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Design Manager Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Figma

Manager, Product Design

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$222K/yr

Manager, Product Design San Francisco, CA New York, NY United States Figma is growing our team of passionate creatives and builders on a mission to make design accessible to all. Figma's platform ...

Figma

Manager, Product Design

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$222K/yr

Run and improve team processes like critiques, reviews, and design sprints * Stay in the work, both managing people and helping oversee strategy and execution hands-on * Thrive in fast-paced ...

Atlassian

Senior Design Manager, Jira AI

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$149K - $196K/yr

Familiarity with the enterprise project management landscape and the teams who use these tools daily * Track record of building and retaining strong, diverse design teams * Experience working across ...

Atlassian

Senior Design Manager, Jira AI

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$149K - $196K/yr

Familiarity with the enterprise project management landscape and the teams who use these tools daily * Track record of building and retaining strong, diverse design teams * Experience working across ...

Atlassian

Senior Design Manager, Jira AI

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$149K - $196K/yr

Familiarity with the enterprise project management landscape and the teams who use these tools daily * Track record of building and retaining strong, diverse design teams * Experience working across ...

NBBJ

Design Leader - Corporate Interiors

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$133K - $155K/yr

Adept at managing the work of design teams and building long-term strategic relationships, you will provide inspiration, mentorship, and guidance through an integrated delivery process. You will also ...

Flux

Aviation Design Engineer/Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K/yr

Overview We are seeking an Aviation Design Engineer/Manager to join one of our clients in San Francisco, CA , embedded with staff at the San Francisco International Airport. This is a Full-time ...

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All JobsDesign JobsDesign Manager JobsDesign Manager Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Design Manager information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$51.4K

$140.2K

$246.7K

How much do design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for design manager in Berkeley, CA is $140,187.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,200.00 and $176,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design manager?

Design Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design process within a project or organization. They coordinate and lead design teams, ensure design objectives align with business goals, and manage timelines, budgets, and resources. Design Managers often act as a bridge between creative teams and other departments, facilitating communication and ensuring that the final product meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. Their role can span across industries such as architecture, graphic design, product design, and digital media.

What does a design manager do?

A design manager oversees a design team during a project and typically works in the construction and architecture industries. As a design manager, you may work for specialty companies that contract out to construction firms on a per-project basis. Or, you may spend your career working as an in-house design manager for a construction company or architect firm. Regardless of the location of your job as a design manager, your duties revolve around supervising the design of a building project and include adhering to legislation and codes, eliminating safety and financial risks, and advising clients during development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design manager?

To thrive as a Design Manager, you need a strong background in design principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a degree in design or a related field and several years of design experience. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools like Asana or Trello is essential. Exceptional communication, team leadership, and problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively leading creative teams, delivering high-quality design outcomes, and meeting client or organizational goals.

How does a design manager typically balance creative vision with project deadlines and client expectations?

A Design Manager is responsible for guiding their team's creative direction while ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. This often means carefully prioritizing tasks, setting clear milestones, and communicating regularly with clients and stakeholders to manage expectations. They serve as a bridge between creative teams and project managers, helping to resolve conflicts and maintain a productive workflow. By fostering open collaboration and providing constructive feedback, Design Managers help ensure both the creative vision and practical project requirements are met.

What is the difference between Design Manager vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign ManagerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, management experienceBachelor's degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, oversees projectsCreates visual content, works independently or in teams
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, agency, and studio settingsCommon in advertising, publishing, branding

The main difference between a Design Manager and a Graphic Designer lies in their responsibilities and scope. Design Managers oversee design teams and strategic project planning, while Graphic Designers focus on creating visual content. Both roles require relevant design credentials, but Design Managers also need leadership experience. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What degree do you need to be a design manager?

A design manager typically holds a bachelor's degree in design, graphic design, industrial design, or a related field. Many also pursue a master's degree or additional certifications to enhance their skills and qualifications for leadership roles in design teams.

