12 High-Paying Dream Jobs You Didn’t Know Existed

According to a 2024 Gallup survey (American multinational analytics and advisory company), only 18% of employees feel passionate about their jobs. The difference between generations is also noticeable. People over 65 tend to be more satisfied with their positions than employees between the ages of 30 and 49.

Are you considering a career change? The good news is that you are not alone. Many millennials tend to change jobs, choosing flexibility over stability. If you’re feeling lost in your career path, there are plenty of jobs for people who don’t know what to do, offering exciting opportunities beyond the traditional 9-to-5. In this article, you'll find inspiration for cool jobs you’ve never heard of—unique, high-paying careers that might just be the perfect fit for you.

What Makes a Job a High-Paying Dream Job?

The answer is different for everyone. But most people value a supportive environment at work, opportunities for professional growth, and flexibility. The phenomenon of the 'Great Reshuffle' is driven by the development of the mental health industry and the impact of the pandemic. The world is changing, and many new professions have appeared in the last decade. The Internet has made it possible for everybody to pursue their passions. There are many niche dream jobs that pay well in a variety of industries. Let's check some of them out.

12 High-Paying Dream Jobs You Didn’t Know Existed

At Miranna, we researched cool jobs you’ve never heard of—some of which might seem unreal at first. But there’s solid evidence that these jobs not only exist but also offer impressive salaries. Who in the world would pay for napping or chomping on crisps? But there is evidence that these dream jobs really exist and, moreover, they are quite high-paying.

1. Food Stylist

Average Salary per Year: $75 000

Just like human stylists, food stylists make sure that food looks good in advertisements, movies or other media. Food stylists use their creative vision and cooking skills to prepare and arrange dishes in the most mouthwatering way. So, if you like posting and scrolling through #foodporn pictures on Instagram, this job is for you.

2. Voice Actor

Average Salary per Year: Up to $160 000

This job may suit someone who constantly gets compliments about their voice. Voice actors provide voiceovers for animations, video games, commercials, or translated movies. Their earnings vary widely. For example, some voices have gained recognition and are associated with popular characters or famous foreign actors. Turns out that their owners are very well-paid.

3. Personal Shopper

Average Salary per Year: $45 000

Do you enjoy shopping? Then this job offer is for you. Some people are too busy or just don’t like the process. They hire a personal shopper to save their time, energy, and money by shopping for the best deals. This is a high-paying dream job with a lot of variety, as every client has different needs. If you are aware of fashion trends and have good taste, you can also give personal recommendations and style outfits.

4. Professional Napper

Average Salary per Year: $35 000

Nope, you haven’t misread it. Professional nappers work for research organisations which study the brain during sleep. These lucky ‘workers’ may also help mattress manufacturers develop high-quality products. So, if you don’t mind being watched while sleeping, this may be your dream high-paying job.

5. Golf Ball Picker

Average Salary per Year: $55 000

Golf is an expensive hobby, and people who play don’t want their expensive equipment to get lost. Golf ball pickers drive specially designed vehicles to collect golf balls, while their clients are playing. It’s an easy yet unique job you can get.

6. Professional Mermaid

Average Salary per Year: $47 000

There is a dream job for those who grew up watching H2O: Just Add Water. You can work as a gorgeous mermaid and get paid for it. This job requires a lot of training, endless love for water, and a passion for turning fantasy into reality.

7. Body Part Model

Average Salary per Year: $75 000

Open a jewelry, stockings, or shoes catalog, and you'll see beautiful hands, feet, legs, or even ears owned by body part models. This job includes showcasing your specific body parts for advertisements, product campaigns, or other artistic projects.

8. Seat Filler

Average Salary per Year: $37 000

Have you ever dreamt about attending glamorous awards ceremonies? Then seat filler is one of the coolest jobs you’ve probably never heard of. Not every single seat at such events is taken by the celebs themselves. Empty spaces are handed out to seat fillers to give the appearance of a full house.

9. Crisp Inspector

Average Salary per Year: $45 000

Another example of a job that may seem bizarre at first, though it really exists. Crisp inspectors taste crisps at manufacturers to make sure they are crispy enough to be sold. It’s hard to imagine any more satisfying work process than chomping on all different flavours of crisps.

10. Professional Cuddler

Average Salary per Year: $64 000

If you love a good cuddle, then why not get paid for it? Cuddle therapy uses platonic touch to relieve stress, anxiety, or depression. The client and the cuddler previously agree on everything that will happen during the session, so there is no need to worry about your safety. If you consider applying for this job, Cuddle Professionals International can provide training, accreditation and membership.

11. Ethical Hacker

Average Salary per Year: $106 000

Not all hackers are the bad guys. IT specialists called ethical hackers use their knowledge and skills to reveal weak points in cybersecurity systems. They hack websites and report to developers on what should be improved. Companies hire these analysts to protect their clients from the evil kind of hackers. Definitely one of the coolest high-paying jobs ever.

12. Pet Sitter

Average Salary per Year: $45 000

Do you enjoy the company of furry friends? Many pet owners have trouble leaving their dogs or cats home alone while travelling or working. Pet sitters may come over to clients' places and walk their dogs, feed their cats, fishes, or any other animals they keep. Another way is to organize a whole pet hotel for those who need constant care and attention.

Where to Find These Hidden Career Opportunities

Niche jobs that pay well are not hard to find on the internet. You can look them up on specialized job boards, LinkedIn, or ask in networking groups. But before you start researching these hidden career opportunities, you need to decide on your personal goals and strengths. A clear vision of who you are and what job you want will help you create a promoting resume and effectively communicate with potential employers. 

Some jobs require a certain level of education or niche skill-sets. You can gain knowledge and develop skills needed by studying online courses and practicing as a volunteer. For example, Coursera provides a variety of online courses on different subjects. Some of them are free, while others need to be paid for.

You can also explore career coaching or specialized training programs to smoothly transition into your high-paying dream job. Career coaches not only train your social and professional skills such as active listening, team working, or empathy. They help you find out your true passions and provide a personalized strategy on how to achieve your professional goals. 

Download The Miranna App to connect with a career coach that can help you discover your satisfying and high-paying dream job. Start leading your own life today.