Top 10 Secret Jobs No One Knows About (But Should)

In a world buzzing with common job titles like software developer, nurse, or accountant, there’s an entire underground of lesser-known, high-value careers that fly under the radar. These “secret jobs” are not necessarily covert but are often overlooked despite offering excellent pay, flexibility, and job satisfaction.

This article uncovers the top 10 secret jobs no one knows about but should—each explained in detail, backed by real-world examples, and curated with actionable insights for those looking to pivot or expand their career options.

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1. Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)

What It Is:

Ethical hackers are cybersecurity experts who test systems, networks, or apps for vulnerabilities—all with permission. They simulate cyberattacks to identify and fix weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them.

Why It’s Secret:

Most people associate hacking with criminal activity and don’t realize there’s a legitimate, high-paying side to it.

Average Salary:

$80,000 – $150,000/year (USA)

How to Get Started:

• Learn cybersecurity basics (try CompTIA Security+)
• Take Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification
• Practice on ethical hacking platforms like Hack The Box or TryHackMe

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2. Voiceover Artist for AI & Virtual Assistants

What It Is:

With AI booming, companies need natural-sounding voice samples for training models. You record phrases, emotions, and reactions for smart assistants, chatbots, and voice technology.

Why It’s Secret:

Unlike traditional voiceover work (TV, radio), this is B2B and often under NDA, so artists don’t publicize it.

Average Pay:

$50 – $500 per hour

How to Get Started:

• Invest in a quality mic
• Take a voice coaching course
• Sign up on platforms like Voices.com or Bunny Studio

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3. Foley Artist

What It Is:

Foley artists create everyday sound effects for movies, series, and video games. Footsteps, clothes rustling, or a punch—all made in a sound studio.

Why It’s Secret:

Moviegoers hear the result but never see the people behind the sounds.

Average Pay:

$40,000 – $80,000/year

How to Get Started:

• Learn sound design
• Volunteer or intern at film schools
• Build a sound library portfolio

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4. Niche Research Analyst

What It Is:

These professionals conduct market or academic research in specific, high-demand niches like rare diseases, emerging tech, or regional policy.

Why It’s Secret:

Big organizations outsource these roles quietly to experts in academia or freelancing platforms.

Average Pay:

$60,000 – $120,000/year

How to Get Started:

• Specialize in a niche
• Offer research gigs on Upwork or Kolabtree
• Publish mini whitepapers to attract clients

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5. Disaster Simulation Planner

What It Is:

They design simulated crises (e.g., earthquakes, cyberattacks, or pandemics) for corporations and governments to test emergency preparedness.

Why It’s Secret:

This is often an internal function in security firms or governments, rarely advertised openly.

Average Pay:

$70,000 – $110,000/year

How to Get Started:

• Study emergency management
• Learn scenario planning and risk analysis
• Apply to work in large organizations, city councils, or FEMA

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6. Algorithm Bias Auditor

What It Is:

These professionals analyze AI models and machine learning algorithms to identify and correct bias (racial, gender, socioeconomic, etc.).

Why It’s Secret:

It’s a new, emerging field that many outside AI circles haven’t heard of.

Average Pay:

$85,000 – $160,000/year

How to Get Started:

• Study data science and ethics
• Follow organizations like AI Now Institute
• Contribute to open-source projects tackling bias in AI

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7. Undercover Product Tester (Mystery UX Analyst)

What It Is:

Companies secretly hire testers to use and critique new apps, stores, or physical products under the radar. Not just mystery shopping—this includes usability testing, emotion analysis, and product experience.

Why It’s Secret:

Most testers sign NDAs, and companies don’t want their testing processes public.

Average Pay:

$25 – $150/hour

How to Get Started:

• Join sites like UserTesting, IntelliZoom, or Respondent
• Learn UX basics
• Build a reputation through feedback quality

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8. Digital Legacy Manager

What It Is:

They help people plan what happens to their digital presence (social media, emails, crypto wallets) after they die.

Why It’s Secret:

Death and digital assets are rarely discussed together. It’s a modern need few know exists.

Average Pay:

$50 – $100/hour

How to Get Started:

• Understand digital estate planning laws
• Get certified in digital asset management
• Offer services via estate lawyers or online platforms

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9. ASMR Content Producer

What It Is:

ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) creators make videos with sounds that relax listeners (e.g., whispering, tapping, brushing). Some content earns thousands per month via YouTube or Patreon.

Why It’s Secret:

Many creators don’t use their real identities, and ASMR is niche but growing.

Average Income:

$1,000 – $20,000/month depending on audience size

How to Get Started:

• Choose a theme (spa, food, roleplay)
• Buy quality audio gear
• Upload consistently to YouTube and TikTok

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10. Virtual Juror

What It Is:

Attorneys test arguments before trial by presenting them to a group of paid virtual jurors. It helps them understand how a real jury might respond.

Why It’s Secret:

It sounds fictional, but it’s real legal prep that many people don’t know they can earn from.

Average Pay:

$20 – $60 per case (1-2 hours)

How to Get Started:

• Sign up on sites like eJury or OnlineVerdict
• Have a strong attention to detail
• Be honest and articulate in feedback

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Final Thoughts

In the evolving job market, the best opportunities often hide in plain sight. These secret jobs provide meaningful, flexible, and lucrative careers without requiring a traditional path. Whether you’re transitioning careers or seeking a side hustle, tapping into these lesser-known fields can offer a powerful and fulfilling change.