Dream Jobs - 7 alternatives to your childhood dream job (with salaries)

7 alternatives to your childhood dream job

Every kid dreams about what they want to be when they grow up. And unlike the realistic career pursuits of adults, those dreams aren't bogged down by little things like salaries, benefits packages, or feasibility. Most people give up on their crazy dreams as young adults, but what if 8-year-old you got your way and you actually became a giraffe wrangler? Read on to explore what a dream job is, discover seven alternatives to popular dream jobs, and browse tips for finding a career you'll love.

What is a dream job?

While the term dream job is subjective, it's typically a career that makes someone feel fulfilled, aligns with their interests, and provides a good work-life balance. Your dream job probably involves something you love and allows you to do work you're proud of. For example, if you love writing, you might dream of becoming a published author, or if you enjoy sports, your dream job might be a professional athlete.

Other aspects that can elevate an employment opportunity to dream job status include a flexible work schedule, high pay, an excellent benefits package, and a great work environment.

7 alternative dream job ideas

OK, so maybe giraffe wrangler isn't the easiest job to come by. But that doesn't mean you can't get close to fulfilling that childhood dream. Here are some childhood dream jobs and more realistic occupations to try instead:

Gummy bear taste tester

Try instead: Agricultural and food scientist

Job description: Food scientists and technologists use chemistry, biology, and other sciences to study the basic elements of food. They analyze the nutritional content of food, discover new food sources, and research ways to make processed foods safe and healthy. Food technologists generally work in product development, using findings from food science research to develop new or better ways of selecting, preserving, processing, packaging, and distributing food.

Typical education level: Associate degree

Average salary: $51,500 per year

Popstar

Try instead: Musician

Job description: Musicians and singers play instruments or sing for live audiences and in recording studios. They may perform various genres of music, such as classical, jazz, opera, hip-hop, and rock. Musicians may create music on their own as solo artists or collaborate with others in a band.

Typical education level: No formal education credential

Average salary: $104,500 per year

President

Try instead: Government consultant

Job description: Government consultants study the origin, development, and operation of political systems to provide advice to our elected leaders. They research political ideas and analyze governments, policies, political trends, and related issues.

Typical education level: Master's degree

Average salary: $109,000 per year

Cartoonist

Try instead: Animator

Job description: Animators create two- and three-dimensional models, animations, and visual effects. They may create art and motion graphics for television, movies, video games, or other forms of media.

Typical education level: Bachelor's degree

Average salary: $111,000 per year

"While the term dream job is subjective, it's typically a career that makes someone feel fulfilled, aligns with their interests, and provides a good work-life balance."

Video game player

Try instead: Software developer

Job description: Software developers design computer applications, such as word processors and games, for consumers. They may create custom software for a specific customer or commercial software for the public. Some software developers create complex databases for organizations. They also create programs that people use over the internet or within a company's intranet.

Typical education level: Bachelor's degree

Average salary: $133,000 per year

Equestrian

Try instead: Animal caretaker

Job description: Animal caretakers may train animals for obedience, performance, riding, security, or assisting people with disabilities. They familiarize animals with human voices and contact and teach them to respond to commands. Most animal trainers or caretakers work with dogs and horses, but some work with marine mammals, such as dolphins. Some may train dogs to guide people with disabilities, while others may teach animals to cooperate with veterinarians or train animals for competitions or shows.

Typical education level: High school diploma or equivalent

Average salary: $34,500 per year

Blimp pilot

Try instead: Airline and commercial pilot

Job description: Airline pilots fly for airlines that transport people and cargo on a fixed schedule. Commercial pilots fly aircraft for other purposes, such as charter flights, rescue operations, firefighting, aerial photography, and aerial application of agricultural materials. Pilots navigate the plane, manage communication with air traffic controllers, and ensure everyone aboard reaches their destination safely.

Typical education level: High school diploma or equivalent

Average salary: $43,500 per year

How to find your dream job

Even if becoming an astronaut or a giraffe wrangler isn't realistic, you can still find a career that checks most of the boxes on your dream job list. Here are some tips to help you narrow down your search and find something you love:

Identify your core values: Finding a job that aligns with your values can make going to work more rewarding.
Assess your skills and interests: Consider how you spend your free time, the hobbies you enjoy, and your unique skill set to uncover what type of industry or role you'd excel in.
Be honest about the effort required: Some dream jobs involve more training, expertise, and certifications than others, so be realistic about the amount of time, resources, and effort you need to put in before you can land your ideal role.
Research other professionals in your desired industry: Find people who are already doing your dream job well and examine the steps they took to find success. This can help you plan your career path.

Ready to find your dream job? Upload your resume to CareerBuilder or create a profile so employers can find you. You can also turn on email alerts to make sure you're notified when your dream job becomes available.