1. Forensic Nurse

What They Do: Forensic nurses work closely with law enforcement to provide medical care to victims of assault, abuse, and violent crimes. They’re also trained to collect evidence and testify in court, blending medical care with the criminal justice system.

Why It’s Unusual: You’re not just treating patients—you’re helping to solve crimes.

Here is more information from the International Association of Forensic Nurses. 

2. Space Nurse (NASA)

What They Do: NASA employs nurses to ensure the health and safety of astronauts and mission teams. Space nurses help prepare astronauts for space travel, monitor their health during missions, and research the effects of space on the human body. Better start researching how to take of patients with zero gravity disorders, muscle loss, and mental health problems from long missions.

Why It’s Unusual: Working in space exploration takes nursing to literally astronomical heights.

From personal experience, I can tell you that these jobs are few and far between. I looked off and on for years. I had a relative who worked at NASA that looked occasionally for me. It is a legitimate position though. Check USAJobs.gov regularly for openings at NASA. There is even a Space Nursing Society.

3. Cruise Ship Nurse

What They Do: As mentioned before, cruise ship nurses work in a floating hospital, traveling the world while caring for passengers and crew. From seasickness to emergencies at sea, you’ll encounter unique challenges. Be sure to brush up on your ACLS and PALS, you will be taking care of all ages here.

Why It’s Unusual: You’ll need sea legs and a passport to work here!

Carnival Cruise lines is hiring now!

4. Disney Parks Nurse

What They Do: Are you a die-hard Disney fan? One of Disney’s theme parks might be perfect for you. Theme park nurses provide first aid and emergency care to park visitors and staff. Whether it’s a rollercoaster-induced injury or a heatstroke in the summer sun, you’ll keep the magic alive for everyone. Consider taking ACLS and PALS courses so you are ready to take care of children and adults of all ages at The Happiest Place on Earth.

Why It’s Unusual: Your “office” is in the middle of a theme park!

Right now, they only nursing position Disney has open is in Hong Kong, but sign up for their email list and get notified when jobs open!

5. Camp Nurse

What They Do: Camp nurses work at summer camps, sleep-away camps, or outdoor retreats, providing care for children and staff. You’ll treat minor injuries, illness, and sometimes even homesickness.

Why It’s Unusual: Trading in the hospital for the great outdoors—it’s healthcare in nature.

This is obviously a summer-time only job, but if you have that flexibility in your schedule, this could be a great way to spend your summer. This is a great seasonal job for nurses looking for part-time or summer work.

6. Death Doula Nurse

What They Do: Death doulas are nurses who guide patients and their families through the end-of-life process, focusing on comfort, emotional support, and creating a peaceful transition. This role focuses on dignity in death.

Why It’s Unusual: This role is all about providing compassionate care at a uniquely profound moment in life.

Death Doulas could be the next step for hospice nurses. If you are interested in this type of position, the International End of Life Doula Association offers more information, including online and in-person training.

7. Film Set Nurse

What They Do: Movie and TV sets hire nurses to be on standby for emergencies during filming. From treating minor scrapes to monitoring stunt performers, you’ll be part of the action.

Why It’s Unusual: Your workday could involve actors, stunts, and Hollywood glamour.

There are actually companies that hire and contract out medical staff (not just nurses!) for sets. Here is list of companies that hire health care workers for movie and TV sets if you are interested in pursuing this path.

8. Cosmetic Tattoo Nurse (Areola/Nipple Tattooing)

What They Do: Cosmetic nurses trained in tattooing often perform areola and nipple reconstruction tattoos for patients who’ve undergone mastectomies. It’s both a functional and emotional form of care, helping breast cancer survivors regain confidence. Many women might be more comfortable going to health care provider than a regular tattoo artist for this work.

Why It’s Unusual: Combining nursing and artistry, this job involves helping patients heal physically and emotionally through permanent body art.

I personally knew someone who was certified to tattoo nipples onto her patients post-mastectomy. She described it once as so rewarding; her breast cancer patients reported feeling normal looking at themselves in the mirror again after 2 years of surgery, chemo and radiation. 

There are several resources online to help you get started in this career. Here is one but there are many more online that you can find with a Google search.

9. Medical Marijuana Nurse

What They Do: Nurses in this field educate patients on the use of medical marijuana, assist in determining dosages, and help patients manage chronic conditions like pain or anxiety. You’ll work in clinics or dispensaries, blending patient care with alternative treatments.

Why It’s Unusual: This role is part of the evolving landscape of alternative medicine, focusing on plant-based therapies.

Of course, this role is not available in every state. Be sure to check the laws where you live. But, there is space in nursing for these roles.

AND THE JOB OF THE FUTURE!

10. Space Tourism Nurse

What They  Might Do: With space tourism on the rise, nurses may soon find themselves working with private space companies to ensure the health and safety of civilian space travelers. This role doesn’t exist yet, but short space tourism flights are happening. The more affordable, and the longer these trips become, the more jobs are going to open in that industry, especially for health care.

Why It’s Unusual: You’re preparing people for spaceflight—one of the most cutting-edge nursing roles imaginable!

Keep an eye open on companies like Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic so you can be among the first to apply.

It might be time to start nagging Jeff and Elon to get your foot in the door!