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Director Design Operations Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Freeman

Design Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

Summary The Design Director defines and leads the creative vision for experiential environments ... operational efficiency across the creative department. Education & Experience * Bachelor's degree ...

New

Cccis

Vice President, Product Design

Chicago, IL

$159K - $196K/yr

Evolve design from a reactive service model to a proactive, product-shaping partner; establish operating models across design, research, design systems, and design operations; drive prioritization ...

AppJaxx

Operations Director

Chicago, IL

Position Overview The Operations Director will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations ... Design, implement, and optimize internal workflows to improve efficiency and scalability.

UNAVAILABLE

Director, Product Management

Chicago, IL · On-site

$116.40 - $216.20/hr

As the Director, Product Management, you will lead product strategy and execution for Reporting ... Design, Operations, and Commercial teams. * Define product requirements and roadmaps, including ...

NinjaTrader

Sr. Designer, Design System

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

... influence without direct authority * Passion for craftsmanship, continuous improvement, and ... Experience measuring design system adoption through analytics or operational metrics * Experience ...

Epsilon

Director, Product Management

Chicago, IL

$240K - $251K/yr

Overview As the Director, Product Management, you will lead product strategy and execution for ... Design, Operations, and Commercial teams. * Define product requirements and roadmaps, including ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsDesign Operations JobsDirector Design Operations JobsDirector Design Operations Jobs in Chicago, IL

Director Design Operations information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$35K

$110.9K

$184.9K

How much do director design operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for director design operations in Chicago, IL is $110,926.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $139,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Director Design Operations vs Design Program Manager?

AspectDirector Design OperationsDesign Program Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees design workflows, team efficiency, and strategic initiativesManages specific design projects, timelines, and cross-functional coordination
CredentialsTypically requires extensive design and operations experience, often with leadership skillsRequires strong project management skills, design background is common but not mandatory
Work EnvironmentLeadership role within design teams, strategic planning focusProject-focused, collaborative environment with cross-departmental teams

The Director Design Operations focuses on overall design team efficiency and strategic initiatives, while the Design Program Manager handles specific projects and timelines. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the director has a broader leadership scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Operations jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Design Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Director Design Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Design Operations job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,926 per year, or $53.3 per hour.

Director-Drafting & Design

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Chicago, IL • Remote

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Title: Director (Design & Drafting)

Location: Remote

Hire Type: Direct

Compensation: $170,000-$200,000

Must have Skill Set: Advanced knowledge of CAD platforms, CADD certification (or equivalent experience)


Overview: We are seeking a strategic Director (Design & Drafting) to lead our functional business unit, driving operational excellence, financial performance, client growth, and team development. This leadership role is responsible for executing company strategy, establishing CAD standards and production workflows, and leading a team of Discipline Managers to ensure high-quality project delivery. The ideal candidate will possess extensive technical drafting experience paired with strong business development and financial management capabilities to expand client relationships and business opportunities.


Job Duties:

  • Leads and develops Discipline Managers while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

  • Establishes performance expectations, workflows, CAD standards, templates, and operational standards across the functional area.

  • Aligns business objectives with company strategy and ensures consistent execution.

  • Identifies and resolves operational challenges while promoting best practices, process improvements, and production efficiency.

  • Grows existing client relationships and pursues new business opportunities.

  • Supports proposal development, project scoping, estimating, and staffing strategies.

  • Maintains high levels of client satisfaction through proactive communication and quality delivery.

  • Manages revenue forecasts, backlog, budgets, profitability, and resource planning.