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- Understand the different roles available in dispensaries, such as budtender, manager, and inventory specialist.
- Research and meet the requirements for dispensary jobs, including age, background checks, and certifications.
- Gain relevant experience through volunteering, internships, customer service roles, or cannabis education.
- Build a strong resume and cover letter tailored to the dispensary job you’re applying for.
- Apply for jobs through dispensary websites, cannabis job boards, and networking opportunities.
- Prepare for interviews by researching products, regulations, and customer service practices.
- Continue learning and growing in the cannabis industry to advance your career.
How to Get a Job at a Dispensary
The cannabis industry has been growing rapidly, offering a wide range of job opportunities in dispensaries across the country. Whether you’re passionate about the cannabis plant or just looking for a new career path, working in a dispensary can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
If you’re wondering how to get a job at a dispensary, you’re in the right place. This guide will break down everything you need to know to secure a job in a dispensary, from understanding the industry to nailing the interview.
Understanding the Dispensary Job Landscape
Before diving into the specifics of how to get a job at a dispensary, it’s important to understand the job landscape. Dispensaries are regulated businesses that sell cannabis products for medical or recreational use, depending on local laws.
These stores offer a variety of roles that range from customer service to management positions. The type of job you apply for will depend on your skills, experience, and interest in the cannabis industry.
Most dispensaries look for employees who have a passion for cannabis and customer service. Dispensary workers need to be knowledgeable about the products they sell, from flowers and edibles to concentrates and tinctures. Additionally, dispensary employees must be able to communicate clearly and help customers make informed decisions about their purchases.
Step 1: Know What Positions Are Available
The first step in how to get a job at a dispensary is to understand the different roles available. Dispensaries typically offer the following positions:
- Budtender: The most common entry-level role. Budtenders are responsible for assisting customers, answering questions, and providing product recommendations.
- Dispensary Manager: Managers oversee daily operations, including staff management, inventory, and ensuring the dispensary complies with state regulations.
- Inventory Specialist: These employees manage the stock of cannabis products, keeping track of inventory levels and making sure the dispensary has enough products to meet demand.
- Security Staff: Security personnel are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for customers and staff. They ensure that dispensary protocols are followed and help prevent theft or other incidents.
- Extraction Technician: This position requires a deeper understanding of cannabis processing. Extraction technicians work with cannabis plants to create concentrates and other products.
- Marketing and Sales: Some dispensaries also need employees for marketing roles, focusing on promoting the dispensary’s brand, running social media, and developing promotional campaigns.
Understanding which role you’re interested in is crucial. If you’re aiming for an entry-level position, such as a budtender, it’s essential to learn about the products and customer service skills. For managerial or specialized roles, such as extraction technician, you’ll need relevant experience or certifications.
Step 2: Understand the Requirements
Each job in a dispensary comes with its own set of requirements. While some positions may only require basic customer service skills, others may demand more specialized knowledge. Here are a few key requirements you should be aware of when thinking about how to get a job at a dispensary:
- Age Requirements: In most places, you must be at least 21 years old to work in a dispensary, as it deals with regulated products.
- Background Check: Since cannabis is still illegal under federal law, many dispensaries conduct thorough background checks. A criminal record, especially related to drug offenses, may prevent you from being hired.
- Experience in Customer Service: Dispensaries value employees with customer service experience. As a budtender, you’ll interact with customers regularly, so being comfortable in this setting is a plus.
- Knowledge of Cannabis Products: While you don’t need to be an expert right away, understanding cannabis products and their effects will help you stand out. Many dispensaries offer training, but a general understanding of cannabis is beneficial.
- State Certifications: Some states require dispensary employees to undergo specific training and obtain a certification before they can work. For example, in Colorado, dispensary employees must complete the MED (Marijuana Enforcement Division) training.
These requirements vary depending on the role and the state where the dispensary is located. Therefore, it’s essential to research the specific regulations and job expectations in your area.
Step 3: Gain Relevant Experience
Experience in the cannabis industry can significantly improve your chances of landing a job at a dispensary. While formal experience is not always necessary, any exposure to the industry or related fields can be beneficial. Here are a few ways to gain relevant experience when trying to figure out how to get a job at a dispensary:
- Volunteer Work: Volunteering at cannabis events or trade shows is a great way to get experience. You’ll learn more about the cannabis industry and make connections with industry professionals.
- Internships: Some dispensaries or cannabis companies offer internships. These positions allow you to learn the ropes and gain hands-on experience while working under more experienced staff members.
- Customer Service Jobs: If you don’t have experience in the cannabis industry yet, working in a retail or customer service job can be helpful. Many of the skills you develop, such as communication and problem-solving, transfer well to dispensary roles.
- Cannabis Education: Enrolling in courses or attending workshops about cannabis can also help you build a solid foundation. Many online programs offer certifications that can improve your resume and make you more attractive to dispensaries looking for knowledgeable staff.
By gaining relevant experience, you will be better prepared for the day-to-day duties at a dispensary. It will also show hiring managers that you are committed to the industry and have a genuine interest in cannabis.
Step 4: Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
A well-crafted resume and cover letter are essential when applying for any job, including dispensary roles. In your resume, focus on highlighting skills and experiences that directly relate to the position you’re applying for. Here’s how to optimize your application when thinking about how to get a job at a dispensary:
- Emphasize Customer Service: Dispensaries are customer-facing businesses, so any experience you have in customer service is valuable. Mention your ability to work with people, solve problems, and manage challenging situations.
