Skip to main content

Do you want to work in the fast-growing cannabis industry? Even if you have no direct experience working with cannabis, you can find a cannabis job that lines up with your skills or one that requires no experience at all.

If you want to be prepared for your first cannabis job, you need to understand the rules and terminology, network at industry trade shows, and apply regularly.

To start your cannabis career on the right foot, follow these tips. 

Understand Your Strengths

Consider your previous work experience, education, and skills before applying. Chances are that some of your soft and hard skills will align with a position in the cannabis industry.

For instance, friendliness, cannabis product knowledge, and previous retail experience can translate to a budtender position.

Even if you don't have any work experience or relevant job skills, there are many ways to build up your resume and cover letter.

Consider volunteering at local advocacy groups or working in a similar position outside of the cannabis industry to earn transferable skills for various cannabis careers.

Understand the Rules and Regulations of the Cannabis Industry

Cannabis rules and regulations vary by state and municipality. Rules may also vary between recreational and medical cannabis markets. Understanding more about your state’s cannabis regulations and restrictions is critical to getting hired.

Cannabis companies are looking for talented individuals who can remain compliant with state and local laws. 

Rules and regulations may include tracking requirements, ID checks, and other workplace rules. While cannabis businesses may provide initial training on these rules, it can't hurt to be prepared. One mistake can cost them their license.

Determine Employee Eligibility Requirements for a Cannabis Job

Depending on where you live, cannabis employee regulations and restrictions may vary.

For instance, there may be age requirements, background checks, work permits, and training requirements that you need to meet before working in the industry.

Connect with Industry Professionals

Local and national trade shows are great places to meet industry leaders and professionals. Having one-on-one conversations with business leaders in the industry and employees is a great way to network and find out about job openings.

Do your research on companies attending the event and choose 15-20 to research in-depth. Trade shows are an excellent time to ask about open positions and create connections for future job opportunities.

Check Job Boards for Cannabis Jobs

Apart from word-of-mouth, job boards are an excellent source of cannabis employment. Set up a job alert for all positions you’re interested in. You can search jobs by setting up job alerts to be one of the first to apply when you're spot opens up.

Job seekers should check Indeed, Monster, LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, and Craigslist for job openings.

Create a Resume and Cover Letter Catered in Cannabis Jobs

A resume and cover letter can showcase your previous experience, skills, and education in your own words. Keep them under one page each and check for spelling and grammar mistakes.

Sending a cover letter in with your resume gives you a leg up over the competition.

Check out these resources to create a resume and cover letter for the cannabis industry.

Get Certified at a Renowned Training Institute

While there is no standard certification for the cannabis industry, earning credentials from a renowned accredited training institute can give you the competitive advantage you need over other applicants with similar skills and experience.

Cannabis Training University provides students worldwide with an online-based curriculum covering cannabis cultivation, extraction, cooking, laws, careers, business, and medicine. Become a cannabis expert in under 12 weeks and get the job you deserve.

Ace the Interview

Give yourself plenty of time to prepare before the interview and consider the topics you are likely to touch on and ways you could present yourself as the best candidate for the role.

Research as much as you can about the cannabis company and your roles and responsibilities. Plan what you will be wearing to the interview and your body language.

Practice common interview questions in front of a mirror or with a friend.

Prepare a question or two about your potential employer on topics such as company work culture, how advancement opportunities work, and how they like their job.

Job interviews are also a great way to determine if you want to work for the company.

Preparing For Your First Day

The first day can be nerve-racking and exciting at the same time. It'll be the first time you meet your new coworkers and the pressure is on to create an excellent first impression and acclimate to the company culture.

Here are a few tips to prepare you for your first day on the job:

Dress Up

Dress codes can vary by company and position. Entry-level budtenders and trimmers may be dressed casually, while office work may require more formal attire.

You can observe how others dress on the first day and adjust accordingly.

Map Out Your Commute

Give yourself at least 15 minutes of extra time than you expect to account for any delays. Early morning commute traffic can make your commute longer than it usually would.

Arriving a few minutes early can give you more time to prepare for your first day.

Ask Questions

It's your new day, so it's reasonable that you will have many questions. Feel free to ask questions about your role and responsibilities and how best to communicate with your supervisor. Asking relevant questions shows you are engaged and excited about your new role.

Be Friendly

Make a good first impression by smiling and having a positive attitude. Take time to introduce yourself to everyone and use downtime to engage in small talk to get to know your team.

Making friends can create a team atmosphere and even help you move up in your career.

There are over 300,000 jobs in the cannabis industry. CTU trained me for one of them!

marijuana extraction course - Johanna Rose
Makes $24.50 @ THC +

Eat Lunch with Coworkers

Some bosses or employees offer to buy the new hire lunch. Don't hesitate to take them up on their offer. Eating together helps you learn more about your coworkers and them about you.

It can even become a regular thing, which can help solidify your friendship and advancement opportunities.

Be Aware of Your Body Language

Body language can give the impression that you are restless, nervous, or bored. Try to be engaged with your body, nodding in agreement, sitting or standing up straight, making direct eye contact, and being relaxed. 

Say Goodbye When You Leave

When you're done with your first day, thank your supervisor or coworker for showing you the ropes, and let your coworkers know you're heading out. 

Start Your Dream Career

Your dream cannabis career is within reach. Combine your passion for cannabis with a world-class cannabis education from CTU. Earn the cannabis industry credentials you need to stand out from the competition and advance through your career. 

Fred Hernandez - Cannabis industry expert writer
Fred Hernandez

Fred Hernandez is a highly accomplished and versatile writer, boasting an extensive background in the cannabis industry. With an in-depth understanding of various sectors including cultivators, processors, retailers, and brands, Fred's expertise spans across the entire cannabis landscape. As a prominent contributor to CTU, he consistently delivers insightful articles exploring the latest developments, news, and regulations shaping the cannabis industry. Whether it's delving into the intricacies of cannabis products, cannabis strain reviews, or providing comprehensive analyses of cannabis laws, or sharing expert insights on cannabis cultivation techniques, Fred's wealth of knowledge positions him as an invaluable writer and educator for all cannabis-related subjects.

Enroll Now