Find a Job You Really Want In
Summary. The highest-paying odd jobs include color expert, astronomer, and costume attendant. “Odd” jobs are unconventional roles that play significant parts in various industries, offering unique opportunities and competitive salaries.
As the job market continues to evolve, navigating the hiring process can be challenging. However, exploring unconventional career paths can lead to satisfying and lucrative opportunities. Whether you have extensive experience or are just starting out, these unique jobs can be a great option. Consider these well-paying odd jobs as you search for your next career move.
Key Takeaways:
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Odd jobs are unconventional professions that hold considerable value in today’s economy.
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There are numerous types of odd jobs that pay exceptionally well, such as bereavement coordinator and voiceover artist.
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Finding an odd job may require a bit more effort, but this list can inspire you to consider these unconventional careers.
27 Odd Jobs That Pay Well
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Color expert
Average Yearly Salary: $64,237Color experts leverage psychology and color theory to advise clients on optimal color choices in various contexts, from home design to branding. If you possess creativity, a keen eye for design, and an analytical mindset, this role could be a perfect fit. While formal education in design can be beneficial, it is not mandatory, and entry-level positions typically start at around $20 per hour.
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Podiatrist
Average Yearly Salary: $91,000For those interested in healthcare without the lengthy training of traditional medical school, becoming a podiatrist offers a focused career path. Podiatrists specialize in treating foot and ankle conditions, earning an average salary of over $111,000.
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Astronomer
Average Yearly Salary: N/AAstronomers study celestial bodies by employing various scientific methods, including theoretical modeling and data analysis. This challenging yet rewarding field requires strong mathematical skills and typically offers salaries around $100,000 for government positions.
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Flavorist
Average Yearly Salary: N/AFlavorists are responsible for creating unique flavors in food and beverages, often requiring a background in chemistry and a deep understanding of flavor profiles. The job can be rewarding, with hourly earnings ranging from $17 to $35.
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Costume attendant
Average Yearly Salary: $54,168Costume attendants support performers during live shows, facilitating quick costume changes. Ideal for those with a passion for theater, this role typically requires minimal training and pays about $20 per hour.
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Bereavement coordinator
Average Yearly Salary: $55,606Bereavement coordinators support families dealing with loss, assisting with arrangements and emotional support. This role typically requires counseling training, with average salaries around $47,000.
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Private chef
Average Yearly Salary: $54,635For culinary enthusiasts, working as a private chef allows for creativity and flexibility. While starting salaries may be lower, experienced chefs can earn upwards of $140,000 annually, depending on their clientele.
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Hippotherapist
Average Yearly Salary: N/AHippotherapists utilize horses as a therapeutic tool for patients, requiring knowledge of both equine care and therapeutic practices. This fulfilling role typically offers around $30 per hour.
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Art therapist
Average Yearly Salary: $36,000Art therapists facilitate healing through creative expression, requiring training in art and psychology. Salaries can vary widely from $20 to $50 per hour based on experience and location.
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Embalmer
Average Yearly Salary: $38,073Despite its somber reputation, becoming an embalmer can be a fulfilling career path with steady demand. With minimal training, embalmers can expect to earn a median salary of about $47,000.
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Voiceover artist
Average Yearly Salary: $61,426Voiceover artists lend their voices to various media projects, requiring good vocal skills and flexibility. This profession is well-suited to remote work, with average earnings around $60 per hour.
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Braille proofreader
Average Yearly Salary: N/ABraille proofreaders ensure accuracy in braille publications, playing a crucial role in accessible communication for the visually impaired. This position typically pays around $40,000 annually.
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Toymaker
Average Yearly Salary: $46,000Toymakers design and create toys, combining creativity with engineering skills. The average salary in this field can reach up to $96,000, depending on experience and the complexity of the toys.
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Nightclub attendant
Average Yearly Salary: $24,243Working as a nightclub attendant can be exciting and lucrative, especially in high-end establishments where top performers can earn significant tips, sometimes totaling $500,000 annually.
