Careers in Cannabis is a comprehensive platform dedicated to employment and career opportunities in the cannabis industry. This specialized job portal is tailored to meet the unique needs of both job seekers and employers in the rapidly growing cannabis sector. Here's what makes Careers in Cannabis stand out:
Industry-specific job listings
The platform offers a wide array of job listings that are specifically in the cannabis industry. This ranges from roles in cultivation, extraction, and edibles production to positions in retail, management, and logistics.
Resource for job seekers
Whether you're new to the industry or looking to advance your career, Careers in Cannabis provides valuable resources. This includes tips on resume building, insights into different career paths, and advice on skill development.
Employer engagement
The platform connects employers directly with a pool of interested and industry-specific talent, making the recruitment process more streamlined and effective.
FitScore™ feature
A unique aspect of Careers in Cannabis is the FitScore tool. It's designed to match job seekers with roles that align with their skills and interests, making the job search more personalized and efficient.
Educational resources
Understanding the importance of knowledge in this evolving industry, Careers in Cannabis offers educational resources to help job seekers stay informed about industry trends, skills requirements, and regulatory changes.
Community + networking
The platform also fosters a sense of community among cannabis professionals, offering networking opportunities and connections within the industry.
Access to leading companies
Careers in Cannabis features job opportunities from some of the leading companies in the cannabis industry, giving job seekers access to top employers.
In summary, Careers in Cannabis is an all-encompassing hub for anyone looking to build or advance a career in the cannabis industry, offering job listings, educational resources, and tools to ensure both job seekers and employers find the right match.
What is engin™?
engin sciences inc. is the developer of engin, the AI-driven hiring platform built for emerging industries with specialized hiring needs. The Careers in Cannabis job board and resume builder are powered by engin.Who is Spark-e?
Spark-e is a cannabis career assistant, specialized in providing information, advice, and guidance for job seekers in the cannabis industry. Whether curious about career paths, industry information, skills needed, or job search strategies in the cannabis sector, Spark-e helps with tailored insights and support.
Entering the cannabis industry
What are the benefits of working in the cannabis industry?
The cannabis industry offers a range of exciting benefits for those looking to join this growing field. Here are a few key advantages:
An innovative + rapidly evolving industry
The cannabis sector is at the forefront of innovation, constantly evolving with new products, technologies, and business models. This dynamic environment can be exhilarating for those who enjoy staying ahead of trends and learning new things.
Diverse career opportunities
The industry spans various roles from cultivation, extraction, and edibles production to retail, management, and driving jobs. This diversity allows individuals to find a niche that aligns with their skills and interests.
Potential for growth
As the industry expands, there is significant potential for career advancement. Employees who start in entry-level positions can quickly move up the ladder as new opportunities arise in this rapidly growing market.
Passion-driven work
Many people in the cannabis industry are deeply passionate about the plant and its benefits. Working in an environment surrounded by like-minded individuals can be deeply fulfilling.
Impact on social change
The cannabis industry is at the center of significant social, legal, and medical conversations. Working in this field offers the opportunity to be part of important changes in societal attitudes and laws surrounding cannabis.
Educational opportunities
The industry requires continuous learning due to its newness and constant changes in regulations, technologies, and consumer preferences. This offers a continuous learning curve for personal and professional development.
Competitive compensation
As the industry matures, compensation levels are becoming increasingly competitive. There are opportunities for good salaries, especially in specialized roles.
Positive community impact
Many cannabis companies are committed to social responsibility, offering opportunities to contribute to meaningful initiatives that benefit communities.
These benefits make the cannabis industry an attractive and rewarding field to consider for your career path. Whether you're interested in the scientific, retail, cultivation, or business side of cannabis, there's likely a place for you in this diverse and growing industry.
How does working in cannabis differ from traditional industries in terms of work culture?
Working in the cannabis industry often presents a more progressive and dynamic work culture compared to traditional industries. It typically features a more casual and open-minded environment, encourages innovative thinking, and places a strong emphasis on passion for the product and industry. However, it also demands adaptability due to rapidly changing regulations and market trends.
What are the potential risks and challenges of working in the cannabis industry?
Working in the cannabis industry, while exciting and innovative, comes with its own set of potential risks and challenges.
