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Design Director Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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CAD Designer (Solidworks)

Rochester, NY · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Direct Hire Salary: Based on Experience Residency Status: US Citizen or Green Card Holder ONLY Position Overview Our client is seeking a Mechanical Designer to support the design, development ...

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Design Director information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$36.5K

$134K

$239.8K

How much do design director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for design director in Rochester, NY is $133,953.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,000.00 and $160,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 leads and oversees the creative vision and direction of design projects within an organization. They manage design teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure that all visual outputs align with the company's brand and objectives. Design Directors are responsible for setting design standards, mentoring team members, and ensuring the quality and consistency of creative work across various platforms. Their role often includes strategic planning, project management, and communication with clients or upper management.

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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Design jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Director jobs in Rochester, NY? For Design Director jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Director jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Design Director jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Design Director jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Design Director job openings:
Design Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Director job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,953 per year, or $64.4 per hour.
Team Leader, Highway Design

Team Leader, Highway Design

Popli Design Group

Rochester, NY • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description

 Popli Design Group (PDG) is seeking a Team Leader in the Highway Design Department.  PDG offers a growth perspective and develops staff through direct mentorship and learning atmosphere. PDG's collaborative department leverages experience while developing ourselves into the best people we can be. 


The desired individual will lead civil roadway and transportation projects and be responsible for overseeing and mentoring junior staff on design projects. The individual will work with multidisciplinary project teams and will apply their experience of geometric roadway design, pavements, utilities, and design standards and guidelines on projects for government agencies in New York State and NYC.


Responsibilities:

  • Manages the preparation of design calculations and details
  • Manages the preparation of contract plans and specifications
  • Manages the preparation of construction cost estimates
  • Manages the review of construction submittals
  • Performs occasional field visits to collect data and evaluate existing conditions
  • Performs occasional field visits to resolve construction issues 
  • Performs oral presentations on technical topics to the public and other engineers
  • Participates in business development activities
  • Mentors junior staff 
  • Possesses advanced knowledge of applicable engineering principles and techniques 
  • Effectively expresses thoughts and ideas both verbally and in writing in the English language
  • Proficient in the use of applicable highway design computer software
  • Performs assigned tasks accurately and efficiently
  • Is an active and supportive team member
  • Understand basic highway safety requirements
  • Able to lead multiple projects 


Required Skills:

  • Proficiency with roadway and highway modelling applications including Civil 3D and OpenRoads Designer.
  • Proficiency with or working knowledge of NYCDOT, NYSDOT, NYSTA and NYDDC design requirements and guidelines.
  • Proficiency with or working knowledge of AASHTO A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, 7th Edition and Roadside Design Guide, 4th Edition.
  • Proficiency with or working knowledge of FHWA
  • Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with project team members and clients.
  • Strong technical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail, accuracy, and completeness.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and prioritize as required.
  • Ability to progress technical concepts from inception through final design with minimum oversight and serve as a technical resource to staff and upper management.
  • Ability to lead and manage small projects and teams and prioritize multiple assignments with multiple disciplines.
  • A desire to learn and embrace technology to improve workflows and internal design process.
  • Ability and enthusiasm to work in a collaborative office setting. 
  • Desire to embrace and adhere to the PDG quality culture in all aspects of design. 
  • Understand basic safety requirements and motivation to uphold PDG safety culture. 


Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering.
  • 8+ years of progressive experience in the field.
  • NYS PE license required
  • A Valid Driver's License and acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) is required.


Work Environment:

  • Professional office environment
  • Occasional work outside of the office at project sites
  • Travels occasionally within NY State and surrounding areas 
  • Interacts primarily with other PDG personnel and all PDG Clients
  • Receives supervision, training, and mentoring from the Highway Design Department Manager 


Physical Demands:

  • This job requires prolonged periods of sitting at a computer
  • This job requires the ability to lift up to 25lbs 


About Popli Design Group (PDG)

PDG is a well-established multi-disciplinary architecture and engineering firm that has been serving clients since 1982. With four decades of experience and expertise, we have evolved from a transportation engineering firm to a comprehensive, full-service organization with seven office locations in New York State. Our extensive portfolio of successful projects has earned us a trusted reputation among our clients.


If you are seeking a dynamic and rewarding career in the architecture and engineering field, PDG will offer you exciting opportunities to work on impactful projects, collaborate with talented professionals, and contribute to our continued success. As a certified minority-owned business enterprise (MBE) in New York, we embrace diversity and foster an inclusive work environment. Together, we can shape a future of innovative design, engineering excellence, and client & employee satisfaction.


Join us at Popli Design Group and be part of our journey towards excellence!

Popli Design Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetics, disability or protected veteran status, and any other basis protected by applicable local, state, or federal law or Executive Orders.


Good faith salary range is provided, and salary package will be commensurate with experience and position location.

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