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Pearl diver
Average Yearly Salary: N/APearl divers often work on oyster farms, but those who venture into wild diving can earn significantly more. This role requires scuba certification and can yield earnings exceeding $1,000 in a good season.
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Profile ghostwriter
Average Yearly Salary: N/AProfile ghostwriters assist individuals in crafting engaging personal narratives for various platforms, earning around $20 per hour. This freelance role offers flexibility and allows you to work from anywhere.
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Cruise ship captain
Average Yearly Salary: $34,450Cruise ship captains manage vessel operations and ensure passenger safety while enjoying a unique work schedule of ten weeks on and off. Salaries can reach $150,000 annually.
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Vet acupuncturist
Average Yearly Salary: N/AVeterinary acupuncturists offer holistic treatment options for animals, requiring specific certification and training. This rewarding field offers around $35 per hour.
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Casino manager
Average Yearly Salary: $58,850Casino managers oversee operations, staff, and customer interactions on the gaming floor. While formal education isn’t required, relevant experience is essential, with average salaries around $53,000 for bingo managers.
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Crystallographer
Average Yearly Salary: N/ACrystallographers study crystal structures, utilizing advanced technological methods. This specialized field often requires graduate-level education and can lead to six-figure salaries, particularly as demand for crystal applications grows.
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Clinical ethicist
Average Yearly Salary: N/AClinical ethicists guide patients and families through complex medical decisions, requiring a background in medical ethics. They typically earn around $70,000 annually.
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Bridge tender
Average Yearly Salary: $26,913Bridge tenders manage traffic flow at bridges, ensuring safe passage for boats. This role is vital near major ports, with salaries averaging around $50,000.
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Computer hacker
Average Yearly Salary: $82,000Professional hackers, or ethical hackers, play a crucial role in cybersecurity, protecting organizations from breaches. Salaries can range from $80,000 to $115,000, depending on experience.
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Marijuana extractor
Average Yearly Salary: N/AWith the legalization of marijuana in many states, professional extractors are in demand to create various marijuana products. This role offers salaries between $50,000 and $85,000.
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Billboard installer
Average Yearly Salary: $34,000Billboard installers are responsible for putting up advertisements, earning around $20 per hour without the need for specialized training.
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Periodontist
Average Yearly Salary: $188,000Periodontists focus on dental implants and gum health, with salaries reaching up to $220,000 based on experience and patient satisfaction.
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Airplane painter
Average Yearly Salary: $39,343Airplane painters apply artistic skills to paint aircraft, often earning around $20 per hour for their creative contributions.
Odd Jobs FAQ
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Can you make a living with odd jobs?
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How do I find an odd job?
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What is the most odd job?
Yes, odd jobs can provide a sustainable income. Their unconventional nature does not diminish their importance in the economy, and many odd jobs offer competitive wages.
Finding an odd job may require targeted research. These roles often don’t appear in traditional job postings, so networking and online research are key strategies for discovery.
The definition of the “most odd job” varies. What one person finds unusual, another may see as commonplace. This list illustrates the diversity of odd jobs that can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding!
Final Thoughts
Exploring full-time, part-time, or side jobs outside your usual experience can enhance your resume and potentially lead you to a new passion. These odd jobs can serve as a valuable starting point in your job search.
It’s essential to recognize that all jobs, odd or conventional, are valid forms of earning a living. Many unconventional roles provide opportunities that may not be immediately apparent during a job search.
As a job seeker, staying informed about diverse options is vital, especially as you navigate your career journey. A fulfilling job doesn’t always have to be a traditional one.
References
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Water Transportation Worker Occupational Outlook
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Voice Actor
Author
Amanda is a writer with experience in various industries, including travel, real estate, and career advice. After taking on internships and entry-level jobs, she is familiar with the job search process and landing that crucial first job. Included in her experience is work at an employer/intern matching startup where she marketed an intern database to employers and supported college interns looking for work experience.
