10 of the Weirdest Jobs People Actually Have

There are thousands of ways to make a living. Some choose more traditional career paths like education or finance, while others opt for more eclectic careers. From sleeping on the job to evaluating peculiar odors, here are 10 of the weirdest jobs that people actually have.

1. Snake Milker

For those with a fascination for reptiles, snake milking is a real profession. As you know, snakes are not mammals and do not produce milk, so what gives? Snake milkers extract venom to create antivenom for snakebite victims. It's a dangerous and life-saving job requiring precision and expertise.

2. Professional Sleeper

Imagine getting paid to sleep! Professional sleepers are employed by researchers and mattress companies to test the comfort and quality of beds. They spend their work hours catching Zs and providing feedback on sleep experiences.

Woman sleeping in bed. Some people are lucky enough to get paid to sleep and test the comfort and quality of mattresses.

3. Full-Time Movie Viewer

Believe it or not, some lucky individuals are hired to binge-watch content on platforms like Netflix. Their role is to categorize shows and movies, helping improve recommendation algorithms. It's a dream job for any avid TV and film enthusiast.

4. Dry Paint Watcher

This seemingly monotonous job involves observing paint dry. Paint companies employ individuals to scrutinize the drying process for color accuracy, consistency, and overall quality. Patience is undoubtedly a virtue in this profession, which often requires painting swatches and watching them dry.

5. Professional Mermaids

While the mythical creatures may not exist, some people make a living by embodying the essence of mermaids. These professionals often perform at parties and events, creating captivating experiences to keep their audiences engaged and entertained.

Professional mermaid at the beach. These entertainers are paid to perform at events in full costume.

6. Train Pusher

In Japan, where commuter trains can be incredibly crowded, there are people known as "oshiya" or pushers. Their job is to ensure that as many passengers as possible fit into the train during rush hours. It's a physically demanding role requiring a unique set of skills and a firm push.

7. Professional Mourner

In various cultures, professional mourners are hired to attend funerals and express grief. Their role is to enhance the atmosphere of mourning and provide a sense of community support during the grieving process.

8. Dog Food Taster

Ever wondered who ensures your canine companion's food is up to par? Dog food tasters work to ensure the quality, flavor, and nutritional value of the food, which occasionally involves, you guessed it, tasting the dog food. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea, these individuals play an important role in the pet food industry.

9. Odor Judge

Have you ever wondered who makes sure your deodorant works for 12+ hours? Some companies employ odor judges to assess the scent and longevity of various products, from perfumes and deodorants to household items. These professionals have a heightened sense of smell and can distinguish between subtle fragrances and odors.

10. Underwater Pizza Delivery Man

Imagine a scuba diving delivery man navigating the depths to provide an essential service – pizza. Armed with a watertight case, this aquatic courier ensures guests at an underwater hotel in Florida can savor the delight of a freshly delivered pizza beneath the sea.

When it comes to employment opportunities, these unconventional jobs add a splash of eccentricity. While they might seem peculiar, each profession serves a unique purpose in its respective industry that ultimately results in more positive experiences for people, animals, and our economy.

Reference: The 40 Weirdest Jobs You Wouldn’t Believe Are Real