Cannabis Jobs that Pay Well
The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing in the United States. As of January 2020, there are over 240,000 full-time equivalent jobs supported by legal cannabis, representing a 15% increase from the previous year. As more states legalize the plant for medical and recreational use, the number of jobs will continue to increase. If you’re looking for a new job, the industry has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best paying cannabis jobs available.
Dispensary COO or CFO
As a dispensary COO (chief operations officer) or CFO (chief financial officer), your duties may include such things as:
- Overseeing harvesting and processing
- Analyzing operations to improve efficiency
- Developing the budget
- Managing the accounting department
You don’t necessarily need prior cannabis experience to hold this position, so long as you have experience in a similar role for another company. COOs and CFOs can make upwards of $125,000 a year.
Dispensary Manager
Dispensary managers oversee the daily operations of their store. They’re responsible for communicating with vendors, managing store inventory, handling product returns, and hiring and training budtenders. What makes the job more challenging than managing other types of stores is that you also need to make sure that your dispensary is always abiding by state laws and regulations.
Salaries range for managers based on various factors, such as your education, your experience, and the size of the store. On average, you can make around $75,000 a year.
Consultant
Cannabis consultants combine their knowledge of laws and regulations with backgrounds such as accountants or lawyers to offer advice to aspiring growers and dispensary owners. Since they know the ins and outs of the industry, they can help others obtain the necessary licenses, offer legal advice, or help with bookkeeping and taxes. Consultants can earn as much as $100,000 or more a year.
Master Grower
As a master grower, you oversee the entire growing process. You are in charge of the daily running of the farm, keeping meticulous records, and making the final decisions regarding everything that happens on the farm. You can earn between $80,000 to $100,000 a year or more.
Extraction Technician
Extraction technicians are the experts who extract cannabinoids, terpenes, and other essential components of the cannabis plant to create high-potency extracts and concentrates. They use solvents such as butane and CO2 and work to create consistent, high-quality products. The job is riskier than others and requires scientific knowledge, but you can earn between $75,000 and $125,000 annually.
Edibles Chef
Edibles chefs do more than just cook or bake delicious edibles. While taste matters, so, too, do the effects of the products they’re creating. You need to have an understanding of how to properly infuse foods such as brownies, cookies, gummies, lollipops, and more so that they’re legal and enjoyable.
Chefs make more than just sweet treats. They also use cannabis-infused butter and oil to concoct all manner of creative dishes. While some make around $40,000 to $50,000 a year, others can make upwards of $100,000.
Cannabis Jobs for All Skillsets
The cannabis industry has numerous jobs available for people of all skill and experience levels. If you’re looking for a new job and enjoy cannabis, this industry may be for you.
