The legality of medical and recreational cannabis is widening in America. Recreational cannabis is now legal in 15 states, with states like New York predicted to go fully legal soon.
According to a report by Leafly, the legal cannabis sector is now supporting 321,000 full-time jobs as of 2021 and job opportunities in the cannabis industry show no signs of slowing down.
If you've ever thought of getting a job in the cannabis industry, now could be a good time.
But where do you start your search for work, and what do you need to understand about the cannabis industry? This article will walk you through everything you need to know.
Understanding Cannabis Laws in America
One of the biggest areas of confusion is the laws surrounding cannabis. While the federal government continues to criminalize marijuana – both medicinally and recreationally – states have passed their own laws legalizing the substance. Because of this, possessing, buying, or selling marijuana in a legal state still technically means breaking federal law.
To further complicate things, these laws are always changing. If you want some guidance, you can see a full list of states where cannabis is legal and illegal here. However, it’s important to check your local laws frequently, as changes are not always widely publicized.
Recreational vs. Medicinal Cannabis
As detailed below, you’ll see there are some major differences between recreational and medical cannabis.
There are also more legal limitations on recreational cannabis, with laws not changing as quickly as they have for medical cannabis.
Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis has a lower THC content, but it has a higher concentration of Cannabidiol (CBD), thought to provide many medical benefits. Quality levels are higher because of careful monitoring, and thanks to stricter regulations, you will always know where the product came from.
Understanding Employee Licensing
If you want to work in the cannabis industry, you must understand employee licensing. In some states like Colorado, employees will need to have a license to work in the cannabis sector. They call this a Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) badge.
To get a MED badge, there are some conditions. The two main ones are:
You must be 21 or over.
You must be a legal resident in the state.
Getting Your MED Licence
To get a MED badge, you need to fill out an application, which you can download online. If you’re going to a MED center, you’ll need a photo ID and either cash or a check. MED application costs will vary by state. For Colorado, the fee is $100.
When you’re at a MED office, they’ll take your photo for the badge, along with your fingerprints for official records.
A member of staff should also explain that you must review the MED badge every two years.
Where to Find Jobs in the Cannabis Industry
There are four main sectors where you’ll find employment in the cannabis industry. These are growing, retailing, infused products and edibles, and ancillary services. In addition, you’ll find jobs in:
Packaging and manufacturing
Research and development
Cultivation
Science and patient care
Even if you have limited experience, there is likely to be a job suitable for you. For instance,bud trimming, packing, and administration positions often have little to no experience requirements. These could all be good starting positions to gain experience in the sector.
Narrowing down your choices
To narrow down your choices, consider any transferable skills you have, and which sector appeals to you. For instance, if you have a background in chemistry, a cultivation or science role may be a good fit. Or if you have a medical background, you may be interested in patient care. If you haven’t worked in the services industry at all, then you may find bud tendering to be ideal.
High-Paying Jobs in the Cannabis Industry
According to Investopedia, the highest paying jobs in the cannabis industry are in consultancy, with salaries often reaching six figures. Typically, a consultant will advise businesses on the legal side of the business, such as licensing and compliance. They will also help to find suitable locations and assist with the financial and tax side of the business. There are plenty of other cannabis positions that will bring in the big bucks. These include:
Chief Operating Officers (COO) and Chief Financial Officers (CFO)
COO and CFO positions can pay around $125,000 per year. A COO role includes overseeing cultivation facilities, harvesting, and processing.
A CFO is responsible for the accounting department. Among their duties are overlooking financial reporting, monitoring budgets, and finding cost savings.
Cannabis Extraction Technician
An extraction technician can earn up to $125,000 a year. Responsibilities include removing THC and CBD and adding solvents to create high strength concentrates.
Marijuana Edibles Chef
If you’ve been following the cannabis industry, you’ll know all about the popularity of cannabis edibles. From infused oils, brownies, gummies, and cookies — there’s an enormous variety available. If you're creative and know how to cook with cannabis, this may be the job for you.