Legal + regulatory uncertainty
The legal status of cannabis varies by region and is subject to change, creating challenges in compliance and potential legal risks.
Market volatility
The industry is still emerging and can be unpredictable, with fluctuating market demands and regulatory changes impacting stability.
Banking + financial issues
Due to its legal status at the federal level in some countries, like the U.S., cannabis businesses often face challenges in accessing banking services, impacting payroll and transactions.
Public perception
Despite growing acceptance, there's still a stigma associated with cannabis, potentially affecting social perceptions and professional relationships.
Compliance requirements
The industry is highly regulated, and staying compliant with all laws and regulations is crucial yet can be complex and resource-intensive.
Rapid industry changes
The fast-paced evolution of the cannabis industry requires continuous learning and adaptability, which can be challenging for some professionals.
Workplace safety
In cultivation and manufacturing, there are risks related to handling plants, chemicals, and specialized equipment.
Navigating these challenges requires staying informed about laws and regulations, being adaptable, and maintaining high ethical and professional standards. Despite these challenges, many find rewarding careers in this dynamic and growing industry.
Do I need a specific cannabis license to apply to a job?
Whether you need a specific cannabis license to apply for a job in the cannabis industry depends on the nature of the job and the regulations in the state or country where the job is located. Here's a general outline of how it usually works:
Employer initiates
The employer usually starts the process by applying for a cannabis employee license on your behalf. They'll need to provide your personal information and relevant employment details.
Background check
You'll likely need to undergo a background check conducted by the state or a designated agency. This check typically covers criminal history, financial records, and employment history.
Fees
In most cases, you'll be responsible for paying the application and licensing fees, which can vary depending on the state and license type.
Training
Some states mandate specific training courses for cannabis employees, covering topics like product knowledge, compliance, and responsible sales practices. Your employer might provide this training or require you to complete it independently.
Additionally, Career in Cannabis is partnering with Ganjier to support excellence in the cannabis industry through rigorous, multi-tiered cannabis trade certification, created and taught by the most respected names in the field, producing a new class of cannabis professional – the Master of Cannabis Products and Service.
Application review
The state regulatory agency will review your application and background check results. If approved, you'll receive your cannabis employee license, often in a physical card or badge form.
Renewals
Most cannabis employee licenses have expiration dates, typically ranging from one to two years. You'll need to renew your license before it expires, often involving a renewal fee and potentially a refresher training course.
Do I need prior cannabis experience to work in this industry?
No, prior experience in the cannabis industry is not always necessary to begin a career in this field. The cannabis industry is relatively young and rapidly evolving, which opens doors for individuals from various backgrounds. Here are a few points to consider:
Diverse backgrounds welcomed
Many roles in the cannabis industry can benefit from skills and experience gained in other sectors. For example, retail, customer service, agricultural, scientific, manufacturing, and administrative skills are highly transferable.
Entry-Level opportunities
There are various entry-level positions that don't require previous cannabis experience. Roles like budtending, cultivation assistant, or administrative positions can serve as gateways into the industry.
Training + education
Many companies provide on-the-job training. Additionally, educational courses offered by major universities and colleges, as well as community colleges and work training centers can equip you with industry-specific knowledge and skills.
A new class of cannabis professional – the multi-tiered cannabis trade certification Master of Cannabis Products & Service, taught by respected industry experts, can be obtained through Ganjier.
Transferable skills
Skills such as sales expertise, business management, marketing, compliance knowledge, and customer service are highly valued in the cannabis industry, regardless of where they were acquired.
Passion and enthusiasm
A genuine interest in cannabis, its uses, and the industry itself can be a significant asset. Employers often look for candidates who are passionate about the field and eager to learn.
Regulatory knowledge
Understanding the legal and regulatory environment of the cannabis industry in your area can be a big plus, even if you're new to the sector.
Networking
Engaging with the cannabis community through events, forums, and social media can help in gaining insights into the industry and finding job opportunities.
In conclusion, while previous experience in cannabis can be beneficial, it's not a strict requirement for many roles. Enthusiasm, transferable skills, willingness to learn, and a solid understanding of the product and industry can be just as valuable. For those interested in exploring opportunities in the cannabis industry, Careers in Cannabis provides a wealth of information and job listings tailored to this unique and growing field.
