Working in a cool job can mean feeling excited to go to work every day rather than dreading it. It can also lead to a better quality of life and more fulfillment.
From ice cream taste testers to YouTubers, these unconventional jobs pay surprisingly well, according to Glassdoor’s new report.
1. Food Scientist
Using chemistry, microbiology and engineering, food scientists investigate and improve how food is processed, packaged, stored and distributed. They also work to ensure that all food meets nutritional standards.
For example, they may research how heating tomatoes decreases their lycopene content and find ways to preserve it better or develop a new way to process tomato juice. Food scientists are also concerned with finding sustainable ways to produce enough healthy foods for the world’s population.
To do this, they might evaluate soil, water and biological samples from agricultural and livestock facilities to make sure that all market products are safe and nutritious. They also work to develop new production technologies to increase efficiency and reduce costs. They are also responsible for introducing new flavors and improving existing processed foods. This is a career path that any food lover could find appealing.
2. Fire Chief
Fire chiefs need to be able to handle intense situations and work with their team of firefighters. They also need to be able to make quick decisions in emergency situations and have administrative and managerial skills.
Normally, those who wish to become fire chiefs start as front-line firefighters for several years and then move up the ranks. They need to have a strong intrinsic motivation to serve the community and their department.
It is important to note that fire chiefs typically report to the top elected official and may also be accountable to a city manager or administrator. It’s a good idea for anyone interested in becoming a fire chief to try to understand the political landscape. It could be a big factor in whether or not you are successful in your application.
3. Marine Biologist
Marine Biologists study the oceans and their plant and animal life. They collect ocean samples and conduct high-level scientific research before publishing their findings in academic journals. They also aid policymakers with environmental protection and conservation initiatives.
The career often involves a lot of travel, with scientists regularly visiting different locations around the world. They can be found working in a wide range of marine environments, including coral reefs and the deep sea.
However, marine biologists also spend a lot of time in the lab working with specimens under microscopes. This can be a very rewarding career for those who are passionate about the ocean and want to help preserve its life.
4. Mystery Shopper
Mystery shopping is a popular side hustle for people looking for extra money. Essentially, businesses like restaurants, car dealerships and more hire mystery shoppers to visit their business and evaluate customer service. These shoppers pay for products or services, keep receipts and then report back to the research company with their findings.
This type of research isn’t for everyone, as it can be difficult to stay discreet and remember the details of your experience at a location. It’s also important to have good written communication skills so you can accurately write up your shop report after each assignment. Plus, you normally have to be at least 18 or older to work this gig, and some assignments are even more specific. Consider earning a mystery shopping certification from the MSPA to make yourself more marketable. The average pay varies by assignment.
5. Graphic Designer
A career in graphic design is a great choice for creative people who want to make their passion a profession. While this job does not offer as much in terms of financial stability as jobs like welding or roofing, those who choose to work as graphic designers often have more energy left after work compared to welders and roofers.
Graphic designers are responsible for creating visual designs that communicate a specific concept or message. They frequently collaborate with other professionals, such as copywriters or marketing managers to ensure the final product meets expectations and aligns with a company’s brand identity.
Graphic designers can work in a wide range of industries. This versatility makes it easy for graphic designers to find work in the areas that interest them most. Some graphic designers even freelance, which allows them to travel and gain experience in various sectors while building a strong portfolio.
6. Game Designer
The world of video games has captured the imaginations of millions of people around the globe. These immersive and captivating experiences are made possible by the skilled individuals who create them, known as game designers.
The job of a game designer can be highly rewarding for those who have the skills and personality to thrive in this creative and exciting field. The process of designing a successful video game requires the input of many different team members with various expertise and skill sets.
To get started in this career, it is important to keep abreast of gaming industry trends and audience reactions and needs by reading literature, attending conferences or workshops and participating in professional organizations. Additionally, it is recommended to start making your own games in order to learn the fundamentals and gain hands-on experience.
7. Toy Inventor
Inventors are responsible for creating new toys, keeping up with toy trends and considering safety standards and manufacturing costs. They usually have to submit their ideas and prototypes to toy manufacturers who may then purchase or license the design.
Columbus College of Art & Design alum Howard Wexler is the creator of iconic games like Connect Four and Monopoly, but his path to becoming a toy designer wasn’t conventional. He started his career as a tinkerer and took a job with a manufacturer to gain experience before working independently.
Toy marketing is another surprising career path, but it’s a great option for people who love data and psychology and want to connect with children and their parents. Find out more about the role in this podcast.
8. Ethical Hacker
Ethical hackers, or white hat hackers, work with companies and government agencies to find vulnerabilities in their systems. They use many of the same tools that cybercriminals do to breach computer security, but they only hack for good and don’t steal or distribute data.
Any organization that handles sensitive information or conducts online transactions should have an ethical hacker on staff. They can perform penetration testing, vulnerability assessments and more to help prevent breaches and protect against malicious hackers.
Most ethical hackers need at least a bachelor’s degree in IT or computer science, but some have started their careers with a high school diploma and earned a CompTIA A+ certification. They also need access to software like Kali Linux, Python and JavaScript to develop their skills. Experienced ethical hackers can make up to $150,000 a year.
9. Personal Stylist
Typically working with individuals, Personal Stylists curate wardrobes and looks that complement their physique, age, lifestyle and personality. They also help their clients discover styles that look great on them, often with a Wardrobe Reset followed by a Personal Shopping experience where they take the client from store to store searching for flattering new key pieces.
A stylist is a fashion expert with an eye for trends, colours and shapes and can advise on appropriate clothing for different situations and occasions. Having a stylist in your rolodex is one of the best self-care investments you can make.
If you want to turn your love of fashion into a rewarding career, an online personal styling course from NYIAD is a great place to start. It’s flexible enough to fit into your busy life and includes career guidance from experienced industry professionals.
10. Real Estate Agent
Questions like, Is your local COC helpful? are often asked around by curious people wanting to make a change in the system. When someone buys or sells a property, they often work with a real estate agent. These licensed professionals are responsible for listing properties, coordinating property viewings and tours, and assisting with home buyer transactions.
They can be self-employed and operate their own real estate business, or work for a brokerage. They typically split their commission with their broker.
Real estate agents spend much of their time cultivating leads, meeting and following up with prospects and clients. They are generally required to be available around the clock and on weekends to accommodate clients’ schedules. If you are comfortable with these responsibilities, this is a great career choice. You can even specialize in a particular area, such as commercial property or foreclosures. You can also become a leasing consultant and help landlords fill their rental properties. These positions offer a lucrative salary.
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