While most people compete over “desirable” high-paying jobs, there are other jobs that they tend to stay away from due to their nature or working conditions. In this article, we’ll share some of these jobs that, despite often offering decent salaries, tend to be overlooked or avoided by job seekers.
Slaughterhouse Worker
The role of a slaughterhouse worker involves the killing and processing of animals for food—there’s no need for an explanation of why this is off-putting to many. It requires a strong stomach and the ability to work in a demanding environment. While the job offers relatively good pay, it is morally and emotionally challenging for many.
Mortician
Also known as funeral directors or undertakers, morticians handle the preparation of the deceased for funerals. This job involves retrieving bodies, assisting families with arrangements, and possibly embalming. It also requires an associate degree in mortuary science or embalming and a state license.
Coal Miner
The risks that come with working in dangerous underground environments make this job undesirable for most people. Coal miners have a high risk of accidents and long-term health issues. While the job is well-paid, it’s also physically and mentally taxing.
Portable Toilet Cleaner
If you’ve ever been in a portable toilet, we don’t need to tell you that they can be unpleasant at the best of times. This is why the role of portable toilet cleaner isn’t a popular one. It may offer steady pay and flexible hours, but it’s typically viewed as undesirable and dirty.
Plumber
The duties of a plumber include installing, repairing, and maintaining pipes, drainage systems, and fixtures. It’s a respectable role, but many people turn their noses up at anything to do with toilets. The job itself often requires an apprenticeship under a master plumber and passing a state licensing exam.
Sewage Inspector
A sewage inspector’s role involves inspecting and maintaining sewage systems. According to NACHI, these professionals can find blockages and damage to pipe systems. The job is often considered undesirable due to the perceived unpleasant working conditions caused by odors and pests.
Landfill Operator
Landfill operators manage the collection and transportation of waste to landfills. It involves working in dirty and smelly conditions, which is exactly what puts people off the job. Luckily, it offers a good salary, especially in upper-level positions.
Embalmer
Another job that is very unpopular is that of an embalmer. These professionals prepare deceased bodies for funerals. It requires working closely with the dead, which is not appealing to many. The role also needs specialized education but offers a solid salary.
Crime Scene Cleaner
There’s no need for a lengthy explanation as to why most people don’t want this job—it involves cleaning up after homicides, accidents, and other traumatic events. In this role, workers are exposed to hazardous materials and emotionally taxing scenes. It’s well-paid but requires strong emotional resilience.
Sanitation Worker
“Sanitation workers provide an essential public service that all too often comes at the cost of the health, safety, and dignity of those same workers,” as per the World Health Organization. These workers play a key role in keeping communities clean, and jobs range from government trash collectors to business-specific sanitation roles.
Medical Tester
These testers participate in clinical trials for new medications, a role that is potentially dangerous due to unapproved drugs and possible side effects. It can be lucrative but poses health risks, which is why people tend to stay away.
Oil Rig Worker
Oil rig workers get great salaries, but along with having to spend long periods away from home, the job is also physically demanding and based in remote locations. There’s also a high risk of accidents and exposure to harsh conditions.
Bull Semen Collector
A very unique role, this job involves collecting semen from bulls for breeding purposes. The nature of the work is unusual and potentially off-putting. While surprisingly well-paid, it’s not a common career choice (for obvious reasons).
Urine Farmer
Another job that most people aren’t lining up for is that of a urine farmer. The role of this worker is to collect animal urine for use in hunting lures. It’s an unusual job with specific niche applications and can be highly profitable but not widely sought after.
Truck Driver
This role involves very long hours of driving over vast distances, often under challenging conditions while remaining focused. It also means lots of time spent away from family. The driver’s responsibilities include vehicle safety inspections and compliance with regulations.
Railroad Police Officer
Railroad police officers ensure the safety and security of transit systems. Their responsibilities include patrolling, investigating thefts or other crimes, and sometimes arresting suspects. Some people view it as a dangerous role or are off-put by the required police academy training.