When it comes to the cannabis industry, getting into the industry is the hardest part. We've teamed up with BIPOCANN to shape a more accessible and profitable legal cannabis industry. Here's how you can get a job at a Cannabis Dispensary!

What the Career Path at a Dispensary Looks Like

Working with cannabis is a dream job for many, and it's becoming a reality as more states legalize it. While changing your career path to work at a dispensary may seem risky, there are many opportunities in retail cannabis.

We spoke with Andes Rigal and Taylor Bazley, Co-Founders of Green Qween in Downtown LA, and Char Hernandez, Marketing Coordinator of Green Dragon, an MSO with 17 premium retail cannabis dispensaries in Colorado and 12 in Florida, to learn about the various jobs available in a dispensary, what you need to land a job, and long-term careers in the industry.

Common Careers in a Dispensary

To find the best career path for your goals and specific skill set, you need to understand what dispensary jobs there are. Here are some of the most common opportunities.

Budtender

The retail sales associate (or budtender) position is a dispensary's most common and readily available job.

A budtender is responsible for assisting customers and ideally possesses a deep understanding of all the products available at the dispensary. Budtenders also need to be knowledgeable about cannabis to accommodate consumers' questions.

"We're always open to meeting new sales associates who have a strong understanding of cannabis and enjoy expressing their own unique style," said Bazley and Rigal. "Although we may not always be hiring, we're interested in meeting people who want to make a positive difference in the world, and staying in touch for those times when positions open up

Hernandez herself even started her career in the cannabis industry as a sales associate.

"Cannabis had been in my life for a while, and I thought, why not get involved with the industry?' I found Green Dragon working in Cherry Creek, and I would visit them regularly for my supply. I started as a budtender and worked my way to where I am today. For my first industry job, my experience has been nothing but bliss!"

Security

Most dispensaries need security guards to prevent theft, break-ins, and to protect money transfers. Dispensary security is necessary because cannabis is valuable, and most dispensaries are forced to deal with cash. High-volume locations may even require armed security to keep staff safe and deter criminals.

Some dispensaries outsource security to private companies, while others hire guards internally. As store openings explode in legal states, a security industry blossoms. Many military veterans are finding jobs protecting these businesses.

Dispensary Manager

Every dispensary needs at least one person to run the day-to-day operations. Managers should understand retail sales, customer service, and human resources and be knowledgeable about cannabis.

Inventory Manager

Keeping up with a dispensary's inventory is typically a designated position for retail cannabis. An inventory manager must be in tune with the local cannabis market in providing tending products, offering competitive pricing, and incentivizing customers with sales.

Brand Ambassador

Many dispensaries have grown to become franchises, which creates the need for ambassadors to represent and promote the brand. The position entails bringing the dispensary's products, messaging, and image to the community.

Cannabis advertising is challenging due to federal regulations. Employing brand ambassadors is one way a dispensary can create interest without the support of traditional media outlets.

Other Professional Positions

The buying process at a dispensary is much more than just the interaction between a customer and a budtender. A marketing manager helps gets the customer through the door. A legal expert ensures the location follows state regulations. A financial professional handles the unique tax requirements for the cannabis industry.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, dispensaries had to change how they operate. Store capacities were limited, encouraging dispensaries to offer delivery and curbside pickup. The shift opened more career paths for IT professionals to handle online menus and integrate with third-party delivery services.

"Sales and marketing jobs will likely take off over the next few years," said Bazley and Rigal. "On the sales side, we imagine more reps will ask for equity from the brands they serve. Since these reps are on the front lines and have an impact on the bottom line, it makes sense for them to have skin in the game. From a marketing perspective, the cannabis industry still needs to bring in more senior and seasoned leaders from mainstream industries to help legitimize and effectively build the infrastructure to take startup brands from emerging to established."

The Trajectory of a Dispensary Career Path

There's a chance that cannabis may never become legalized federally in the United States. But access is still expanding, opening more job opportunities. The employment rate in the cannabis industry has increased since the first states legalized it in the early 2010s. In 2021, 280 jobs were created daily, with a year-over-year growth rate of 33%.

As of January 2022, there are 428,000 total jobs in cannabis. Of these jobs, approximately 35% are in retail.

With 21 states that have currently legalized cannabis, there's still room for growth. If this trajectory continues, there will only be more careers available in retail cannabis. New laws (such as consumption lounges), trends, and social acceptance all play a role in moving the industry forward to create more jobs.

If you're looking for a job at a dispensary, a budtender is a great place to start your career.

"There really isn't typical growth. You need to be vocal with what your career path wants to look like and display every aspect in any role that you are working. Show that you care, and it will show through your work," said Hernandez. "Being a District Manager or Store Manager seems to be a wonderful opportunity to get more involved in the company. Dedication and perseverance will aid in your success."

Bazley and Rigal agree that there isn't one path for growth at a dispensary, especially if it's a newer business like theirs, which opened in April 2022.

"Career growth is still being defined, mostly by our employees as they identify their professional interests and as Green Qween matures as a business."