What does a design manager earn?

A design manager's salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. They often oversee design teams, coordinate projects, and use tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software, with higher salaries generally associated with larger companies or senior roles.

What is the highest paying career in design?

In design, executive roles such as Creative Director or Design Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially in large corporations or agencies. Specialized fields like UX/UI design, product design, and design consulting can also offer high compensation, particularly with extensive experience and advanced skills in tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch.
More about Design Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Berkeley, CA?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Manager jobs in Berkeley, CA?

For Design Manager jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Manager jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Manager jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Design Manager jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Design Manager job openings:

Design Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Manager job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,187 per year, or $67.4 per hour.

Head Design Manager, Decorative Accessories - Pottery Barn

Williams-Sonoma

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$222K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Williams-Sonoma rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


About the Team
You will be a part of a collaborative team responsible for driving and managing sample development from concept through to production, working together with Design, Technical Design, Merchants, and Sourcing team members. As part of Williams-Sonoma, Inc., a leader in home lifestyle and retail, our Product Development and Design team brings customer-centered, trend-forward products to life through seasonal collaboration, innovation, and cross-brand alignment.
Role Overview
As a Head Design Manager, Decorative Accessories, you will manage and deliver new product lines and product development processes for each season for specific departments that reflect mood, market trends and business needs. You will set up and manage product development meetings and be the main communicator for agents, merchants, sourcing, and color teams. You will work with Senior Management to ensure all deadlines and key calendar dates are met. You will need the desire and ability to manage and develop associates. Not only are you part of the design process, but you will also support a Director and/or VP to manage and guide the rest of the team.
This role requires being onsite in our office Monday through Friday.
Responsibilities
Seasonal Engagement
  • Manage and create weekly Product Development meetings and Work Sessions
  • Attend business meetings; ability react to the business results and lead changes that arise from these weekly meetings
  • Assemble, lead, and present seasonal product presentations to the team and senior management
  • Generate specs and concept boards while owning and managing concept all the way through product approval in distribution center

People Management
  • Manage direct reports of various levels: technical designers, designers, and coordinators
  • Clarify objectives, assess performance, and provide regular feedback to those assisting you
  • Ability to interview candidates and make hiring recommendations that aligns with team objectives

Product Development Strategy
  • Determine priorities and workload; recommend effective processes and procedures to improve workflow and results
  • Engage with senior management on in-season problem solving, escalating concerns, and collaborate to ensure each season is prioritized
  • Have problem solving skills to identify existing product issues that may arise
  • Drives calendar to ensure all deadlines and key dates are met
  • Has strong business acumen to support each season; understand brand and financial goals, execute business and seasonal strategy
  • Gathers market data and recognize key fashion trends and analyze what competition is doing to bring new business opportunities or trends to the team

Team Collaboration
  • Utilize Product Lifecycle Management shared with cross-functional teams to review status of development process
  • Has strong cross-functional partnership with Williams Sonoma Global Operations country partners, merchants, sourcing, engineering, and color team
  • Has ability to clearly communicate the needs with Williams Sonoma Global Operations vendor partners and sourcing in order for vendors to execute design vision
  • Has clear understanding of department business needs and guides Product Development team to design accordingly

Criteria
Design Experience
  • Must provide a portfolio or website of current and past experience
  • Minimum 7 years retail product design experience
  • Degree in Design or equivalent experience (Masters Degree in design a plus)
  • Experience designing decorative accessories; keeping materials and pricing in mind
  • Experience in identifying and presenting trends and inspiration based on the given concept direction.
  • Domestic and oversees experience collaborating with factories, understanding price adjustment to reflect brand aesthetic
  • High level mass manufacturing experience in retail environment
  • Knowledge of constructions and technical design is a plus
  • Understanding and enthusiasm for the brand

