So, you’re thinking about pulling the trigger and working in a dispensary? Good call! The cannabis industry is one of the most exciting places to be right now, and it’s only getting better. Working in a dispensary comes with a lot of perks— passionate customers, a team that feels like a family, and obviously, working with weed. But there’s so much more to it than that. 

In this article, you’ll get the inside scoop on what makes dispensary life tick. We’ll break down what it’s like to work in a dispensary, covering the good, the bad, and the awesome. From budtending to management, there are a lot of roles to explore, and each one comes with its own set of perks and challenges. Sure, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—every job has rough patches. But the cannabis industry is growing fast, and with that growth comes a ton of opportunities for those willing to dive into the deep end headfirst. 

What Jobs Are Available at Dispensaries?

Before we jump into what it’s actually like to work with weed, it helps to understand all of the roles available to you if you choose to work in a dispensary. 

In the case of vertically-integrated dispensaries (the ones where everything is done under one roof), there are a lot of people working with weed directly before it can be sold to customers. Back-of-the-house responsibilities involve growing, drying, and trimming cannabis, making concentrates, or manufacturing edibles. Then packaging them and including any compliance-related info, uploading them into cannabis tracking software, and into the point of sale so the front-of-the-house workers can sell it to people. Back-of-the-house is also usually responsible for accepting shipping manifests from other companies and prepping them for sale in the same ways they would for in-house products. 

The front-of-the-house is responsible for ensuring a positive customer experience. They’ll work on visual and digital displays, make sure the dispensary is clean and presentable, and set up ambient music and lighting. They might also put out snacks and refreshments if there’s a line of customers. Their job is to make sure the customer makes an informed decision about the products they can purchase, so part of the job description includes smoking weed yourself. All the while, they keep a level head, have excellent attention to detail, and know how to manage cash and credit card transactions and operate a point-of-sale system and compliance-related tracking info. 

Jobs You Can Do Within a Dispensary 

Working in a dispensary is a unique experience, blending retail vibes with a deep dive into cannabis culture. You can take on various roles in a dispensary, and each one offers its own slice of the action. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Budtending: Budtenders are the face of the dispensary, guiding customers through product selections, answering questions, and sharing personal recommendations. It’s a social job that requires good communication skills and a genuine love for cannabis. Budtenders are usually also responsible for keeping the dispensary clean during the day. Most people start working at a dispensary as a budtender. As long as you’re 21 and have some retail experience, you’ll usually have no problem getting a job as a budtender. Even if you don’t have retail experience, you can still apply to be a budtender since these jobs are almost always available.

• Management: Running a dispensary involves a lot of moving parts. Managers oversee daily operations between front-of-the-house and back-of-the-house workers. They also usually handle inventory and payroll or invoicing, ensure compliance with local and state or country regulations, keep the team motivated, and help keep the dispensary clean and organised. It’s a role for those who like to juggle tasks and keep things running smoothly. Managing a dispensary requires prior management experience, though if you’re a stellar budtender, there’s a good chance you can grow into a management position at your company. 

• Ownership: Owning a dispensary is a whole different ball game. It involves understanding the market, navigating complex regulations, and building a brand. The owner is in charge of the managers, as well as any other ancillary services, like marketers, salespeople, interior designers, etc. More or less, they have the biggest and final say on everything that the dispensary is or can be. But for those with an entrepreneurial spirit, it’s a chance to shape the cannabis scene. Ownership requires a lot of money upfront, thanks to the licensing fees many dispensary owners face. But it’s definitely a dream come true if you find yourself obsessed with working in a dispensary. 

Vertically-Integrated Dispensary Jobs

While most standard dispensaries only sell cannabis and products grown or made by other companies, some dispensaries are part of larger operations that do everything all under one roof. Vertically-integrated dispensaries grow, process, and sell their own products. That means more opportunities in cultivation, trimming, concentrate manufacturing, and edible making. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how your favourite products come to life.

