Discover the Top Rhode Island Cannabis Jobs

In 2006, the Rhode Island approved medical pot through legislative action and in 2022 finally was able to approve recreational cannabis.

Rhode Island passed the Medical Cannabis Act in 2022. The act allows adults 21 and over to posses, grow, and purchase cannabis.

Requirements to Work in the Cannabis Industry

Interested in working in the state's developing industry? In order to work in the cannabis industry in Rhode Island you must meet certain criteria.

Here are the general requirements and steps to be eligible to work in the cannabis industry in Rhode Island:

• At least 21 years of age
• A resident of the state
• Pass a criminal background check, no drug related felony charges in the last 10 years.

Entry-level pot jobs range from budtenders to trimmers to ancillary jobs in a variety of sectors. Most companies look for applicants with at least one year of relevant work experience. Two years is preferred. As a weed worker, you must have a thorough understanding of the state laws governing medical pot.

Don’t have the work or education experience necessary to make the cut? Enroll in a weed training program. Completing an education program gives you the tools needed to succeed in this industry. Adding weed education to your resume isn’t required, but shows your passion and commitment to the patients.

For more information about online cannabis training in Rhode Island, checkout Cannabis Training University's cannabis school.

Most Popular Rhode Island Cannabis Jobs

The cannabis job market in Rhode Island has experienced substantial growth, particularly after the state legalized recreational cannabis in 2022.

As of 2024, Rhode Island had about 1,649 cannabis-related jobs, reflecting a 45% increase from the previous year.

The industry offers various employment opportunities across different sectors, including cultivation, processing and production, and retail. Notable job roles include grower assistants, trimmers, budtenders, and various managerial positions. 

Dispensary Jobs

Rhode Island has a total of 33 dispensaries throughout the state, providing numerous job opportunities.

Budtender

Budtenders play a crucial role in creating a positive customer experience and ensuring that clients leave with the products best suited to their needs.

They are responsible for helping customers choose the right cannabis product based on preference, tolerance, level, and their needs.

Bartenders ensure all sales comply with state and local laws. They manage stock levels and assist with restocking shelves.

Having experience in retail and/or customer service is beneficial when applying for a budtender job.

Average pay: $15-$17/hour

Dispensary Manager

A dispensary manager is responsible for the day to day operations of the business, ensuring that it runs smoothly and complies with all regulations.

Dispensary managers are in charge of hiring, training, and supervising dispensary staff. They also manage all financial aspects of the operation including daily sales, sales reporting, budgeting, and cash handling.

A dispensary manage plays a crucial role in the overall success of the dispensary.

Average pay: $50,000-$70,000/annually

Security Guard

A security guard in a cannabis dispensary is responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment for customers, staff, and inventory.

The main role of a security guard at a dispensary is to check I.D.'s to ensure all customers are of legal age to enter the dispensary.

Responding promptly to any incidents or emergencies, such as medical situations or conflicts is another important role they play.

Having a background in security or law enforcement can be beneficial.

Average pay: $17-$20/hour

Cultivation Jobs

The state has about 55 licensed cannabis cultivators. While the growing capacity is less than the demand (at the moment), that may soon change. Here are just some of the jobs in pot farming.

Marijuana Grow Operator

Grow operators oversee the entire grow operation. They handle hiring workers for different marijuana jobs along with managing the grow site.

They are responsible for ordering supplies, training staff, and budgeting the operation.

The compensation can also be influenced by factors such as the size of the grow operation, the specific responsibilities of the role, and the overall demand for skilled managers in the state's growing cannabis industry.

Average pay: $65,000-$75,000/annually

Grow Assistants

Grow assistants play a vital role in supporting the cultivation process in cannabis grow operations. They make sure plants receive the proper amount of water and nutrients according to the growth stage and specific requirements.

They regularly inspect plants for signs of pests or diseases and apply treatments as needed.

They also assist in the harvesting process, which includes cutting plants, trimming buds, and preparing them for drying and curing.

Cannabis grow assistants are essential in ensuring the smooth operation of cultivation facilities, contributing to the successful growth and production of high-quality cannabis plants.

Average pay: $19-$25/hour

Bud Trimmers

A bud trimmer will usually work in a grow site. They help harvest weed by trimming the leaves and making sure that the marijuana plants are healthy.

Bud trimmers carefully cut away excess leaves and stems from cannabis buds using scissors or specialized trimming tools. They make sure only quality bud makes it to post production.

Average pay: $13-$16/hour

Processing Jobs

Cannabis processing jobs are essential to converting the raw flower into a wide variety of products. Processors transform the raw material into weed extracts, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Here are a few of the most in-demand processing jobs.

Packager

Cannabis packagers are responsible for operating packaging equipment. They weigh, package, and label products while maintaining accurate records.

They must maintain a clean and organized work environment. While no experience with weed is required, knowing your pot can give you a leg up in the application process.

Extraction Technician

Extraction technician jobs aren’t exactly entry-level, but they are within reach for many applicants. Technicians must operate extraction equipment and work with flammable solvents.

Previous laboratory experience and a science degree are preferred. Operators must work with raw material and convert it into oils and other extracts for sale.

Ancillary Jobs

If you’re not too keen on working with pot directly, why not work for an ancillary weed company. Ancillary companies provide supplemental services ranging from legal help to marketing efforts.

Pot shops and growers in the state rely on these companies to support key business activities.

Rhode Island Cannabis Job Training

No matter what previous work experience you have, there’s bound to be a pot job for you. Whether that’s in your home state of Rhode Island or elsewhere, weed jobs are on the rise. For the best chance of getting hired, it’s important to have a clear grasp of important weed topics. Trust CTU’s online cannabis training to get you there.

Need help to build your resume and cover letter? Check out our resume and cover letter job guides for applicants.

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.