Personal Leadership
  • Must have an aspirational taste-level with passion for interiors, home furnishings, color, designer aesthetic, and industry trends.
  • Ability to work independently as well as with a team in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to prioritize, multi-task and adapt to change
  • Extremely organized, efficient and detail-oriented - excellent calendar adherence and ownership
  • Excellent time management and communication skills
  • Excellent cross functional skills and partnership with merchandisers and product development team

Technical Proficiency
  • Must be technically versed in (category specific product), creating detailed specs, product reviews and feedback to vendors
  • Full proficiency in Mac operating systems with skill excellence in Adobe Creator Suite, Illustrator, Photoshop, Computer-aided design, work management system, and 3D modeling skills

Competencies
  • Understand brand aesthetic, a creative and inspirational thinker
  • Not only are you design minded, but also business minded
  • High aptitude and agility to organize communications
  • Proactive when making strategic decisions; owning the process
  • Understand calendar and deliverables, sense of urgency for deadlines
  • Confidence in leading others and team through each season and process

Our Culture & Values
We believe that taking care of our people is vital to our success and we strive to offer equitable and transparent practices for all. We prioritize connection, growth, and wellbeing.
People First
Putting People First means investing in overall well-being and opportunities to grow and advance within the organization. Depending on the position and location, here are a few highlights of what benefits may be available:
Benefits
  • A generous discount on all WSI brands
  • A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities
  • Paid vacations, holidays, and time off to volunteer
  • Health benefits, dental and vision insurance, including same-sex domestic partner benefits
  • Tax-free commuter benefits
  • A wellness program that supports your physical, financial and emotional health

Continued Learning
  • In-person and online learning opportunities through WSI University
  • Cross-brand and cross-function career opportunities
  • Resources for self-development
  • Advisor (Mentor) program
  • Career development workshops, learning programs, and speaker series

WSI will not now or in the future commence an immigration case or "sponsor" an individual for this position (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration).
This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.
Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Williams-Sonoma, Inc. will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, or other applicable state or local laws and ordinances.
The expected starting pay range for this position is $112,000 - $130,000. Applicable pay ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to competitive pay, compensation may include a variety of other components like benefits, paid time off, merit, and bonus opportunities.
#LI-JC1
About Us
Our Company
Founded in 1956, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is the premier specialty retailer of high-quality products for the kitchen and home in the United States. Our family of brands are Williams Sonoma, Williams Sonoma Home, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Pottery Barn Teen, Rejuvenation, West Elm, Mark & Graham, Outward, and GreenRow. These brands are among the best known and most respected in the industry. We offer beautifully-designed, stylish and functional products for every area of the home, including the kitchen, living room, bedroom, home office, closet, laundry room and even outdoor spaces. We've seen some big changes since our first brick-and-mortar store opened more than half of a century ago. What hasn't changed is our passion for high-quality products, functional design, outstanding customer service, and enhancing the lives of our customers and the communities where we operate. Today, we're a multi-brand, multi-channel, global enterprise supported by state-of-the-art technology and some of the most talented teams in retailing - and we're always looking for new energy and ideas.

What Williams-Sonoma employees say

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About Williams-Sonoma

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 1956, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. stands as a leading specialty retailer, renowned for offering premium kitchen and home products in the United States. Our esteemed family of brands includes Williams Sonoma, Williams Sonoma Home, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Teen, Pottery Barn Kids, Rejuvenation, Mark & Graham, West Elm, and Outward. These brands have earned widespread recognition and respect in the industry. We take pride in providing beautifully designed, stylish, and functional products for every part of the home, from the kitchen to the living room, bedroom, home office, closet, laundry room, and outdoor spaces. While witnessing significant transformations over the years since our first brick-and-mortar store opened, our dedication to exceptional quality products, functional design, excellent customer service, and enriching the lives of our customers and communities remains unwavering. Today, we are a multi-brand, multi-channel global enterprise, supported by cutting-edge technology and exceptionally talented retail teams. We constantly seek fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to drive our continued success.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

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