Edibles chefs can earn anywhere from $40,000 to $80,000 a year, according to Investopedia. As well as the usual skills needed to be a chef, you will also need to understand how to infuse cannabis while creating great-tasting products. The edibles you create must also be consistent with state laws.
Marketing Positions
As the cannabis industry grows, you’ll find a lot of marketing jobs being advertised. If you have a background in the marketing sector, you may find that you’re ideally placed for these kinds of positions. Marketing jobs can pay well, varying from $40,000 to $89,000 per year.
However, if you are looking to start out in the cannabis industry, you don’t need advanced skills. There are plenty of suitable jobs you could consider. For example, companies often offer intern positions, bud trimming jobs, administrative, and security jobs that are perfect for those just starting out in the industry. Delivery and courier jobs are also available and suitable for entry-level employees.
If you’re looking for a job in this sector, your favorite search engine is the most obvious starting place. This will bring up some options in your area and give you an idea of the jobs that are available. If you can’t find anything suitable this way, then there are plenty of other ways of finding your ideal job.
Recruitment Agencies
Increasingly, you’ll see vacancies listed on regular recruitment agency websites. These can vary from marketing positions and bud trimming to more specialized areas like finance.
There are also several industry-specific job boards and cannabis placement agencies that detail the latest vacancies. Some of these also give hints and tips on applying for work.
Trade Shows and Job Fairs
Trade shows and job fairs give an opportunity to meet potential employers and start-ups that are getting established and need new staff. Trade fairs like the Lift & Co Cannabis Business Conference in Vancouver are just one example of the trade shows held in North America every year. You can find a full list of 2021 trade shows here.
In addition, cannabis job fairs are popular across America. If you’re looking for more career fairs, a useful list of industry events can be found here.
Networking Groups
Another source is networking groups, which you’ll find online. Sites like Meetup detail local groups that can be good networking opportunities.
Company Websites
If there’s a company you’d like to work for, check their website. Not every company goes through an agency, and you may find current openings advertised under the careers section. You could also send a speculative CV in case an opportunity opens up in the future.
Forums
Online forums may also be a good option. Regular contributors know what’s going on in the industry, so they may have some information about local vacancies or jobs further afield.
Getting Through an Interview
Before you can get a job in the cannabis industry, you first need to get through the interview. Some questions will be the same as those for any other industry, but there will be some major differences.
Common questions that you that your interviewer is likely to ask, including:
Why do you want to work in the cannabis industry?
Do you use cannabis or are you familiar with our products?
Why would you enjoy a job in this industry?
Prepare to have your cannabis knowledge tested. If you’re not an experienced user, it may be beneficial to read up on the science and browse various articles on the respective company’s website.
Give Your Answers Some Thought
Considering an interviewer will likely ask about your personal cannabis use, you should answer questions like these thoughtfully. For instance, if you have medical reasons for using cannabis, explain how it benefits you and the difference it has made to your health. If you’re a recreational user, explain how you use cannabis, how often you use it, and why.
Writing a Resume
Like any other sector, you should tailor your resume to the cannabis industry. However, if you don’t have any experience, don’t let this put you off. Instead, write a skill-based resume and focus on these. As you would with any other resume, start with your personal profile and highlight your experience, skills, and qualifications.
There are some qualities that can help you find work in the cannabis sector. Among them are:
Versatility
Flexibility
Industry knowledge
Perseverance
Confidence
In this ever-changing sector, you also must have a good understanding of laws and compliance.
Join the Growing Cannabis Sector
The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in America, a. A, and if the predictions are correct, jobs in the industry are likely to keep growing. Changes in legislation and the increased availability of cannabis products are one of the main reasons for this growth.
If you are looking for an opportunity to work in the cannabis industry, now could be your time. High-paying jobs in this sector including CFOs, COOs, and consultants. However, even with limited experience, there are still plenty of opportunities for you.
From bud trimming and bud tending to courier work, Joblist can help you find various positions to get your foot in the door. Use our search tool to specify location, position, or company, and instantly find hundreds of listings that match your wants. Whether you’re just starting out in the cannabis industry or a seasoned professional, we’re here to help you further your career in the growing industry.
