Choosing a career path can be a tricky decision. There are thousands of different jobs out there, with wide-ranging responsibilities to suit all kinds of personalities – including some very unusual ones you might not have heard of or considered before.
The team at Check-A-Salary have researched the current job market for us, and have unearthed some of the world’s most unusual jobs, that just might tick all of your boxes.
Whether you’re a confirmed foodie, a video games enthusiast or a social superstar, we’re here to tell you all about the unusual jobs that were made for you. And of course we’ll let you in on all the secrets, so you’ll know exactly how to land these perfect roles...
1. Food stylist
If you’ve got a talent for presentation and a creative flair, why not consider a job in food styling? This competitive field attracts those who love fine foods, and if you succeed you could find yourself earning up to £72,000 per year.
Food stylists do not need culinary expertise, but a degree in photography will stand you in good stead. Combine the experience you’ll gain while studying with a keen eye for detail and heaps of originality and you could be the next food stylist top chefs are clamouring to work with.
Top Tip: Use your social media channels – especially Instagram – to showcase your food styling and photography skills.
2. Chocolate taster
Many of us would love to spend the day tasting delicious chocolates, but have you got what it takes to be a professional chocolate taster? There’s far more to this role than meets the eye, because to succeed you’ll need a sophisticated palate, a way with words and a real penchant for puddings.
There are no specific qualifications required to get a job as a chocolate taster, but a food science or a chemistry degree could both be helpful in this field. If you’re successful, you’ll then be provided with full chocolate tasting training on the job. Sweet!
3. Listening officer
Social media is a booming business, and brands can’t get enough of the incredible marketing opportunities it provides. That’s why top companies now employ experienced social media managers as ‘listening officers’.
These marketing professionals are responsible for keeping an eye on public opinion concerning a brand, and highlighting any feedback that could help to determine future strategies.
Listening officers are often very skilled, and usually, have professional marketing qualifications as well as first-hand experience running social campaigns. Top listeners can expect to make up to £42,500 per year.
4. Video games tester
Find a job you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life. That’s what they say. And it’s completely true because if you turn your hobby into a career you’ll banish those Sunday blues for good. A video games tester is one of those dream roles that many of us would love to try, but of course, that means that competition is fierce!
To make it in the video gaming industry, you’ll need to really know your stuff. Of course, you’ll need to be genuinely interested in gaming, and you’ll have to be knowledgeable enough to impress your interviewers.
In terms of qualifications, it’s a good idea to explore multimedia computing courses (there are even specific gaming degrees available) and polish those analytical skills. These abilities may well come in handy when you start to apply for game testing roles.
5. Professional bridesmaid
Weddings are big business, and they provide plenty of lucrative career opportunities. If you’re organised, artistic and a dab hand at project management, then a job as a professional bridesmaid could be in your future.
Whilst this sounds a little strange, the role itself is really just a wedding planner with a difference. Professional bridesmaids tend to be incredibly involved in the planning process and the management of the 'big day' – more so than a traditional planner. In fact, they’re so involved that they even walk the bride down the aisle on the big day.
As part of the role you’ll build strong relationships with your clients, and you’ll help them put together the day of their dreams. We can’t help but think that this career would bring endless job satisfaction for the right wedding enthusiast.
6. Teddy bear technician
Thinking about a role in medicine but put off by the blood and gore? Well, a teddy bear technician is a good compromise. Sometimes injured and elderly teddies need a bit of TLC, and it’s a real job to provide that, at cutting-edge toy hospitals and teddy bear workshops.
Technicians have long been employed to fix much-loved teddies all over the world, and they do so with incredible care and attention. Of course, there are no medical qualifications required for those seeking a career as a teddy bear technician, but sewing skills are a must. Explore textiles qualifications and sewing diplomas to get started.
Still searching for the dream job?
Don’t feel disheartened if you haven’t stumbled upon the job of your dreams yet. It’s just a case of continuing the search. There are so many amazing job opportunities out there, and countless exciting ways to turn a passion into a career.
If you are still stuck for ideas, our handy course choosing tools can help you decide what to do. And to learn more about the different roles available and what these jobs could mean in terms of salary expectations take a look at UK salary calculator Check-a-Salary.
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