Are there age requirements to work in cannabis?
You must be 21 or older.
Does working in cannabis require a background check?
Yes, working in the cannabis industry usually requires a background check. This is particularly true for roles that involve direct handling of the product, such as cultivation, processing, and dispensary jobs. The background check is to ensure compliance with state and local regulations, which often prohibit individuals with certain types of criminal records, especially drug-related offenses, from working in the cannabis industry. Whether a background check is required for working in the cannabis industry depends on a few factors, including State Regulations and Role and Responsibilities and the specifics can vary depending on the location and the employer's policies.
Can a person get a cannabis job even if they have a felony record?
There are paths to get work in the cannabis industry, even for people who have made mistakes in their past.
Most states and companies that are "plant touching" have numerous hurdles for applicants with a felony conviction —but each state is different. (For example, in Michigan, as long as the felony is not related to a controlled substance, a candidate can still be accepted for employment.)
There are federally legal hemp / CBD companies and ancillary companies (ie. soil, lighting, nutrient brands, tech) in cannabis, that may be much more easy for starting an industry career path.
Here are helpful web articles for people with a felony record to navigate their way into the industry:
Ways to get into the cannabis industry with a felony on your record – EZ Hire Cannabis
Can a felon work at a dispensary? – THC University
Can you still get a job in the cannabis industry with a criminal record? – Rootwurks blog
What types of entry-level jobs are available in the cannabis industry?
In the cannabis industry, several entry-level jobs are available, including:
Budtender
Assisting customers in dispensaries, offering product advice and information.
Cultivation Assistant
Helping with the planting, nurturing, and harvesting of cannabis plants.
Trimmer
Preparing harvested cannabis for sale by trimming excess foliage.
Packaging Assistant
Packaging products for distribution while ensuring compliance with regulations.
Dispensary Receptionist
Managing front desk operations and customer relations in a dispensary.
Delivery Driver
Transporting cannabis products to customers or between facilities, complying with legal transport regulations.
What skill sets are employers looking for in cultivation?
In cannabis cultivation, employers typically look for individuals with skills in horticulture, plant biology, and agricultural techniques. Familiarity with cannabis plant care, nutrient management, pest control, and harvest methods is highly valued. Additionally, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and adherence to compliance and safety standards are essential in this role.
What skill sets are employers looking for in dispensaries?
In cannabis dispensaries, employers typically seek candidates with strong customer service skills, knowledge of cannabis products and their effects, compliance awareness with state and local cannabis regulations, sales acumen, cash handling experience, and the ability to use point of sale (POS) systems. Good communication and interpersonal skills are also highly valued.
What skill sets are employers looking for in manufacturing?
In cannabis manufacturing, employers often seek individuals with skills in production management, quality control, compliance with industry regulations, knowledge of extraction and processing techniques, attention to detail, and understanding of laboratory practices. Additionally, mechanical skills and experience with manufacturing equipment are valuable.
What are the jobs with the most easily transferable skills into cannabis?
Jobs with skills that are most easily transferable into the cannabis industry include:
Retail and customer service
Skills from retail, customer service, and hospitality can be seamlessly transitioned into dispensary roles like budtending or store management.
Healthcare + pharmaceuticals
Professionals from healthcare, especially those with experience in pharmacology or patient care, can find opportunities in patient education and dispensary operations.
Agriculture + horticulture
Skills in plant cultivation, soil management, and pest control are highly applicable in cannabis cultivation jobs.
Food + beverage industry
Experience in food safety, quality control, and production is transferable to edibles manufacturing.
Sales + marketing
Skills in sales, digital marketing, and business development can be adapted to various roles within the cannabis industry, especially in product promotion and business growth.
Quality assurance + lab work
Experience in laboratory settings and quality assurance roles is relevant for cannabis testing and product development.
Compliance + legal services
Knowledge of regulatory compliance, legal consulting, and policy interpretation is crucial due to the highly regulated nature of the cannabis industry.
These roles highlight the versatility of skills that can be adapted to the cannabis industry, reflecting its diverse nature and the breadth of opportunities available.
