ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Design Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

PBK

Design Director

Richmond, VA · On-site

The Design Director is responsible for the overall design leadership of the practice, promoting quality design efforts across all departments within the office, and being actively involved in ...

Stand Together

Associate Design Director

Arlington, VA · On-site

We're looking for a highly skilled, detail-oriented Associate Design Director to elevate the quality, consistency, and impact of our creative work across the Stand Together brand and its network of ...

FranConnect, LLC

Product Design Director

Herndon, VA · On-site

$159K - $195K/yr

About the Role As the Director of Product Design, you will be responsible for the future of franchise management, driving new initiatives, and setting a high standard for excellence across the design ...

FranConnect, LLC

Product Design Director

Herndon, VA · On-site

$159K - $195K/yr

About the Role As the Director of Product Design, you will be responsible for the future of franchise management, driving new initiatives, and setting a high standard for excellence across the design ...

FranConnect, LLC

Product Design Director

Herndon, VA · On-site

$159K - $195K/yr

About the Role As the Director of Product Design, you will be responsible for the future of franchise management, driving new initiatives, and setting a high standard for excellence across the design ...

Capital One

Director, Design, Customer Resiliency

Mclean, VA · On-site

$156K - $192K/yr

Director, Design, Customer Resiliency We're currently seeking a Product Design Director to lead the Customer Resiliency Experience Design team. This team is dedicated to enabling customers ...

AECOM

Senior Design Architect

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Collaborates with the Design Director and other team members in developing design concepts * Meet directly with the owner/client and analyze project goals * Conceives and develops architectural ...

AECOM

Senior Design Architect

Roanoke, VA · On-site

Collaborates with the Design Director and other team members in developing design concepts * Meet directly with the owner/client and analyze project goals * Conceives and develops architectural ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDesign JobsDesign Director JobsDesign Director Jobs in Virginia

Design Director information

See Virginia salary details

$36.7K

$134.6K

$240.9K

How much do design director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for design director in Virginia is $134,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,600.00 and $161,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in design?

The highest paying roles in design often include Creative Directors, UX Directors, and Design Executives, with salaries exceeding six figures, especially in large corporations or tech companies. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with design tools and strategic planning.

How much is the salary of a creative director?

The salary of a creative director typically ranges from $85,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior creative directors or those in large companies may earn higher compensation, often including bonuses and benefits.

What jobs can DT get you?

A Design Director can qualify you for senior creative leadership roles such as Creative Director, Art Director, or Brand Director. These positions typically involve overseeing design teams, developing visual strategies, and managing large-scale projects, often requiring strong skills in design software and project management. Experience in branding, user experience, and a portfolio demonstrating leadership are also important for advancement.

How does a Design Director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As a Design Director, you will regularly work with product managers, engineers, marketing teams, and other stakeholders to ensure that design solutions align with business goals and user needs. This role often involves leading design reviews, facilitating brainstorming sessions, and providing clear feedback to your team. Effective communication and the ability to advocate for design principles are essential, as you'll need to balance creative vision with practical constraints. Being proactive in building relationships across departments helps streamline workflows and fosters a collaborative environment that leads to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Design Director vs Art Director?

AspectDesign DirectorArt Director
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall design strategy, manages multiple projects, and leads design teamsFocuses on visual style, aesthetics, and execution of specific projects or campaigns
Required SkillsLeadership, strategic planning, broad design expertiseVisual creativity, technical skills, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentTypically in corporate, agency, or large studio settingsOften in advertising, media, or entertainment industries
Common UsageUsed when referring to senior design leadership rolesUsed for roles focused on visual and artistic direction

The main difference between a Design Director and an Art Director lies in scope and focus. A Design Director oversees overall design strategy and manages teams across multiple projects, while an Art Director concentrates on the visual style and execution of specific projects. Both roles require strong design skills, but the Design Director's responsibilities are broader and more strategic.

What does a Design Director do?

A Design Director oversees the creative vision and direction of design projects within an organization, leading design teams and collaborating with other departments. They are responsible for setting design standards, ensuring quality, and aligning visual strategies with business goals, often using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch. Strong leadership, communication skills, and experience in design are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Director, you need deep expertise in design principles, visual communication, and leadership, often supported by a degree in design or a related field and significant industry experience. Mastery of design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools is essential, along with experience in overseeing brand and creative strategy. Exceptional communication, creative vision, and team leadership skills distinguish top performers in this role. These capabilities are crucial for delivering cohesive design solutions, inspiring creative teams, and ensuring alignment with business objectives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Design jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Director jobs in Virginia? For Design Director jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Director jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Design Director jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Design Director jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Design Director job openings:
Design Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Director job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,598 per year, or $64.7 per hour.

Design Director

PBK

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

The Design Director is responsible for the overall design leadership of the practice, promoting quality design efforts across all departments within the office, and being actively involved in marketing and business development activities.


Your Impact:

  • Oversees and advocates for the highest quality, innovation, and elevation of design in support of our client's goals and vision.
  • Supports the company's mission for client centric design, process, and implementation.
  • Supervises a team of designers.
  • Oversees design presentations, monitors project design development, and provides design direction and support to ensure firmwide consistency.
  • Possesses thorough knowledge of architectural practice with an emphasis on design, building materials, construction methods, integration of engineering disciplines, and building codes/costs.
  • Serves as a thought leader in the design industry, participating in professional organizations, outreach, and mentorship of design staff.
  • Work collaboratively with firmwide design and thought leaders to support our design culture while bringing ideas to advance our practice.
  • Oversee the integration and advancement of firmwide technologies into our design process and outcomes.
  • Participates in developing and implementing firmwide design guidelines and standards.

Here's What You'll Need:

  • A minimum of 15 years of experience.
  • At least a Bachelor of Architecture.
  • Must be a Registered Architect (NCARB).
  • LEED AP preferred.
  • Corporate, educational and/or healthcare experience preferred.
  • Strong commitment to customer service.
  • Ability to work well under pressure, juggle and prioritize multiple projects and adjust work accordingly, often against tight deadlines.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Understanding of design tool technologies such as REVIT, Rhino, Sketch-up, Generative AI, etc.
  • Ability to interact with senior management, external client organizations, and vendors.
  • Must be quality minded and self-motivated.

Apply