Find a Job You Really Want In
Summary: The job market continually evolves, offering a variety of unique career paths that many may not even consider. While traditional jobs provide stability, exploring unconventional roles can lead to fulfilling careers that align with your passions. The unique jobs listed here not only offer interesting experiences but also come with competitive salaries.
Key Takeaways:
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Some of the highest-paying unique jobs include genetic counselors, dental ceramists, and ethical hackers.
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While many well-paying unique jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree, some roles, like divers, veterinary acupuncturists, and dental ceramists, can be pursued with an associate’s degree or specific certifications.
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Choosing a unique career can lead to personal fulfillment, specialization, diverse experiences, and intriguing conversations, making it a rewarding path for many.
12 Unique Jobs That Pay Well
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Average Annual Salary: $69,000
Veterinary acupuncture is an intriguing field that combines traditional practices with modern veterinary medicine. As a veterinary acupuncturist, you will provide alternative treatment options for animals that may not respond to conventional therapies, fostering their well-being and offering owners a unique solution.
In this role, you will need a solid understanding of acupuncture techniques, animal anatomy, and effective communication with pet owners to ensure a calm environment during treatments.
Education Requirements: Becoming a veterinary acupuncturist generally requires an associate’s degree, though higher degrees are beneficial. Certification from the American Board of Animal Acupuncture may also be required in some states, enhancing your career prospects.
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Average Annual Salary: $52,000
Bridge inspectors play a crucial role in public safety by ensuring that structures meet safety standards. This job involves traveling, inspecting various bridges, and communicating findings to stakeholders.
Attention to detail is essential as you will assess structural integrity, identify signs of wear, and ensure compliance with regulations while spending considerable time outdoors.
Education Requirements: Typically, bridge inspectors have degrees in engineering or civil engineering. A college degree is essential, with a majority possessing at least an associate’s degree.
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Average Annual Salary: $74,500
Genetic counselors specialize in genetics and guide individuals and families through complex genetic information and tests. They play a vital role in helping patients understand genetic conditions and potential risks.
Strong communication skills are necessary as genetic counselors frequently explain intricate concepts to clients, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout the process.
Education Requirements: Most genetic counselors hold a bachelor’s degree, with many obtaining a Master’s in counseling or genetics.
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Average Annual Salary: $36,000
Farriers specialize in the care of horses’ hooves, providing essential services such as trimming, shoeing, and maintaining hoof health. While the median salary might not be high, skilled farriers can earn significantly more.
Most work closely with a regular clientele, and the role often requires knowledge of horse anatomy and hoof care techniques.
Education Requirements: While formal education is not mandatory, many farriers complete specialized training programs and apprenticeships to hone their skills.
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Average Annual Salary: $62,000
Ghostwriters craft written works on behalf of others, often assisting authors, celebrities, and business leaders in sharing their stories. This role requires exceptional writing skills and the ability to adapt to different voices and styles.
Strong communication skills and a willingness to accept feedback are essential to meet clients’ needs and expectations.
Education Requirements: Most ghostwriters have a degree, often in fields like English or journalism, which helps refine their writing abilities.
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Average Annual Salary: $74,000
Dental ceramists create dental prosthetics, such as crowns and bridges. This specialty requires precision and an eye for detail, as work is typically conducted in a laboratory setting.
While interaction with patients is minimal, the quality of the work directly affects patient outcomes, making attention to detail crucial.
Education Requirements: Most dental ceramists have an associate’s degree, while some hold higher qualifications. A significant portion of the workforce operates with a high school diploma.
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Body Part Model
Average Annual Salary: $75,000
Body part models focus on specific features like hands or feet for advertising and promotional work. This niche area of modeling can be lucrative, particularly for those who excel in networking and marketing themselves.
While formal education is not required, an understanding of the modeling industry and effective business practices can be advantageous.
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Average Annual Salary: $104,000
As cybersecurity continues to grow in importance, ethical hackers are employed to test and strengthen security systems. This role involves simulating cyber attacks to identify vulnerabilities and improve defenses.
Strong coding skills and a keen understanding of security protocols are essential for success in this field.
Education Requirements: While not mandatory, a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related fields is common among ethical hackers, enhancing job prospects.
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Salvage Diver
Average Annual Salary: $53,500
Salvage divers recover underwater items, including vehicles and cargo. This challenging role requires knowledge of diving techniques, equipment handling, and environmental conditions.
Safety training and diving certifications are critical to ensure safe operations in this high-risk profession.
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Food Critic
Average Annual Salary: $53,500
Food critics evaluate dining experiences, providing reviews that influence public perceptions of restaurants. This role requires a discerning palate and a strong writing ability.
Education in journalism or a related field is typical, alongside a passion for culinary arts.
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Average Annual Salary: $53,000
Toy designers conceptualize and create new toys, emphasizing creativity and market trends. This role involves collaboration with engineers and marketing professionals to bring ideas to fruition.
Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in graphic design or related fields is common, with proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) being a highly valued skill.
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Hippotherapist
Average Annual Salary: $52,000
Hippotherapists use horses as a therapeutic tool to aid individuals with various challenges. This unique role combines equine care with therapy techniques to promote healing and growth.
Education requirements typically include a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, along with licensure as a therapist.
Benefits of Unique Jobs that Pay Well
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Following your passion. Pursuing an unconventional job can lead to increased job satisfaction and personal fulfillment, significantly enhancing your overall quality of life.
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Specialization. Unique jobs often involve specialized skills, positioning you as an expert in a niche area that sets you apart in the job market.
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Conversation starter. Unique job titles can serve as excellent icebreakers, sparking interest and discussions in social settings.
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Diverse experiences. Engaging in unique careers offers distinct perspectives, enriching your personal and professional interactions.
References
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American Board of Animal Acupuncture – Certification
Author
Di has been a writer for more than half her life. Most of her writing so far has been fiction, and she’s gotten short stories published in online magazines Kzine and Silver Blade, as well as a flash fiction piece in the Bookends review. Di graduated from Mary Baldwin College (now University) with a degree in Psychology and Sociology.