If I have a background in healthcare, how can I transition to cannabis healthcare jobs?
With a background in healthcare, transitioning to cannabis healthcare jobs involves leveraging your medical knowledge to focus on cannabis-based treatments. Gain a thorough understanding of cannabis products, their medicinal properties, and relevant regulations. Consider obtaining additional certifications or education in cannabis medicine, and explore roles in medical dispensaries, patient education, or as a cannabis-focused healthcare provider. Networking within the cannabis industry and staying updated on evolving research and laws are also crucial steps.
I worked as a cook in a restaurant. Can I apply to an edibles role?
Yes, your experience as a cook in a restaurant can be a great asset for transitioning into an edibles role in the cannabis industry. Skills in food preparation, recipe development, and kitchen management are highly relevant. To enhance your candidacy, consider gaining knowledge about cannabis infusion techniques and dosage control, as well as familiarizing yourself with the regulations specific to cannabis edibles.
What are the most in-demand jobs in the cannabis industry right now?
The most in-demand jobs in the cannabis industry currently include:
Budtenders and retail staff
Frontline employees who interact directly with customers, providing education and assistance in product selection.
Cultivation experts
Professionals skilled in growing and harvesting cannabis, including master growers and cultivation technicians.
Extraction technicians
Specialists in extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant for various product formulations.
Edibles producers
Culinary professionals experienced in creating cannabis-infused products.
Dispensary managers
Individuals who can oversee operations, manage staff, and ensure regulatory compliance in cannabis dispensaries.
Quality control analysts
Experts in testing and ensuring the quality and safety of cannabis products.
Delivery drivers
Personnel responsible for the distribution and delivery of cannabis products, particularly in areas with legal home delivery services.
These roles reflect the diverse nature of the cannabis industry and its growing needs as the market expands.
How do I prepare for a career shift to the cannabis industry?
Shifting to a career in the cannabis industry involves a few key steps:
Research
Understand the legal landscape, industry trends, and specific sector (like cultivation, retail, etc.) you're interested in.
Education
Gain knowledge about cannabis products, their effects, and industry-specific regulations. Consider relevant courses or certifications, such as those offered by Green Flower.
Network
Connect with professionals in the industry through events, social media, and forums to gain insights and discover opportunities.
Leverage your skills
Identify how your current skills can transfer to the cannabis industry. Tailor your resume to highlight these relevant skills.
Stay informed
Keep up with the latest industry news and changes in cannabis laws and regulations.
Explore opportunities
Use job platforms like Careers in Cannabis to find openings that match your interest and skills.
Be adaptable
Be prepared for the dynamic nature of the industry, requiring continuous learning and flexibility.
Job search
What jobs are available?
The Careers in Cannabis job board is trusted by major cannabis companies and is updated daily with hundreds of opportunities. Simply go to https://x.careersincannabis.com to start your search.
How do I keep informed about new job postings?
You can subscribe to Careers in Cannabis daily job alerts and get informed of new jobs when they appear in your vicinity. Simply go to https://x.careersincannabis.com/signup-jobalerts
Match me to a job!
Go to Careers in Cannabis and start applying for a job! During the application process, you'll be prompted to answer a series of questions that help determine your fitscore with a job. You only need to answer the quiz only once. After that, you'll be able to see how you match with most jobs on the job board.
Applying to jobs
How do I apply for a job?
To apply for a job on Careers in Cannabis, simply click on the APPLY button on the job description page and follow the flow. If you do not have an account on Careers in Cannabis, you will create one in the process, and then will be prompted to answer a series of questions that will help you understand how you fit with the particular job. At the end of the process, you will be led to a that recaps all the information that will be shared with the recruiter.
If you already have an account, just log in and you may apply in just one click if the job doesn't require any information you haven't already provided.
In both cases, you always have the opportunity to modify the information before you submit your application.
How do I create a profile or submit my resume?
You'll be prompted to create an account when you start applying to a job. You can also create an account by signing up for job alerts. Simply go to: https://x.careersincannabis.com/signup-jobalerts and select the topics you are interested in to start receiving job opportunities.
Do I need a resume to apply?
