- Panda cuddler is a real job in China
- It involves knocking about the bear
- However there are a few things you need to know

Panda cuddler is a real job you can apply for, believe it or not!
Well, even if you can’t, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in the Sichuan Province does indeed hire people for the position of panda cuddler.
At initial glance, it seems like a dream job for those wanting a dosage of total cuteness.
Read more: Kevin Hart wants to be a ferret in Kung Fu Panda
For a yearly salary of $32,000, you can make your keep hugging and taking cute photos of the bears. It appears to be a gig that expects a 365 days a year attendance rate, but you also get accommodation, free food and a car to use.
You’d be entrusted with looking after cubs three years and under.
One of the potential drawbacks is you won’t be able to really leave the panda. Those selected for the role are expected to look after their charge 24/7.
There is a profession in China called panda cuddler. This job involves taking care of cubs under 3 years old. Cuddlers have to stay with their cubs all the time and hug them as often as possible. pic.twitter.com/VFfKbc9ZZY
— TheBoltMedia (@TheBoltMedia) April 5, 2025
What qualifications are needed to become a panda cuddler?
First things first, you have to be 22 or older. In addition to the age requirement, applicants must possess some knowledge of pandas, demonstrate good writing skills, and have photography skills. Perhaps, you’ll need to create a social presence for the cubs? Who knows? It is the 21st century, after all? They might even get you doing TikToks if you aren’t too careful.
Did you know ‘Panda Cuddler’ is an actual profession?
— Job Skills (@JobSkillsOrg) December 10, 2022
Sign us up!!!https://t.co/PvBffzOMlU pic.twitter.com/CiMMGJWivT
People can apply now. The job seems to be all about providing baby pandas with the stimulation they cannot receive due to living in captivity, rather than in the wild.
Can I do it on a volunteer basis?
According to the terms and conditions, individuals from countries such as the US, Japan, and Europe are invited to volunteer two weeks of their time for free to perform the same job.
panda cuddler https://t.co/80qcm29umJ pic.twitter.com/pGohGrmV3c
— boogie (@medicboogie) March 24, 2024
You’ll have to do it on your own dime, of course. Maybe a nice holiday?