In an earlier day, women's blouses, or the top half of their costumes, were called "waists". Could this man have been an inspector in a garment factory which made waists? Many Jewish immigrants went into the garment industry. Much of this was on the lower east side. And often the word "house" is used for a business, as when we say "in-house publication." Just a guess. I'd also look quickly through the neighborhood to see if this occupation occurs in any other household around. Jan Hall