Depending on the company or the hiring manager, some jobs may require a resume. If there isn't one on file already, you'll be prompted to upload it. If there is one on file, you'll have the opportunity to reuse it or upload a new one.
What if I don’t have a resume?
No worries if you don't have a resume yet! Careers in Cannabis offers a resume builder that's tailored specifically for the cannabis industry, helping you craft a professional resume that can catch the eye of employers.
Simply go to: https://x.careersincannabis.com/get-engin-resume
Do I need a cover letter to apply?
Very few jobs on Careers in Cannabis require a cover letter, but this may happen sometimes, depending on the company or the hiring manager.
Why do I have to take a personality quiz to apply on some jobs?
Jobs that are powered by engin include a FitScore™ which calculates how well you fit for this job based on your soft and hard skills, and commute. This FitScore is computed from the answers collected when you apply to a job. The FitScore is simply there to guide you towards jobs that fit your unique set of skills. Not everyone has the patience and the focus required from a trimmer, or the empathy necessary to be a great budtender. Find your fit!
I get an error when I try to upload my resume in the application process.
In some rare occasions, depending on the combination of the mobile device and the browser, the resume may fail to upload properly. In such a case, please email your resume to support@careersincannabis.com and we will help you continue with your application.
I have applied for a job. Now what?
How can I know my application status?
When you apply for a job on Careers in Cannabis, the status of your application will be communicated to you directly by the hiring manager.
Can I contact the recruiter directly? Can I talk to anyone?
The recruiter will take the initiative to contact you directly about the application.
What are the 5 most common interview questions for an entry-level job in the cannabis industry?
For entry-level jobs in the cannabis industry, the interview questions might focus more on your general skills, enthusiasm, and potential to learn, alongside basic cannabis knowledge. Here are 5 potential questions you could encounter:
Tell me about yourself and what interests you about the cannabis industry.
This is a broad opener to showcase your personality, background, and genuine interest in the field. Highlight transferable skills like customer service, teamwork, or communication, and connect them to potential roles in the company.
What do you know about the different types of cannabis products and their effects?
Demonstrate your basic understanding of major product categories (flower, concentrates, edibles) and their potential uses or effects. You don't need to be an expert, but show willingness to learn and research.
Describe a situation where you faced a challenging customer or colleague and how you resolved it.
Scenario-based questions assess your problem-solving and communication skills. Focus on a positive outcome where you used active listening, empathy, and effective communication to find a solution.
What are your salary expectations for this position?
Be prepared with a research-backed range based on the job description, your location, and experience level. Show confidence while remaining open to negotiation and learning opportunities.
Why do you think you'd be a good fit for this specific company?
Research the company's mission, values, and unique qualities. Connect your skills and enthusiasm to their specific needs and demonstrate how you'd contribute to their success.
Other potential questions:
Are you willing to undergo a background check and/or drug test as required by our company policy?
Be ready to confirm your compliance with any necessary procedures.
Do you have any questions for us about the role or the company?
Showing active interest and inquiry demonstrates your engagement and preparation.
Remember, while cannabis knowledge is valuable, entry-level positions often prioritize your willingness to learn, strong work ethic, and positive attitude. Be yourself, showcase your transferable skills, and express your genuine passion for the industry, and you'll stand out from the crowd.
Education + training
Where can I learn more about the cannabis industry?
To learn more about the cannabis industry, explore the following resources:
Careers in Cannabis
Check Careersincannabis.com regularly to review job postings, as well as news and analysis.
Green Flower
The leading provider of comprehensive curriculum and training materials incorporated by educational institutions nationwide, Green Flower, offers educational programs and certifications in multiple aspects of the cannabis industry.
Ganjier
Created and taught by the most respected names in the field, Ganjier supports excellence in the cannabis industry through rigorous, multi-tiered cannabis trade certification, producing a new class of cannabis professionals – the Master of Cannabis Service™ certification.
Industry publications + websites
Reliable resources include MJBizDaily, Leafly, and High Times providing news, research, and analysis on the cannabis industry.
Podcasts + webinars
Listen to industry-specific podcasts like 'CannaInsider' or 'The Cannabis Investing Podcast' for insights and discussions by experts.
