Are you intrigued by unconventional career paths? The job market is brimming with roles beyond your wildest imagination. From the adventurous to the bizarre, here are 25 unique jobs that exist in real life, offering a glimpse into the less-traveled roads of the professional world.
Snake Milker
Snake milkers have to catch venomous snakes and collect their venom. The venom is used to make antivenins to treat snake bites. It’s risky to work with dangerous snakes. Snake milkers pull in an average of $2,500 monthly or $35,000 annually. The standard hourly rate for these gigs hovers around $18.
Line Stander
Imagine getting paid to stand in line for others. That’s precisely the job of line standers. They wait hours for those who can’t afford to wait for themselves. They bring stools and snacks to stay comfortable.
Smell Sniffer
Smell sniffers work for perfume companies and waste management. They use their strong sense of smell to test odors. Their job is to pinpoint even the most subtle scent differences.
Face Toucher
Face touchers use their sensitive fingertips to feel lotions and makeup on facial skin. They test how products feel when applied and absorbed. They provide valuable feedback for product development in the beauty industry.
Golf Ball Diver
Golf ball divers dive into water at golf courses to collect lost balls. The water can be cold and muddy. It’s demanding, but proficient divers can collect thousands of balls, making a profit.
Funeral Crier
In some cultures, people are hired to cry at funerals. They express grief to honor the deceased. The intention is to increase the number of funeral participants, support the dead family, and help them deal with the tragedy. Many people are still uncomfortable with this usual job, yet it is growing in popularity.
Body Part Model
These models use their photogenic body parts to advertise various products. They often earn lucrative income for their specialized work. On average, a hand model in the US makes around $30,00 a year.
Wig Master
Wig masters style wigs for TV shows, plays, and movies. They expertly cut, color, and set wigs to fit each character flawlessly.
Horse Therapist
Rehabilitation centers for children and adults with disabilities use this service. Here, the horse therapists conduct therapeutic sessions while riding horses. The unique motion of horse riding provides therapeutic benefits for physical and mental health. The aim is to improve the sociability, recreation, and degree of interaction among the patients.
Train Pusher
In bustling subway systems, there are individuals known as train pushers. They help manage passenger flow, ensuring safety and efficiency in packed subway cars. This job is primarily prevalent in Tokyo, Japan, with a population of over 14 million. Here, most residents use trains for everyday travel.
Mattress Tester
For those in the role of a mattress tester, the job involves getting paid to sleep on various beds. This occupation focuses on assessing comfort levels and firmness, making it an ideal profession for those who enjoy a good nap.
Proposal Planner
Proposal planners help create elaborate, customized marriage proposals. They handle all the tricky behind-the-scenes details. The job starts from suggesting marriage proposal ideas to assisting clients in choosing engagement rings. They earn USD 89,800 on average annually.
Chick Sexer
Chicken farmers hire chick sexers to identify the gender of baby chicks. The skill demands precision and gentleness and is critical in the poultry industry. On average, chick sexers in the US make $22,480 annually.
Flavor Maker
Flavor makers use science and their taste buds to develop artificial and natural flavors. They have to balance taste combinations perfectly. The skill demands a solid grasp of chemistry with a dash of creativity.
Fortune Writer
Fortune writers think up creative fortunes for cookies in Chinese restaurants. The fortunes give diners a fun surprise.
Personal Shopper
Personal shoppers have a keen eye for fashion and trends. They pick clothes and other items for clients based on their style and needs.
Fur Seller
Fur sellers buy and sell animal furs to fur coat and accessory makers. Most deal in ethically sourced furs these days.
Water Slide Tester
Before a water slide opens to the public, testers ensure its safety and fun factor. They provide critical feedback on the slide’s design and thrill level.
Acupuncturist
Acupuncturists stimulate pressure points on the body by sticking thin needles into the skin. This is believed to balance energy to help healing.
Dog Surfing Teacher
Dog surfing teachers train dogs and owners to balance on surfboards and ride waves together. It helps dogs gain confidence.
Pet Food Taster
Pet food companies hire people to taste dog and cat foods. They check aroma, flavor, and texture before the food hits stores.
Snuggling Professional
They provide comfort through cuddling. It’s a form of non-sexual human contact. They aim to provide a therapeutic human touch, addressing the need for physical connection. It has been helpful for people suffering from past trauma, depression, loneliness, and medical issues.
Fake Guest
Actors are hired as guests at events like weddings to create a desired ambiance. They blend seamlessly to create a lively atmosphere.
Professional Mermaid/Merman
In this role, people dress up as mermaids or mermen. They perform at events, teach swimming, and entertain. They must be good swimmers and enjoy entertaining others. This job is popular in places near the sea and in entertainment areas. It combines swimming, performing, and playing a fantasy character.