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Software Engineering

M5 - Director

The median salary range for Software Engineering (M5) roles disclosed in public job postings is $218k - $291k as of Aug 2026, based on 1,939 job postings from 385 companies.

Salary Range

Low

$218,000

14%

Mid

$254,738

14%

High

$291,475

Level Comparison

LevelSample SizeLowMidHigh
IC1

Entry

0-1 YOE

Contributes to smaller projects under detailed guidance.

Very Large

454 Data Points

$100,000

$117,500

$135,000

IC2

Developing

2-4 YOE

Contributes to projects under general guidance. Skills are relatively developed with room for growth.

Very Large

1,874 Data Points

$125,000

$143,381

$161,763

IC3

Proficient

5-7 YOE

Owns specific projects and requires minimal guidance. Skills are fully developed.

Very Large

1,802 Data Points

$140,000

$162,500

$185,000

IC4

Advanced

8-11 YOE

Owns complex projects and drives their direction. Displays in-depth and broad skills and expertise.

Very Large

3,798 Data Points

$150,000

$172,735

$195,470

IC5

Expert

12+ YOE

A very experienced team member who leads large, high-priority projects that impact company-level goals.

Very Large

1,399 Data Points

$180,000

$205,000

$230,000

IC6

Advisory

An authority in their field who defines and drives initiatives with long-term strategic impact.

Very Large

1,149 Data Points

$185,000

$214,250

$243,500

M3

Manager

Directly supervises a team of individual contributors and is accountable for their results.

Very Large

888 Data Points

$181,500

$207,500

$233,500

M4

Sr. Manager

Experienced people manager responsible for setting objectives, observing budgets, and tracking results.

Very Large

518 Data Points

$195,200

$227,600

$260,000

M5

Director

Oversees managers or leads their own department. Responsible for vision, strategy, hiring, and results.

Very Large

344 Data Points

$218,000

$254,738

$291,475

M6

Sr. Director

Manages senior leaders in various groups. Responsible for a business function.

Very Large

104 Data Points

$242,000

$286,000

$330,000