Dispensary Career Path Prerequisites

Dispensary jobs are here to stay, and there are many opportunities to accommodate a wide range of skill sets. Before you start searching for your next dream job, you need to understand what's required to get hired.

Many entry-level jobs, such as security or budtenders, don't always have prerequisites since they're in high demand. However, every position in a dispensary requires a cannabis worker's license, typically regulated through the same government agency that handles commercial liquor licensing.

Do I Need a College Degree for a Dispensary Career Path?

Most dispensary jobs don't require a college degree or previous experience. But like most jobs, education and work history plays a role in the hiring process.

"No cannabis experience is required," said Bazley and Rigal. "We understand that life is a journey and for some people the step onto a new path starts with being given a shot. We are open and excited to meet anyone who is passionate and interested in building foundational change within the cannabis community."

All Green Qween asks of their sales associates is that they are invested in teamwork and bringing kindness into this world.

"There are all sorts of smarts and education that someone can possess, so we're interested in hearing from candidates what skills and qualifications they believe will add value to our business. We don't want to put our employees into a box, rather we're interested in how they can expand our circle of influence," said Bazley and Rigal.

For Hernandez and Green Dragon, the biggest thing you need to know to get hired is to be reliable, attentive, and responsible.

"I never had cannabis experience and got hired within three days," she said. "Green Dragon is 100% accepting and would love to hire passionate and hard-working people."

Additionally, the ability to promote brands and products, mention ongoing deals, and suggest additional products is undoubtedly a good skill.

Cannabis Industry Licenses

Every state requires a cannabis workers' permit for everyone at a dispensary. In Colorado, you'll need a MED badge. In Oregon, all employees must have a valid license from the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC). Processors, wholesalers, and retail workers are all required to carry the permit at their place of work. The permit requires you to pass a test, undergo a background check, and pay a $100 fee.

The licensing process will vary in each state, but it's typically similar to the OLCC. One of the most significant differences is the types of criminal charges allowed to pass a background check. For example, licenses are not awarded to applicants with a felony conviction in Oregon. But in New York, background requirements make exceptions for drug-related offenses.

Comparable Industries

Any retail experience will help you land a dispensary job. Serving customers and being knowledgeable about product inventory are qualities you need as a budtender or manager.

Looking for a management job, but you've never worked in a dispensary? You'll likely need a few years of experience managing employees.

"Since my background is in apparel retail, I would say that could be beneficial," said Hernandez. "If you can manage a team, produce results, and display a high level of passion, the limits are endless."

Responsibilities in the Cannabis Career Path

Starting as a budtender or another entry-level position is a great way to get your foot in the door if you plan in the cannabis industry for the long run.

Here are some of your day-to-day responsibilities depending on the job.

Entry Level

Jobs like budtender, security, receptionist, and delivery driver are typically entry-level positions at a dispensary. Each job requires you to serve patrons face-to-face with friendly, helpful customer service.

Checking IDs is one of the most essential jobs in a dispensary, almost exclusively handled by entry-level staff.

General Manager

The dispensary general manager is responsible for retail operations, including:

• Opening and closing the store
• Managing staff - hiring, scheduling, and employee training
• Drafting operating procedures
• Managing the dispensary facilities
• Building relationships with vendors and brand ambassadors
• Executing internal marketing campaigns/sales

Inventory Manager

Dispensary products are constantly coming and going. They require seed-to-sale tracking unique to the cannabis industry.

An inventory manager is responsible for ordering, receiving, stocking, and reporting products. Keeping track of stock levels and pricing is essential to keeping the dispensary profitable.

Operations/Compliance Manager

Large dispensaries or franchises require compliance managers to ensure the store operates within the law. Duties include:

• Maintaining proper licensing, financials, and tracking information
• Adhering to government regulators and adjusting to new laws
• Using technology like Metrc's seed-to-sale database

Corporate Opportunities

Some dispensary brands, like Green Dragon, operate in multiple states, and are commonly referred to as multi-state operators (MSOs).

As the industry evolves, more corporate career paths are available to new and existing employees. Corporate jobs include legal, financial, technology, regional managers, and human resources positions.

How to Get a Job at a Cannabis Dispensary

Now that you know everything about working at a cannabis dispensary, now's the time to apply!

For Bazley and Rigal at Green Qween, the best way to get a job in the industry is to "be yourself, speak and live your truth and clearly articulate your unique story and how it's the perfect fit for the organization you want to join. When you are your authentic self and can help recruiters connect the dots between you and the organization, then you'll likely stand out among other candidates.

With a larger number of stores across Colorado and Florida,"Green Dragon is always hiring! They have many benefits and want to involve everyone at every level for feedback and positivity," said Hernandez.

If you live in Colorado or Florida, you can apply to Green Dragon on Indeed for the quickest response. Once you secure an interview, check out these budtender interview questions to prepare for your interview! Plus, Hernandez notes if you want to join the industry, just do it!

"Cannabis is here to stay and grow. There are more jobs in the industry that have been created, so the variety is endless. I love the industry and would tell everyone to be a part of it!"