- List Relevant Skills: Include skills that are useful in dispensary roles, such as product knowledge, attention to detail, and familiarity with cannabis regulations.
- Tailor Your Cover Letter: Personalize your cover letter to the dispensary you’re applying to. Show enthusiasm for their brand and explain why you’re a good fit for their team. Address how your skills and experience align with the job requirements.
- Include References: If possible, provide references from previous employers or people who can vouch for your character and work ethic. A good reference can go a long way in proving your reliability.
Having a strong resume and cover letter will help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview.
Step 5: Apply for Jobs
Now that you’ve prepared your resume and cover letter, it’s time to start applying for jobs. Dispensaries often post job openings on their websites, social media pages, and cannabis-specific job boards. Here are some tips on how to approach the application process:
- Research Dispensaries: Take the time to research dispensaries in your area. Some dispensaries may have a specific culture or atmosphere, so applying to places that align with your values and personality can help you find a better fit.
- Check Job Boards: Websites like Weedmaps, Leafly, and Indeed often list cannabis-related job openings. Use these platforms to search for dispensary jobs near you.
- Network: Networking is an effective way to hear about job openings. Attend local cannabis events, connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, and join cannabis-related groups to expand your network.
- Submit Applications: Follow the application instructions carefully. Many dispensaries require you to apply online, while others may ask for in-person applications. Always double-check for any special instructions before submitting your application.
Once you’ve submitted your applications, be patient. It may take time for dispensaries to process applications and schedule interviews, but don’t be discouraged.
Step 6: Prepare for the Interview
If you get an interview, congratulations! This is your chance to showcase your knowledge, skills, and passion for working in a dispensary. Here’s how to prepare for an interview when thinking about how to get a job at a dispensary:
- Know the Products: Be prepared to talk about cannabis products, their effects, and how they are consumed. Even if you’re not an expert, showing that you’ve done your research will impress hiring managers.
- Be Ready to Discuss Regulations: Understanding cannabis laws and regulations is essential for dispensary employees. Make sure you’re familiar with local laws and any specific rules that dispensaries must follow.
- Demonstrate Customer Service Skills: Since customer service is a huge part of working in a dispensary, be ready to provide examples of how you’ve handled customer interactions in the past.
- Ask Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions about the dispensary and its culture. This will show that you’re genuinely interested in the position and the company.
By being well-prepared, you’ll increase your chances of impressing the interviewer and landing the job.
Step 7: Continue Learning and Growing in the Industry
Once you’ve secured a job at a dispensary, it’s important to continue learning and growing in the cannabis industry. Stay up-to-date on new products, trends, and regulations to maintain your expertise. Additionally, if you’re looking to advance in the dispensary, consider taking on additional responsibilities or seeking out opportunities for career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the related questions people also ask:
What qualifications do you need to work at a dispensary?
To work at a dispensary, you typically need to be at least 21 years old, pass a background check, and, depending on the state, complete any required cannabis certification or training programs. Customer service experience and knowledge of cannabis products are also helpful.
How much does a dispensary job pay?
Salaries for dispensary jobs vary based on location and role. For example, budtenders typically earn between $12 to $18 per hour, while dispensary managers or specialized roles, like extraction technicians, may earn more, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually or more.
Do dispensary jobs require experience?
While experience in the cannabis industry is helpful, many dispensaries are open to hiring individuals with customer service experience or a strong passion for cannabis. Entry-level roles like budtender may not require previous cannabis experience but can benefit from knowledge of products.
Can you work at a dispensary with a criminal record?
It depends on the nature of the criminal record and local laws. Many dispensaries perform background checks, and certain criminal offenses, particularly those related to drugs, may disqualify you. However, some states and dispensaries are more lenient, particularly if the offense was minor or occurred a long time ago.
What does a budtender do at a dispensary?
A budtender assists customers in selecting cannabis products based on their preferences and needs, provides product recommendations, answers questions about the products, and ensures customers are following the dispensary’s guidelines.
How can I get cannabis certification to work at a dispensary?
In some states, dispensary employees are required to complete state-approved cannabis certification programs. These programs typically include training on cannabis products, laws, and regulations, and can be completed online or in person.
What should I wear to an interview at a dispensary?
Dressing professionally is always a good idea, but since dispensary jobs often have a more casual atmosphere, smart casual attire is appropriate. Avoid overly casual clothes like t-shirts or sneakers, and aim for a clean, neat appearance that shows you take the interview seriously.
Is there room for growth in a dispensary job?
Yes, many dispensaries offer opportunities for growth. Starting as a budtender or in another entry-level role, you can advance to positions such as dispensary manager, inventory specialist, or even take on specialized roles in extraction or marketing.
What’s the best way to prepare for a dispensary job interview?
To prepare for a dispensary job interview, research the dispensary, understand the products they sell, and familiarize yourself with local cannabis laws. Be ready to discuss your customer service experience and show your passion for the cannabis industry.
The Bottom Line
Securing a job at a dispensary requires a combination of research, experience, and preparation. Whether you’re aiming for an entry-level role like a budtender or a more specialized position, understanding the industry, meeting job requirements, and building a strong application will set you up for success.
By following the steps outlined in this guide on how to get a job at a dispensary, you’ll be well on your way to finding a fulfilling career in the growing cannabis industry. Stay focused, stay passionate, and continue learning, and you’ll be on the path to a rewarding job at a dispensary in no time.