* Dog sled racer: This is perhaps the most well-known job he held. He raced dogs in Alaska, and his experiences with sledding and dogs are reflected in many of his books, particularly "Hatchet" and "The Winter of the White Dog."
* Trapper: Paulsen lived a life close to nature, trapping animals in the Alaskan wilderness. This experience gave him firsthand knowledge of the survival skills and relationship with the environment that he often writes about.
* Carpenter: While not as widely known, Paulsen also worked as a carpenter. This practical experience likely contributed to his detailed descriptions of construction and outdoor skills in his writing.
* Commercial fisherman: Paulsen worked as a commercial fisherman in Alaska, gaining an understanding of the sea and the harsh realities of that profession.
These varied and challenging experiences provided Paulsen with a wealth of knowledge and insight that informed his writing, giving his stories authenticity and depth.