Networking events + conferences
Attend industry events, trade shows, and webinars to network with professionals and learn about current trends. Cannabis Business Times calendar
Social media + online forums
Platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit (subreddits like r/cannabis and r/weedbiz), and other cannabis-focused online communities can be valuable for information and networking.
These resources can offer a wealth of information about the cannabis industry, helping you stay informed and connected.
Where can I get an education in cannabis?
Green Flower is the leading provider of training and education in the cannabis industry. Stand out to employers and set yourself up for success! Is your resume getting overlooked? Earn a certificate and improve your fit score for relevant jobs.
How can I use Green Flower courses to improve my job prospects in cannabis?
When you successfully complete a course with Green Flower, you are granted a Credly badge. When you apply to a job on Careers in Cannabis, your badge boosts your fitscore and is added to your application for recruiters to see. Your badge is automatically retrieved from Credly when you create an account, either when applying to a job, or when signing-up for job alerts. But make sure you accept your badge first! The more badges you’ve obtained, the more proof of experience and personal development you’ve achieved around the cannabis industry. For many employers, more experience means higher starting pay!
Career progression + advancement
How do I know if I’m being paid a fair wage?
Cannabis wages vary by role type, seniority, geography, and business type generally falingl within a fairly standard range. And keep in mind:
- Become familiar with your state's minimum wage laws
- Based on your role, compare your wage to the average pay rates in your market
- Learn about what top companies are paying at sites such as Salary.com
What are the salary ranges for experienced professionals in the cannabis industry?
Working in the cannabis industry, like many other careers, can involve hourly pay, annual salaries, or contract work depending on the role.
BWorking in the cannabis industry, like many other careers, can involve hourly pay, annual salaries, or contract work depending on the role. Based on local markets, salaries for hourly workers in retail dispensaries, cultivation facilities, and manufacturing jobs can vary. The same is true for front line operations management as well as for general managers of larger operations, directors, and territory managers depending on the size and scope of responsibilities. Generally, cannabis employers are open to hiring people with a lack of personal cannabis experience or prior experience in the legacy market, so long as they are able to demonstrate a successful track record of managing similar responsibilities in another industry.
More info on salary and pay rate information can be found in our salary guide here..
More information on salary and pay rate information can be found in our salary guide here.
What skills and experience are necessary for entry-level positions?
For entry-level positions in the cannabis industry, certain skills and experiences can really give you an edge. While specific requirements can vary depending on the role, here are some general skills and experiences that are often valuable:
|
Basic knowledge of cannabis |
Customer service skills Many entry-level roles, like those in dispensaries, require strong customer interaction, making skills like communication, empathy, and patience crucial. |
| Attention to detail Whether it's adhering to compliance regulations in cultivation or precision in product manufacturing, being detail-oriented is a key skill. |
Adaptability The cannabis industry is rapidly evolving. Being adaptable and open to learning is essential. |
| Basic legal knowledge An understanding of the local cannabis laws and regulations is important, especially in roles related to sales or cultivation. |
Remember, different roles might require specific skills. For instance, cultivation jobs may need some basic understanding of plant care, while edibles jobs might benefit from culinary skills or food safety knowledge. The cannabis industry is young and rapidly evolving. Adaptability to change of processes and rules is a great asset.
What are the career paths available in the cannabis industry?
In the cannabis industry, you can explore several exciting career paths, including:
Dispensary jobs
Roles like budtender, dispensary manager, patient advisor as well as inventory associate, focusing on customer service and product knowledge.
Cultivation jobs
Involving growing and nurturing cannabis plants, from entry-level cultivators to master growers.
Extraction jobs
Specializing in extracting cannabinoids and terpenes for various cannabis products.
Edibles jobs
Focused on creating cannabis-infused food and beverages, requiring culinary skills.
Management jobs
Overseeing operations in cultivation facilities, dispensaries, or manufacturing plants.
Manufacturing jobs
In roles related to the production, packaging, inventory and quality control of cannabis products.
Driver jobs
Entailing the transportation and delivery of cannabis products, adhering to regulatory compliance.
Each path offers unique opportunities to build a career in this evolving industry.
Cannabis legal status
Is it legal to work in the cannabis industry where I live?
