Unusual jobs that pay over $100K a year

Unusual jobs that pay over $100K a year include sommeliers, air traffic controllers, and ethical hackers. Plenty of common jobs pay over $100K per year; examples like stockbroker and lawyer are well known to most people. But there are also strange roles and professions that you might be surprised to earn yearly salaries in this pay range. Here is a list of ten unusual jobs that can pay over $100K per year:

1. Sommelier (Wine Expert)

2. Air Traffic Controller

   Average Salary: $49,141

   An air traffic controller specializes in overseeing and directing airspace traffic, all while maintaining an active line of communication with aircraft to ensure safe and efficient air travels. Generally assigned in ground control centers and towers, an air traffic controller's responsibilities revolve around utilizing technology to monitor flight paths, weather, and airport runways to guide pilots and airport personnel, coordinating with other control officers, inspecting and maintaining instruments and equipment in good condition, and alerting departments and assigned personnel should there be any emergencies.

3. Ethical Hacker (White Hat Hacker or Penetration Tester)

4. Voiceover Actor or Voiceover Artist

5. Food Stylist

   Average Salary: $36,910

6. Professional Video Gamer (ESports Player)

7. Court Stenographer

   Average Salary: $54,961

8. Hot Air Balloon Pilot

9. Art Conservator

   Average Salary: $60,547

10. Elevator Mechanic

    Average Salary: $79,797

    An elevator mechanic specializes in installing and repairing elevators, ensuring efficiency and safety. They usually work with a team of other mechanics on an on-call basis, responding to emergencies such as malfunctions, which may involve rescuing people stuck at elevators. Their responsibilities also include understanding blueprints, replacing and assembling parts, investigating user complaints or feedback, and performing regular maintenance checks to ensure the quality of systems and safety of users. Furthermore, an elevator mechanic may also be in charge of installing and repairing escalators, dumbwaiters, chairlifts, and similar machinery.