When it comes to making money, not every job is glamorous or clean. Some jobs are downright dirty, but they can be surprisingly lucrative. Whether you’re looking for a full-time career or a side hustle, these unconventional jobs prove that there are many ways to make a living—even if it means getting your hands a little dirty. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the dirtiest (and sometimes oddest) ways to make money, from dog poop cleaner to pest extermination. Let’s dive in!
1. Dog Poop Cleaner
What It Is: Dog poop cleaning, also known as “pet waste removal,” involves cleaning up dog waste from yards, parks, and other outdoor spaces. This job might sound unappealing, but it’s in high demand, especially in urban areas where dog owners often lack the time or desire to clean up after their pets.
Earning Potential: Dog poop cleaners can earn anywhere from $15 to $20 per visit, depending on the size of the yard and the number of dogs. Some businesses offer weekly or bi-weekly plans, leading to a steady income. With a regular client base, it’s possible to make a decent living doing this job.
Why It’s Lucrative: Many dog owners are willing to pay for convenience, making this a recession-proof business. Start-up costs are low, requiring just some basic equipment like gloves, bags, and a pooper scooper.
2. Roadkill Cleaner
What It Is: Roadkill cleaners are responsible for removing dead animals from roads and highways. This job, typically managed by local government or private contractors, is essential for public safety and environmental health.
Earning Potential: Roadkill cleaners often earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $30, depending on the location and contract. Some government positions offer benefits and a steady paycheck, making this a stable, if unpleasant, career option.
Why It’s Lucrative: The job is essential and not everyone is willing to do it, which keeps demand high. Additionally, some roadkill cleaners are contracted by states or municipalities, providing job security.
3. Dog Food Tester
What It Is: Yes, this job exists! Dog food testers evaluate the taste, texture, and nutritional value of dog food. While this might involve some taste-testing (don’t worry, they usually spit it out), the primary focus is on assessing the quality of the product.
Earning Potential: Dog food testers can earn between $30,000 and $70,000 per year, depending on their experience and the company they work for. Some positions may also offer benefits and bonuses.
Why It’s Lucrative: Pet food is a multi-billion dollar industry, and companies are willing to pay good money to ensure their products are top-notch. While the job is unusual, it offers a stable income and the chance to work in the growing pet industry.
4. Google Sensitive Content Checker
What It Is: Sensitive content checkers for Google (or similar companies) review flagged content that may be inappropriate, offensive, or harmful. This content can include anything from violent videos to graphic images, and the job involves making sure such content doesn’t violate company policies.
Earning Potential: Content checkers can earn between $36,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on their experience and location. Some positions offer remote work opportunities, which is a bonus for those looking for flexible work arrangements.
Why It’s Lucrative: The demand for content moderation is high, especially with the growth of online platforms. While the job can be mentally taxing due to the nature of the content, it provides a steady income and job security in the digital age.
5. Headstone Cleaning
What It Is: Headstone cleaning involves maintaining and restoring gravestones in cemeteries. This job often requires cleaning, polishing, and sometimes repairing old or damaged headstones to preserve their appearance and readability.
Earning Potential: Headstone cleaners can charge between $50 to $150 per headstone, depending on the level of work required. Some may also offer maintenance packages for recurring income, especially in large cemeteries.
Why It’s Lucrative: Families want to preserve the memories of their loved ones, and headstone maintenance is a way to ensure that gravestones remain in good condition for years to come. This job is often done on a freelance basis, offering flexibility and the potential to build a loyal client base.
6. Clinical Trial Participant
What It Is: Participating in clinical trials involves volunteering to test new medical treatments, drugs, or procedures under controlled conditions. This can range from taking medications to undergoing specific treatments, all while being monitored by healthcare professionals.
Earning Potential: Clinical trial participants can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the trial’s length, the risks involved, and the type of study. Some long-term studies may pay participants monthly stipends.
Why It’s Lucrative: Clinical trials offer a way to make money while contributing to medical research. However, it’s important to carefully consider the risks involved, as some trials may have side effects or require significant time commitments.
7. Dairy Farmer
What It Is: Dairy farming involves raising cows (or other milk-producing animals) for the purpose of harvesting and selling milk. This job includes milking the animals, feeding them, maintaining the farm, and ensuring the health of the livestock.
Earning Potential: Dairy farmers’ earnings can vary widely based on the size of the farm, the number of livestock, and the market price of milk. On average, dairy farmers in the U.S. can earn between $30,000 and $70,000 per year, though successful operations can earn significantly more.
Why It’s Lucrative: Dairy products are a staple in many diets, ensuring a consistent demand. While the job is labor-intensive and comes with risks like fluctuating milk prices, it offers a steady income for those willing to put in the hard work.
8. Online Survey Sites
What It Is: Participating in online surveys involves answering questions about products, services, or general opinions for market research purposes. Companies use this data to improve their offerings, and they pay participants for their time.
Earning Potential: Earnings from online surveys can range from a few cents to several dollars per survey, depending on the length and complexity. Some dedicated survey takers can earn a few hundred dollars per month by signing up for multiple survey sites.
Why It’s Lucrative: While not a full-time income, online surveys provide an easy way to make extra cash in your spare time. With no special skills required, it’s accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
9. Pest Extermination
What It Is: Pest exterminators are responsible for removing unwanted pests, such as rodents, insects, or other creatures, from homes and businesses. This job often involves the use of chemicals, traps, and other methods to eliminate infestations.
Earning Potential: Pest exterminators can earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, with some specialists in high-demand areas earning even more. Many exterminators work for established companies, while others operate their own businesses.
Why It’s Lucrative: Pests are a common problem, and homeowners and businesses are willing to pay for professional services to get rid of them. The job offers steady work, especially in regions with high pest activity.
10. Sell Used Items
What It Is: Selling used items involves finding, refurbishing, and reselling goods like furniture, electronics, clothing, and more. This can be done through online platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or local markets.
Earning Potential: Earnings can vary widely depending on the type and condition of the items sold. Some people make a few hundred dollars per month, while others turn it into a full-time business, earning thousands.
Why It’s Lucrative: This is a flexible job that can be done part-time or full-time, with the potential to scale up as you gain experience. Finding valuable items for cheap and reselling them for a profit can be highly rewarding.
11. Selling Your Hair
What It Is: Selling your hair involves growing it out to a certain length and then cutting it off to sell to wig makers, extensions companies, or other buyers. Hair must be healthy, untreated, and often a specific length to fetch a good price.
Earning Potential: The price for hair can vary, but high-quality hair can sell for anywhere between $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on its length, thickness, and color.
Why It’s Lucrative: For those with long, healthy hair, this can be an easy way to make a significant amount of money with minimal effort. It’s a one-time income opportunity, but it can be repeated if you’re willing to grow your hair out again.
12. Veterinarian
What It Is: Veterinarians are medical professionals who diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries, and conditions in animals. This job requires extensive education and training, but it’s a rewarding career for those who love animals.
Earning Potential: Veterinarians typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 per year, depending on their specialization, location, and experience. Those with their own practices or who specialize in high-demand areas can earn significantly more.
Why It’s Lucrative: The veterinary field offers a stable and often high-paying career, especially for those who specialize in areas like surgery, oncology, or exotic animals. While it requires a significant investment in education, the financial rewards and job satisfaction can be