Cannabis laws are changing at a rapid pace across all 50 states. As of January 2024, here is the status of individual states:
FULLY LEGAL
Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington
RESTRICTED to medical purposes
Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin
FULLY ILLEGAL
Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, North Carolina, South Carolina, Wyoming
What are the states with cannabis licensing?
As of January, 2024, 19 states have cannabis licensing programs in place, covering both medical and adult-use cannabis: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. Additionally, two territories and the District of Columbia also have cannabis licensing programs: Guam, Puerto Rico and District of Columbia.
It's important to note that the types of licenses offered and specific requirements can vary significantly between states and territories. Therefore, it's crucial to research the licensing program in the specific state or territory where you're interested in working or operating a cannabis business.
Cannabis companies
What are the best cannabis companies to work for?
The best cannabis company depends on what YOU are looking for as a job seeker and the type of culture and vibe you are looking for. There are three main categories of companies in the cannabis industry:
Multi State Operator (MSO)
These are the largest, most corporate cannabis companies and they earned their name MSO by operating multiple facilities across multiple states and geographies. These companies operate mostly like traditional retail, agriculture, and consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies - and most of them are “vertically integrated” - which simply means they grow cannabis, process cannabis, and sell cannabis at retail - all in the same company. These companies are great for job seekers who are looking for a more structured, larger environment that will have a more plug and play employment opportunity and can also offer fast growth opportunities as there are a lot more role types in a vertically integrated company that allow you to grow your skills and career across multiple areas of the business. MSO’s have between 1,000 and 10,000 employees.
Single State Vertical Operator (SSO)
As the name suggests, these are a category of companies that operate within a single state or geography, but are also vertically integrated. Generally these are “mid market” companies with 300-3,000 employees but still offer a fully integrated business that grows, processes, and sells cannabis to consumers. These are a good fit for someone who wants to work for a business that is privately owned / not publicly traded, and is not too large but still offers stability and a larger environment to plug into with good career growth.
SMB / Small Business / Family owned / Micro Business
This category of business makes up 80% of the operators in cannabis, and there are over ten thousand individual operators across the country who grow, process, transport, or sell regulated, legal cannabis. Most often these businesses are just one part of the supply chain, like a retail store, and these are usually very locally and community focused businesses where the owner themselves often works hands on in the business with the team. Working at a small business or a microbusiness that is vertically integrated is a great opportunity for someone who wants to “wear multiple hats” and learn alongside owners and other leaders in the business. This is also great for a specialist grower or cultivator who wants to grow really high quality, craft cannabis products or a retailer who wants to create a bespoke, custom, community driven experience.
The Careers in Cannabis job board features jobs from a wide range of leading cannabis companies all across the US.
Who are the largest employers in the industry?
Based on recent data and reports, here are some of the top contenders for largest employers in the US cannabis industry as of January 2024:
Multi-State Operators (MSOs)
Curaleaf Holdings
With over 1,000 retail locations and 28 cultivation facilities across 19 states, Curaleaf boasts a sizable workforce.
Trulieve Cannabis Corp.
Focusing primarily on Florida, Trulieve operates over 170 dispensaries in the state and employs a significant number of people.
Green Thumb Industries (GTI)
While still smaller than Curaleaf or Trulieve, GTI has operations in several US states and Canada, making it a prominent employer.
Cresco Labs
With cultivation and retail operations in several US states, Cresco Labs has a notable workforce, concentrated in the Midwest and East Coast markets.
Verano Holdings
Operating over 160 retail locations in 13 states, Verano Holdings ranks among the larger employers in the MSO space.
Additional considerations
Regional players
Companies focused on specific states, like Trulieve in Florida or Acreage Holdings in Illinois, can still employ significant numbers in their respective regions.
Cultivation + processing companie
Though often less visible than retailers, large-scale cultivation and processing facilities like Acreage Pharms or PharmaCann employ a considerable workforce.
Ancillary Businesses
Companies providing ancillary services like packaging, testing, or software for the cannabis industry can also be sizable employers.
Remember, the landscape is constantly changing, and new players might emerge or existing ones expand, altering the picture. Additionally, company size isn't the only factor to consider when looking for a cannabis job. Explore factors like company culture, employee benefits, and alignment with your values and career goals.