The cannabis industry is growing at a breakneck pace. Over the years, we’ve watched it grow from a fringe market into a thriving global powerhouse. As more regions worldwide embrace legalisation, the industry is opening its doors to countless job opportunities that go far beyond the standard budtender positions and jobs on the retail front. But, like all jobs, there are pros and cons of working in the cannabis industry.
Whether you’re interested in working in a state-of-the-art concentrate lab, managing compliance in a rapidly changing legal landscape, driving cannabis products around within your state or country, or developing brand new cannabis strains and products, there’s a place for you here somewhere.
But, like any other industry, cannabis has its ups and downs. In this article, we’ll examine both the bright spots and the potential pitfalls of building a career in this dynamic field. By the end, you’ll have a well-rounded perspective on what it really means to work in cannabis, equipped with the insights needed to make an informed decision about whether this path is right for you.
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Pros of Working in the Cannabis Industry
There’s a lot to love about working in the cannabis industry. As the industry continues to expand across the world, more opportunities are available for those looking to get started. Whether you’re already involved in the industry or looking to dip your toes, the industry offers many advantages that make it a pretty attractive career choice. Below, we’re diving into some of the best parts of working in the cannabis industry.
Entry-Level Accessibility
If you want to work in the cannabis industry, one thing to get excited about is that it has very few barriers to entry. With low education requirements and experience levels, it’s very accessible to newcomers. In most places, even people with prior drug-related convictions can find good-paying work in the cannabis industry in some areas.
Unlike many fields that require years of specialised education or experience, the cannabis sector offers many entry-level positions open to people from many different walks of life. The entry-level jobs are similar to retail positions, as you’ll likely work as a budtender, trimmer, grammer, or packaging associate.
However, these jobs are good starting points if you want to build a career from the ground up. They’re also a great place to get a feel for the cannabis industry and how it works, as they provide hands-on experience. These roles allow you to learn on the job, gaining valuable experience and insights that can pave the way for advancement. It doesn’t matter if you’re fresh out of school, considering a career change, or simply eager to be part of something new and exciting; there’s a place for you.
Another thing to get excited about is that the cannabis industry is known for its inclusivity and willingness to invest in its workforce. Companies often provide on-the-job training and are open to promoting from within, meaning that even entry-level workers have a clear pathway to more specialised and higher-paying positions. For many, what starts as a job can quickly become a rewarding career, with opportunities to move up the ranks as the industry grows.
Just keep in mind that while the barriers to entry are low, certain roles may require you to meet specific criteria. You’ll usually need to be at least 18 years old to work with weed. In some places, you’ll need to pass a test to demonstrate your understanding of the compliance regulations in your area. Some places may even require you to pay for and renew a license that puts you on a registry, keeping your state or country in the loop that you’re working with cannabis. The good news is that these requirements are typically easy to meet and are designed to ensure that the industry operates safely and responsibly.
Variety of Roles Available
The cannabis industry is as diverse as it is dynamic, offering a wide range of roles that cater to different skills and interests. Whether you’re passionate about cultivation, product development, or regulatory compliance, there’s a place for you. Jobs range from hands-on positions in greenhouses and concentrate labs to business-focused roles in B2B sales, marketing, and compliance. The variety allows you to find a niche that suits your strengths but also offers significant specialisation and career growth opportunities as the industry continues to expand.
That said, if you already have a background in sales or marketing, for example, you might find excellent opportunities to apply your skills to the cannabis industry. On the other hand, if you enjoy driving, you could start your own courier service transporting cannabis products to businesses throughout your area. Some places even offer opportunities to be a cannabis delivery driver. Cannabis touches so many different sectors: retail, agriculture, sales, lab technology, pharmaceuticals, and so much more. If you’re interested in cannabis and already have specialised skills, there’s a place for you.
What’s more, the industry’s rapid evolution means that new roles are constantly emerging, providing fresh challenges and the chance to develop new skills. With ambition and hard work, there’s plenty of room for upward mobility and personal growth, making the cannabis industry a fertile ground for building a fulfilling career.
Rapid Industry Growth
We’ve mentioned it a lot now, but the fact that the cannabis industry is expanding all over the world is a good thing for career prospects. As more regions embrace legalisation, we’re seeing a surge in job openings across various sectors. This growth not only provides immediate employment opportunities but also suggests a strong potential for long-term career stability.
For those who thrive in fast-paced environments, the cannabis industry’s expansion offers the chance to be part of something new. This is an industry where you can break the mould a bit. Some of the greatest marketing campaigns have come from the cannabis industry with the unique laws against advertising. It also means developing new technologies to make the industry more efficient, which are often re-applied to other industries. For example, automated cannabis extraction machines developed for the cannabis industry may also be used in pharmaceuticals.
