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Design
IC5 - Expert
The median salary range for Design (IC5) roles disclosed in public job postings is $180k - $229k as of Oct 2026, based on 1,433 job postings from 241 companies.
Salary Range
Low
$180,000
12%
Mid
$204,288
12%
High
$228,575
Level Comparison
| Level | Sample Size | Low | Mid | High | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC1 Entry 0-1 YOE Contributes to smaller projects under detailed guidance. | Very Large 124 Data Points | $70,000 | $78,125 | $86,250 | |
IC2 Developing 2-4 YOE Contributes to projects under general guidance. Skills are relatively developed with room for growth. | Very Large 537 Data Points | $96,114 | $112,682 | $129,250 | |
IC3 Proficient 5-7 YOE Owns specific projects and requires minimal guidance. Skills are fully developed. | Very Large 528 Data Points | $123,000 | $146,803 | $170,606 | |
IC4 Advanced 8-11 YOE Owns complex projects and drives their direction. Displays in-depth and broad skills and expertise. | Very Large 1,245 Data Points | $140,000 | $160,000 | $180,000 | |
IC5 Expert 12+ YOE A very experienced team member who leads large, high-priority projects that impact company-level goals. | Very Large 313 Data Points | $180,000 | $204,288 | $228,575 | |
IC6 Advisory An authority in their field who defines and drives initiatives with long-term strategic impact. | Very Large 272 Data Points | $171,000 | $201,575 | $232,150 | |
M3 Manager Directly supervises a team of individual contributors and is accountable for their results. | Very Large 212 Data Points | $134,500 | $162,250 | $190,000 | |
M4 Sr. Manager Experienced people manager responsible for setting objectives, observing budgets, and tracking results. | Very Large 110 Data Points | $157,000 | $195,000 | $233,000 | |
M5 Director Oversees managers or leads their own department. Responsible for vision, strategy, hiring, and results. | Very Large 368 Data Points | $180,000 | $208,250 | $236,500 | |
M6 Sr. Director Manages senior leaders in various groups. Responsible for a business function. | Large 65 Data Points | $210,000 | $247,500 | $285,000 |