U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2007

Commercial/Industrial Designers
Develop and design manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and children's toys. Combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials to create the most functional and appealing product design.

Number in U.S.: 34,800
Mean Hourly Wage: $29.11
Mean Annual Wage: $50,540

Top Employment Industries: Architectural and engineering services, Other miscellaneous manufacturing, Specialized design services, Management of companies and enterprises, Motor vehicle parts manufacturing.

Top Paying Industries: Accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll services ($84,330), Scientific research and development services ($78,720), Motor vehicle manufacturing ($76,920), and Machinery, equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers ($76,110).

States with highest pay: Minnesota, California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Connecticut.

Source: http://www.bls.gov/