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These offbeat jobs might raise an eyebrow, but they demonstrate that the job market is full of unexpected opportunities.

From testing tissues to delivering human comfort, these strange careers show that unorthodox career choices can be fulfilling and well-compensated. (Representative Image)
When people hear the word “hustle,” they often picture endless workdays, sleepless nights and grinding non-stop just to make ends meet. Yet, for some, hustle looks very different. There are quirky professions that sound too easy to be true, and many dismiss them as “jobless.” Surprisingly, these roles pay far better than a traditional office job and continue to grow in demand.
From testing tissues to delivering human comfort, these strange careers show that unorthodox career choices can be fulfilling and well-compensated. Here are five weird jobs that actually exist and pay unexpectedly high salaries.
Paper Towel Sniffer
One of the most unusual jobs in consumer products is the paper towel sniffer. They smell napkins, tissues and paper towels to verify whether or not their scent is up to quality standards. Their function maintains consistency in scented products, and companies rely on them to create pleasant smells. It may seem easy, but it needs a good sense of smell and attention to detail. The compensation is good, considering that the job is specialised and companies rely on them to maintain quality control.
Professional Queue Stander
No one likes to stand in long lines, so professional line standers fill in the gap. They are hired to wait in line for someone else, usually to obtain limited-release items such as concert tickets, new technology, or access to invite-only events. It’s easier said than done, though – it takes patience and dependability. Some line waiters develop a solid reputation and regular customers, turning seemingly idle time into a lucrative income stream.
Professional Cuddler
With the fast pace of life in the present, human touch has turned into a therapy. Professional cuddlers provide platonic physical contact that aids in the reduction of anxiety, stress and loneliness. The job comes with strict safety protocols, demanding empathy, trust establishment and excellent communication skills. Most cuddle therapists receive a hefty fee for their services, making it a profitable and fulfilling career.
Pet Food Tester
Pet food testers don’t merely taste kibble; their primary function is to evaluate the quality, texture and acceptability of food before sale. Businesses depend on these testers to ensure that goods are safe and nutritious for consumption by animals while also being palatable. For animal enthusiasts, this is a strange but rewarding method of working in the pet care industry in return for a decent income.
Secret Hotel Sleeper
Hotels usually employ secret sleepers who anonymously occupy their rooms and assess everything from cleanliness to customer service. Like mystery shoppers, they occupy rooms in hotels overnight and write reports. For travellers, it is a dream job that is a mixture of work and fun. Hotels consider their detailed feedback very valuable, and the remuneration reflects the responsibility of guaranteeing guest satisfaction.
These offbeat jobs might raise an eyebrow, but they demonstrate that the job market is full of unexpected opportunities. Whether it’s cuddling, paper towel sniffs or sleeping in swanky hotels, the working world is stranger and more lucrative than most people believe.
About the Author
Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha…Read More
Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha… Read More