• Trimming: For people who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, trimming is another excellent entry-level job that requires virtually no training or prior experience. As an added bonus, these jobs are also constantly becoming available. Trimmers are responsible for trimming the water leaves off of cannabis plants, breaking them down for drying or for making fresh-frozen concentrates. Trimmers are also responsible for trimming buds after they’re dry and before they hit the shelves. This is an excellent job if you like working with plants and enjoy sitting and focusing on one thing at a time. Most trimmers will sit in a circle while working and chat with coworkers or listen to music.

• Cultivation: For those who love working with plants, cultivation is a very hands-on role that allows you to work in a garden all day. It’s all about nurturing cannabis plants and ensuring they’re harvested perfectly. That means watering them, trimming them, keeping an eye on pests, and knowing what to do if the plants display signs of illness or nutrient deficiencies. Becoming a cultivator usually requires a degree in an agricultural science or a long-standing history of a successful home garden. But don’t you worry. Starting as a trimmer can open doors into cultivation the longer you work. 

• Concentrate Lab Technician: If you’re into the science side of things, making concentrates could be your jam. It involves extracting cannabinoids from the cannabis your dispensary grows to create products like wax, shatter, and oils. This job is a bit hard to get your hands on, though. It requires a degree and other formal training, and most dispensaries that have people working in the lab stick with one or two lab techs for the long haul. 

• Concentrate Grammer: Much like trimming, weighing out the concentrates and placing them in their containers is another entry-level job at a dispensary that is almost always available. The job is pretty easy and laid back, and most will allow you to chat with your coworkers, watch movies, or listen to music while you work. 

• Edible Making: Got a knack for the kitchen? Edible makers craft everything from gummies to baked goods, ensuring consistent dosing and delicious flavours. These kitchens work with food-grade ingredients along with the concentrates provided by lab technicians. This job requires a good background in science and math, but it’s a blast to try new things and create new culinary creations for your dispensary. 

What It’s Like Working in a Weed Dispensary

Now that that’s out of the way let’s get down to the dirty details. Dispensaries are a lot like other retail stores. People work in the front of the house selling weed to people directly, and then people work in the back of the house getting the products organised and ready for sale.

What makes working at a dispensary special, however, is the environment. Dispensaries are typically laid-back, with a team passionate about weed, and as a result, share many of the same interests you do. It’s a fast-paced and fun atmosphere where you constantly interact with people who love talking about their favourite strains, products, and other hobbies outside of work. 

And yes, using cannabis is part of the job. Knowing your product is key, whether you’re working with customers directly or making magic happen in the back. That means firsthand experience, knowledge, and comfortability. It’s one of the perks that make working in a dispensary a unique career choice.

Whether you’re on the front lines as a budtender, managing the shop, or getting your hands dirty with cultivation, working in a dispensary is an awesome, laid-back experience with plenty of opportunities to grow. Let’s take a closer look at all of the perks, benefits, and experiences you can enjoy while working at a dispensary. 

Plenty of Room for Growth and Exploration

One of the best parts about working in a dispensary is the room for growth. The cannabis world is expanding rapidly, and plenty of opportunities exist to climb the ladder or switch gears entirely. Even if you start at the very bottom, there are many jobs to choose from within a dispensary itself. But you can also take that insider industry knowledge and pursue other things. You can get into investing, marketing, sales, and more. Tons of different industries interlock with cannabis, so there’s always plenty you can do with your dispensary experience. 

Starting as a budtender, grammer, or trimmer is a solid entry point. It’s where you get to learn the ropes and deepen your knowledge of cannabis products. But if staying there isn’t your end goal, don’t worry—there are plenty of paths to explore.

Most dispensaries promote from within, so if you’re good at what you do, there’s a clear path to management or other roles within the company. If you get tired of trimming or gramming and always show up for your shifts, there’s a good chance they’ll give you more responsibilities, allowing you to smoothly transition from one role to the next and make more money. By the end of your experience at a particular dispensary, you could have worked in every role, allowing you to take that knowledge anywhere. 

Since dispensaries care deeply about the success of their best employees, they often offer training programs and certifications, helping you to further your expertise and stay ahead of the curve at all times. It enables you to learn more to earn more, but it also ensures the dispensary has a solid staff that will keep customers excited to return. 