The pace of growth means that companies are constantly evolving, and with that comes the potential for employees to grow alongside them. Whether you’re starting in an entry-level position or stepping into a more advanced role, there’s room to move up as the industry continues to scale.
However, with this rapid growth comes the need for adaptability. The industry is still finding its footing, and with that comes a certain level of unpredictability. But for those willing to embrace change and seize opportunities as they arise, the cannabis industry is a great place to try new things and roll with the punches.
Dynamic and Innovative Workplaces
This industry is at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies and new methodologies, making it an exciting place to be if you’re passionate, creative, and innovative. With all of the research going into weed, there are opportunities to develop entirely new product types, streamline the cultivation technique, or create brand-new technologies that keep the cannabis industry cutting edge. If you’re into science and tech, cannabis offers more opportunities than some of the other sectors that may be growing stale.
More importantly, the culture in the cannabis industry is progressive and collaborative. You’ll often find yourself working alongside some of the world’s brightest people who share a passion for the plant and its potential to make a positive impact. This sense of shared purpose can lead to a highly engaging and fulfilling work environment where creativity is encouraged and new ideas are welcomed.
Opportunities for Advancement
The cannabis industry needs people if it wants to support its rapid growth. While there’s a lot of entry-level work, it’s almost a springboard. Those who work hard in an entry-level role are given first dibs on new, higher-paying positions as they open up. You might start as a budtender and find yourself in a management role. Alternatively, you may be the first person selected to learn how to work in and manage the grow or the lab by learning from your superiors.
More or less, if you’re ambitious and motivated, the industry offers clear pathways to move up the ranks, often more quickly than in more traditional sectors. This upward mobility is fueled by the industry’s need for skilled and knowledgeable leaders as companies expand and diversify.
With the right mix of dedication and skill, it’s possible to advance from entry-level positions to higher-paying, more specialised roles within a relatively short period. Additionally, as the industry matures, there are growing opportunities for employees to develop expertise in niche areas, such as product development, compliance, or operations, which can further accelerate career growth.
However, with these opportunities comes the expectation of adaptability and continuous learning. The industry is still defining itself, which means that roles and responsibilities can shift as companies grow and regulations evolve. But for those who embrace these challenges, the cannabis industry can be exceptionally rewarding.
Positive Impact on Health and Wellness
It feels really good to help people. For a lot of cannabis industry workers, one of the most rewarding parts of being involved with weed is making a difference for the people using your products. Whether you’re involved in the cultivation of high-quality plants, the development of therapeutic products, or the education of your medical patients or customers, your work has the potential to make a meaningful difference.
For many, this sense of purpose is a major draw to the industry. Knowing that the products you help create or sell can provide relief to those suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, or other conditions can be incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, working in an industry that promotes wellness often aligns with personal values and lifestyle choices, leading to a greater sense of job satisfaction.
Moreover, companies with strong cultures focused on health and wellness tend to promote a good work-life balance. This can mean more flexible working hours, wellness programs, and a supportive environment that values the well-being of its employees.
Cons of Working in the Cannabis Industry
Sure, there’s a lot to love about working with weed. But while the cannabis industry comes with a lot of perks, it isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Understanding these potential downsides is crucial for anyone looking to build a career in cannabis, as it allows for a more informed and balanced decision-making process. In this section, we’ll explore some of the common challenges those working in the industry face.
Lower Starting Salaries
One of the biggest concerns people have within the cannabis industry is how low the starting wages are for entry-level positions. Retail and trimming positions often have a higher employee turnover rate since the job can be frustrating and isn’t well compensated. Most starting positions within cannabis are somewhere around minimum wage. There are exceptions, of course. Especially if you have a degree or other specialised skills, but for entry-level roles, you’ll be making minimum wage at first.
However, there are silver linings. As the industry grows, there’s potential for wages to increase, especially for those who advance into specialised or managerial roles. Additionally, the vibrant and passionate work environment can provide a rewarding experience, making up for lower initial pay. For those who thrive in social, energetic settings, interacting with customers and being part of a community-focused industry can offer a sense of fulfilment beyond the paycheck.
Specialised Roles Require Expertise
While the cannabis industry offers a variety of roles, many specialised positions require a specific set of skills and expertise. For example, roles in greenhouses often need knowledge in plant science, which may require a university degree. Similarly, lab positions demand a background in chemistry or related fields, and compliance officers must be well-versed in regulatory standards, often requiring government registration. Couriers handling and transporting cannabis may also need special licenses depending on their area.
