Notes, 4 Jobs for Daredevils
Hotshot Crew Member
The job: Hotshot crew members exceed the typical training, experience and physical fitness of the average firefighter and specialize in fighting the toughest part of a wildland fire.
The risk: Pretty high. In addition to suppressing fires, which can entail flying to remote locations for weeks at a time with limited resources and heavy equipment, they often perform dangerous search and rescue missions.
The pay: $36,474/year and $41,829 with benefits and bonuses.
Hazmat Diver
The job: Hazmat divers swim through sewers, inside nuclear reactors, through toxic spills on coasts, and in waterways to perform cleanup of chemical spills, and repair and maintain pipelines.
The risk: Pretty high. In order to be exposed to any number of toxic materials and bacteria, these workers need only a minor breach in their drysuits, which takes skill to avoid considering the random shards of glass or syringes that may be found on the job.
The pay: $31,183/year and $38,189 with benefits and bonuses.
Rodeo Clown
The job: Rodeo clowns entertain the crowd at rodeos between sets and, more importantly, protect cowboys from getting trampled by an angry bull during sets. Rodeo clowns are charged with the responsibility of distracting the bull long enough for the cowboys can get back on their feet and back to safety.
The risk: High. In order to protect a cowboy from getting trampled, these bullfighters risk getting trampled themselves. To survive their job, these clowns must have nerves of steel and be faster than a speeding bull.
The pay: $31,054/year and $37,480 with benefits and bonuses.
Stunt Performer
The job: Stunt performers stand in for actors on film sets, performing specialized -- and often dangerous -- stunts.
The risk: Significant. The stunts often involve jumping from high buildings, driving and crashing automobiles and even catching on fire; however, strategic timing and prop use help to minimize these dangers.
The pay: $42,539/year and $53,026 with benefits and bonuses.
