

These factors can help Design Directors earn more and advance in their careers.

  1. Get advanced certifications
  2. Network within the industry
  3. Take on leadership roles
  4. Specialize in a design niche
  5. Stay updated with the latest tools and software

Currently 39 Design Director job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Design Director in the US?

Learn what a Design Director does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Design Director today.
Position
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Design Director
39 Job Openings