14 weird jobs that you probably never thought existed!
Feeling stuck in a rut? Fancy a career change? Well why not have a browse through this list and see if any of these jobs appeal. Some may need specific qualifications, whilst others just require an 'open-minded' attitude. Even better, they all pay really well!
So if you want to give up your 9-5 and spice up your résumé, here are 14 jobs that you probably never knew existed!
1. Professional hugger
If you're on your own and miss the comfort of a good hug, then book a professional hugger! Or, if you have hugs to spare, then this could be the job for you. It goes no further than hugs and you could earn between $60 and $80 dollars a session. Don't believe us? Have a browse online - you'll be surprised at the number of companies who offer this service!
2. Golf course diver
Ever wondered what happens to golf balls that end up in a pond? They can't be left in their watery grave, but you'll be surprised to know that golf courses don't rely on sophisticated golf ball-collecting machines! No, they rely on divers, so if you're handy with a scuba tank and flippers, why not apply? Just bear in mind that you might stumble across an alligator or snake!
3. Pet food taster
Pet food needs to be tasty, but we can't expect our furry friends to give us 'feedback'. So companies employ professional pet food tasters to make sure that our four-legged friends enjoy their meals!
4. Bed tester
How do you like the idea of being paid to stay in bed? You'll be expected to check if the mattress is sturdy, comfortable, good for your back and that the sides are strong enough to sit on. Mattress manufacturers and hotel chains routinely employ testers willing to lounge around on their beds...
5. Paper towel sniffers
Paper towel manufacturing uses a lot of chemicals and it's important that the finished product doesn't reek of unpleasant odors. So companies employ paper towel sniffers who make sure that every nose blow is a delight and not a pungent nightmare! Sound ideal? Minimal training needed, but a really good sense of smell is required!
6. Face feeler
Skincare companies employ 'feelers' who test products by feeling faces and noting if there's any improvement in skin tone, texture etc. This job actually requires a very sensitive touch and you'll need to bear in mind the responsibility that comes with accepting or rejecting a product based on what you've 'felt'.
7. Professional line standers
If you loathe standing in line then why not hire a person to queue up for you? Or, if standing in the rain doesn't bother you, then why not offer your services? Bear in mind that if it's for a must-have product, you may be paid to queue overnight in front of a store whilst your 'employer' enjoys a good night's sleep!
8. Water slide tester
Water slides can be dangerous so in the interest of public safety need to be tested. The amount of water used, how comfy the slide is, how long you need to wait before sending the next person down, is it fun enough to pull in the crowds, how long does it take... It sounds fun, but it's also a serious endeavor!
9. Snake milker
Scared of snakes? Then look away now! If not, then why not become a professional snake venom milker - research and pharmaceutical companies are always on the lookout for people to do this hair-raising job. Plus if the venom's being used to make anti-venoms, then you'll also be saving lives in the process!
10. Body part models
Got smooth hands or elegant feet? A pert butt or Bambi eyes? Whatever the body part, if yours is perfect then sign up with a modelling agency, as advertisers are always on the lookout for body parts that match their latest marketing campaign!
11. Earthworm pickers
What would fishermen do if there weren't people to collect bait?
12. Disgusting food tester!
Yes it pays well, but you'll be expected to chomp on all sorts of things. If you've ever seen a reality TV show where the contestants are challenged to eat bugs, unsavory body parts etc. then you'll know what we're talking about. So if you have a sensitive stomach or don't fancy munching on live worms then you may want to give this one a miss!
13. Nude model
Don't mind stripping off and striking a pose for hours on end? Life drawings need nude models, but you must be really comfortable with your body and understand that it's the artist, not you, who decides what pose is needed. Oh, and make sure they put some heating on, as it can be a pretty chilly job!
14. Armpit sniffer
Probably the most unpleasant job on this list, but yes, people are paid to get up close to armpits and have a good sniff! Deodorant and anti-perpsirant manufacturers need to make sure their products do their job, so every time they bring out a new odor-busting formula, they need people to apply it, work up a sweat and then let a sniffer verify its effect. However, sniffers have to be really committed as they can be asked to sniff up to 60 armpits an hour!
By Straker Julia
Writer
Passionate about writing, I write articles on the subjects that I love. Creativity and Animals themes are my favorites!