On the other hand, some of the background roles in marketing, sales, bookkeeping, or otherwise tend to require degrees, certifications, or prior work experience for your resume to stand out against the influx of other resumes looking to get involved in the cannabis industry.
This necessity for specialised knowledge can be a barrier for those without the required qualifications, potentially limiting mobility within the industry. However, for those with the necessary expertise or the willingness to obtain it, these roles offer significant opportunities for career growth and development. The demand for skilled professionals in these areas is high, and possessing the right qualifications can lead to higher-paying and more secure positions within the industry.
Regulatory Uncertainty
One of the most significant challenges in the cannabis industry is the ongoing regulatory uncertainty. The legal status of cannabis varies widely by region, and this inconsistency can create job insecurity for those working in the industry. Changes in legislation, whether at the local, state, or federal level, can have drastic effects on employment and business operations, making the future of specific roles unpredictable.
This regulatory instability can be a major drawback for those seeking long-term career stability. However, the industry’s adaptability and resilience offer a silver lining. Companies and professionals who can navigate these challenges successfully often find themselves in a stronger position as the market evolves. For those willing to stay informed and adaptable, there are opportunities to thrive even in the face of regulatory shifts.
High-Pressure and High-Stress Situations
Working in the cannabis industry can come with high-pressure and high-stress situations in most sectors. Retail workers are facing customers, while people in the greenhouse may be working with tight deadlines to ensure the dispensary has enough flower to go around. Sales and marketing, compliance, and other related jobs can also face tight deadlines and compliance demands. The need to meet production targets, adhere to strict regulations, and maintain high-quality standards can create a fast-paced and sometimes stressful work environment.
That sort of pressure is often amplified in newer businesses, startups or rapidly growing companies, where resources can be stretched thin, and employees may need to wear multiple hats to get the job done. It may affect work/life balance for the worse.
But despite the stress, this fast pace can be exhilarating for those who thrive in dynamic environments. The challenge of keeping up with the demands of a burgeoning industry can lead to significant personal and professional growth. Additionally, the collaborative nature of many cannabis companies can help alleviate some of the stress as teams work together to overcome challenges and achieve common goals.
Limited Training and Mentorship
Many companies, especially startups, operate with tight budgets and resources, which can result in insufficient training programs for new employees. This lack of structured learning opportunities can make it difficult for employees to develop their skills or advance within the company fully. It’s also a major contributor to the high employee turnover rate. Working with businesses that don’t have set principles for nurturing employees makes for a less rewarding experience. Many people leave roles at certain cannabis companies in favour of starting over with a company with mentorship and training opportunities.
On the other hand, the constant influx of new workers can strain the ability of companies to provide consistent training and mentorship. This can be a significant drawback for those entering the industry, as the absence of guidance and career development support can hinder long-term growth.
However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for self-starters. In an industry where formal training is often lacking, those who are proactive and take the initiative to learn on their own can stand out. Employees who seek out knowledge, whether through online courses, industry events, or networking, can carve out their own path and potentially rise faster within their roles.
Personal Use, Stigma, and Misconceptions
Despite the growing acceptance of cannabis, there remains a social stigma attached to working in this field. Some people may have preconceived notions about the legitimacy and professionalism of the industry, which can lead to awkward conversations or even judgement from others outside the industry— especially if you find cannabis isn’t the industry for you and try to leave.
Additionally, working in an environment surrounded by cannabis can increase personal consumption for some, which might be a concern for those trying to maintain boundaries between work and personal life. Long hours on your feet and the physical demands of specific roles can also take a toll, particularly in retail or cultivation positions.
The good news is that while the stigma and misconceptions persist, they are slowly diminishing as more people recognise the legitimate, professional nature of the industry.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the cannabis industry offers a unique and rapidly growing landscape filled with opportunities and challenges alike. There’s much to be excited about, from the ease of entry and diverse roles available to the dynamic work environments and potential for advancement. However, it’s essential to recognise the potential drawbacks, such as lower starting salaries, regulatory uncertainty, and the limited availability of formal training and mentorship.
For those considering a career in this field, weighing both the pros and cons is crucial. The industry’s rapid growth and evolving nature present risks and rewards, making it an exciting but sometimes unpredictable workplace. Whether you’re drawn to the industry for its innovation, its mission to improve health and wellness, or simply the chance to be part of something new, there’s no doubt that cannabis offers a unique career path.
Ultimately, success in the cannabis industry requires adaptability, resilience, and a passion for the plant and its potential. By understanding both the benefits and challenges, you can make a more informed decision about whether this industry is the right fit for you. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, so will the opportunities for those ready to grow alongside it.
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