Top 6 Cannabis Careers Worth Exploring
Here are 6 different types of cannabis positions to know about
Finding the right career path takes time. But it also requires aligning passion and skills with the right industry. Many people across the nation are recognizing the benefits of working in the fast-growing cannabis industry. If you are interested in finding your way into this market, where do you start? What kind of experience do you need? And what are the most popular career paths?
Here are six top cannabis positions to keep an eye on right now:
Edibles chef
Dispensary manager
Budtender
Harvester
Marketer
Delivery driver
We will take a deeper look at each of these roles, including the desired experience and background.
1. Edibles chef
The world of cannabis edibles is growing. This means that chefs are stepping up to make unique, original creations to give them an edge in the market. Edibles include baked goods, candies and gummies, teas, chocolates, sauces, desserts, and more. In addition to edibles chefs, there are also many similar workers involved in the creation process, taking over tasks like packaging up the edibles, working the assembly line, and others.
Experience and qualifications for these roles will vary, but past positions handling food and making original food creations are assets. Sometimes a degree or educational background in culinary arts is preferred.
2. Dispensary manager
Dispensaries are the retailers that put the products in front of the customers. As with any retail space, a store manager is in charge of everyday dispensary operations, employee matters, scheduling, and sales. They may also be responsible for hiring the team of budtenders and salespeople on the floor and handling escalated issues.
Managers should have experience either in working in dispensaries or other similar retailers. Previous positions managing other people will also be an advantage when trying to land a dispensary manager role. If seeking a role in a medical marijuana dispensary, a background in pharmacology will set you ahead of the competition.
3. Budtender
Budtenders are experts on cannabis products. They are friendly, personable, and can answer any customer questions about the different selections. Just as a bartender would have a thorough knowledge of all types of drinks and spirits, budtenders can advise customers on appropriate strains for their needs.
In addition to knowledge about cannabis, successful budtenders should have experience in customer service, sales, or similar retail environments.
4. Harvester
Harvesters are a significant part of the cannabis industry. They are in charge of growing and trimming the plants themselves, and sometimes extracting and packaging tasks, as well. For people looking to scale in the cannabis industry, harvester positions can be a great place to start. But, they can also turn into long-term careers.
Harvesters have an in-depth knowledge of the plants, how the supply chain works, and other helpful information about the industry, all with firsthand experience. Individuals with a passion for learning about cannabis, even if they have no relevant experience, are often good candidates for these roles. It should be noted, that some employers in the space prefer for those working within a grow operation to possess an agricultural background.
5. Marketer
The cannabis industry is young and growing, and businesses need excited, adaptable individuals to lead their marketing and advertising campaigns. Cannabis marketers need to keep abreast of shifts within the industry. They should be able to spin a brand’s message so that it resonates with the right audience. And, marketers should be familiar with and have multi-channel experience.
Education and experience in marketing, social media, and similar roles are required for these positions.
6. Delivery driver
Delivery drivers are in pretty high demand, particularly for medical cannabis products. This is another role where someone interested in cannabis can break into the industry or begin a long career, providing a necessary service.
These people are responsible for loading products, driving a company vehicle, scheduling drop-offs and pick-ups, and other related tasks. Drivers could also be truck drivers transporting products from location to location.
Work with a recruiting firm focused on the cannabis industry
If you are interested in working in the cannabis industry in one of these roles or others, it is wise to work with a recruiting firm with knowledge of that particular market. Drive Talent LLC helps both candidates and companies align their goals and right the right fit.
Drive Talent is a Chicago-based boutique recruiting firm run by women. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.