Common Cannabis Gig Jobs

Looking to embark on a career path in one of the most rapidly growing industries? Welcome to the world of cannabis, where opportunities abound and roles span a diverse spectrum. From cultivation to retail, extraction to research, the cannabis industry offers a multitude of exciting career avenues for individuals passionate about cannabis and eager to contribute to the growth of the industry. According to the 2024 Vangst Jobs Report, the industry is projected to skyrocket over the next 2 quarters. Here are some of the basic requirements to work in the industry and some of the most well-known jobs available.

Generally, individuals seeking employment in the cannabis industry must be at least 21 years old and pass a criminal background check, though this requirement varies by state. A valid driver's license or state ID card is usually necessary for consideration, and in some states, a specific state badge may be required. Educational requirements vary depending on the role, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often required.

Retail

Budtenders: Budtenders are essential sales associates in dispensaries, serving as the frontline staff assisting customers seeking medical or recreational cannabis products. They fulfill a role akin to bartenders, providing customer service, making product recommendations, and offering advice. Responsibilities include guiding first-time customers in product selection, attending industry events to stay updated on new products and regulations, recommending suitable products for various needs, learning about customers' preferences, staying abreast of industry trends, and ensuring adherence to legal protocols.

Inventory: As a cannabis inventory specialist, the primary role is to meticulously manage the flow of products within the company. They are responsible for verifying incoming and outgoing shipments to ensure accuracy and completeness. This involves carefully inspecting orders, comparing them against purchase orders, and noting any discrepancies. Should any issues arise with inventory management systems or processes, the inventory specialist should promptly report them to the managers for resolution. Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy will be critical in maintaining smooth operations and preventing inventory-related errors

Production

Trimmers: Cannabis harvesters, also known as trimmers, play a vital role in preparing marijuana plants for sale, performing quality trimming efficiently and precisely. While experience in the cannabis industry is beneficial, it's not always required. Essential qualities include dexterity, precision, organizational skills, and knowledge of cannabis strains and plant anatomy. Trimmers de-fan plants, accurately weigh and record them, maintain cleanliness, and ensure product quality. The goal is to follow specific techniques such as trimming close to the stem without damaging the bud and removing small leaves to achieve a manicured appearance. They may also interact with customers, requiring customer service skills. Additionally, trimmers handle side tasks like medicine processing and reporting updates to management. Integrity, resourcefulness, and the ability to work independently or in a team are crucial. Attention to detail and adaptability to a fast-paced environment are also essential.

Extractors: Cannabis extraction technicians operate within laboratory settings, utilizing equipment, heat, pressure, and solvents to extract chemical compounds from cannabis plants. Their work involves handling potentially hazardous substances such as butane, ethanol, and carbon dioxide. Ensuring the purity of extracted compounds is a key responsibility, requiring testing, processing, and refining. Technicians also collect samples, assess potency, and meticulously record and analyze data. Safety is paramount, with technicians tasked with maintaining a secure work environment by adhering to proper equipment usage, cleaning, and storage protocols. Compliance with local regulations and safety standards is essential in their operations.

Cultivators: Cannabis cultivators are responsible for growing cannabis plants, which are then harvested for various purposes. These plants' flowers are either sold directly to dispensaries for retail or to processors who turn them into cannabis oil for infused products. Additionally, nursery businesses create and sell seeds and young plants for cultivators to grow. Cultivators use their experience to oversee all aspects of cultivation operations, including planning, cloning, transplanting, feeding, pest control, monitoring environmental conditions, harvesting, and keeping records. They also lead sales and marketing efforts, either selling seeds and seedlings wholesale to other cultivators or selling cultivated cannabis to dispensaries or extraction facilities.

Packagers: Cannabis packagers play a key role in the final stages of cannabis product production. They assist in filling containers, applying labels, packaging, and storing finished cannabis-infused products. Utilizing their prior experience, they lead and supervise all aspects of packaging cannabis oil and infused products. This involves overseeing packaging strategy, scheduling, ensuring compliance with cannabis regulations and labor laws, managing staffing, and maintaining detailed records of all packaging activities.

If any of these jobs grab your attention, working in the cannabis industry might be your calling! The best way to stay on top of job opportunities available around the country is by creating a profile with us on Vangst.com. We are always posting new positions, and you can turn on notifications to let you know when a specific job/ location is open.