Popular Cannabis Industry Jobs

The cannabis industry is growing at an exponential rate and it needs fresh employees to fill in the blanks. Not only that, but the more employees the industry has, the quicker it can grow and create new jobs. Indeed, the cannabis industry hash ball is rolling and gaining momentum with every employee it picks up along the way. Do you want to be part of it? It’s easier than you might think. Let’s examine some of the most popular jobs and employment categories for the cannabis industry.

Jobs in the cannabis industry that work directly with the plant often require special licensing and permits – like a MED badge in Colorado. Licensing conditions vary by location but usually include a background and credit check, theoretically to help block black market cannabis sales and prevent other illegal activities from happening. Nevertheless, direct cannabis jobs can be a rewarding way to earn a name as a cannabis industry professional. 

Budtenders and Sales Pros

Budtenders and sales industry professionals are the face of the cannabis industry. Those with outgoing personalities and some serious cannabis know-how are best for this position, especially if they have prior sales or retail experience. Proper licensing may be required to sell cannabis products.

Growers

The cannabis industry will always need growers, and the experience needed to perform these duties ranges considerably between entry-level positions and master growers. For example, whereas entry-level growers need only a high school education and an ability to adhere to strict procedures, a master grower position often requires a formal education and years of hands-on experience.

Trimmers

Marijuana trimmer is an entry-level position that pays decently and offers a somewhat variable schedule. As such, cannabis trimming jobs are ideal for those with unique schedules and an ability to sit still for hours at a time.

Marijuana trimming is a great place to start if you are looking to work in the cannabis industry.

The good news is that trimming jobs are usually very relaxed, filled with good company and great music. If you can find the right trimming job it can also lead to growth within the company as well.

Processers and Packagers

After cannabis is grown, harvested and trimmed, it must be processed and packaged for consumption. Typical processing jobs include experienced edibles manufacturers and extraction technicians as well as entry-level processors and packagers. 

Ancillary cannabis businesses are those that support the cannabis industry without directly touching the plant. There are countless ancillary cannabis companies in need of quality employees and they are just as important to cannabis business operations as cannabis itself. Examples of ancillary cannabis companies include equipment retailers, law firms, realtors, security services and more. Basically, any business that aims their products and services toward the cannabis industry is an ancillary cannabis company. 

Marketing

Like any business, cannabis companies need marketers. However, cannabis marketing is a unique beast that requires diligent attention to protocol lest it suddenly disappear. Cannabis businesses need marketers who are familiar with cannabis marketing best practices and will pay good money to experts who can deliver. This can include graphics or digital marketing experts, or just a super talented writer who understands SEO best practices. 

Accounting

Cannabis accountants are in high demand for a few reasons. First, many cannabis businesses are small and need someone to handle their finances while they focus on other business operations.

Accounting is a great way to get involved in the cannabis industry without directly getting involved with the plant. photo credit

Second (and most importantly), cannabis accountants are well-versed in cannabis business tax laws which, unfortunately, are stickier than the stickiest of icky. 

Compliance

Those with experience in other regulated fields such as finance, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, are especially valuable to cannabis business owners. People with a background in a heavily regulated industry understand the complexities of compliance and the repercussions of failure.  

Cannabis Tech/Web Development

The technology industry is growing right alongside the cannabis industry. As technological advances continue to improve our everyday lives, so, too, it will improve the efficiency of cannabis business operations. Those with a knack for technology including the ability to build and maintain websites are incredibly valuable in every sector of the cannabis industry. 

There are jobs in the cannabis industry a-plenty, and they go far beyond the standard budtender and trimmer positions. For those who want to work in the weed biz, there’s never been a better time. No matter what your background or work history, there’s probably a cannabis job opening perfect for you.

Do you work in the cannabis industry? Tell us what you do in the comments below. 

Photo Credit: My 420 Tours (license)