The skills you gain in a dispensary can transfer to other areas in the cannabis industry. You might find your calling in cultivation, working directly with the plants. Or maybe concentrate manufacturing or edible making piques your interest. Working in a dispensary can be a springboard to even broader careers within the industry. There are countless ways to leverage your dispensary experience, from marketing and sales to compliance and advocacy. 

You could end up working for a larger cannabis company, helping to shape industry standards and policies in new markets. Who knows, one day, you might even own your own piece of the pie. The cannabis industry is still in its early stages, which means there’s a lot of room for innovation and growth, which is an exciting perk! 

The Chance to Forge Lifelong Connections

One of the standout perks of working in a dispensary is the sense of community and camaraderie you’ll find. You get to be surrounded by people who are just like you every single day of the week. 

In a dispensary, you’re surrounded by people with an upbeat, positive, and relaxed attitude. These are people who go against the grain and almost always enjoy the same things you do—cannabis, music, games, movies, and more. It’s easy to bond over shared interests and experiences, making the dispensary feel more like hanging out with your friends than going to work. 

Most dispensaries I’ve worked with describe themselves as a family. Yes, families fight sometimes, and there will be petty squabbles here and there. You’re also working with weed— and using it. So, sometimes mistakes are made, and challenges come up due to those mistakes. But through that, you earn friends for life. The point is that your vibe attracts your tribe at a dispensary. Your positive energy will attract like-minded people who will become your support system, both at work and outside of it.

Building connections with coworkers who are just as passionate about cannabis as you are creates a strong sense of community. You’re all there for the same reason: to share the love of cannabis and help others find the right products for their needs. This shared mission fosters a tight-knit environment where teamwork and collaboration come naturally.

But the best part is that your customers are usually pretty cool, too. You’ll also get to build relationships with regular customers who trust your recommendations and enjoy chatting with you. These interactions can be gratifying and fulfilling. In some cases, they even come with extra tips. 

Honestly, one of the best parts of working in a dispensary is the friends you get to make along the way. That community is a whole different world. It’s a place where you can be yourself, share your passion, and connect with others who feel the same way. Through these connections, you’ll find support, friendship, and a sense of belonging beyond the typical working-in-a-cubicle experience. 

Access to Incredible Perks 

Even if you’re not a people person and aren’t really looking to start your own weed empire down the road, some pretty stellar perks go beyond just having a cool job. One of the most obvious benefits is access to exclusive industry perks and discounts. 

As new products become available for sale in your dispensary, you’re going to get handed samples left and right free of charge, so you’re more informed about what you’re selling to customers. You’ll also get first dibs on new products and accessories before they hit the shelves. When your dispensary hosts pop-up events from sales reps from other companies, like concentrate manufacturers or edible companies, they usually hook you up with free merch to help them sell their products in your dispensary. 

Speaking of which, another cool aspect is the potential for networking. You’ll meet a wide range of people, from ordinary people coming to buy edibles that grow their own weed like the pros to other industry professionals, including salespeople and marketers. These connections can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations, furthering your career in ways you might not have expected. You’ll practically be given new opportunities by simply chatting and getting to know people. It’s not always about what you know— it’s about who you know. 

On the other hand, most dispensaries offer opportunities for certifications and skill refinement, so you’re not just getting a paycheck—you’re investing in your future by working at one. You’ll also have access to healthcare and, in some cases, dental and vision. 

Employee discounts are another huge plus. While they range from dispensary to dispensary, most stores offer great discounts so you can try products, making you better at customer service. A lot of dispensaries allow you to purchase products at wholesale cost plus tax, making them a fraction of the price customers pay. 

Ultimately, however, the work environment is the biggest perk to most people. Dispensaries are generally relaxed, focusing on creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. You’ll be part of a team that’s passionate about what they do and shares many of your interests, making it a fun and engaging workplace. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about helping customers find the right products and seeing their positive impact on their lives.

Ready to Work in a Dispensary?

That’s all there is to it! If you like what you’re seeing here and know you can manage in a fast-paced, customer-centric retail experience, then working in a dispensary is going to be perfect for you. 

But there are a few things you should know before you apply. 

First off, let’s talk about licensing and qualifications. Depending on your state or country, there are specific requirements you’ll need to meet to work in a dispensary. Usually, it involves running a criminal background check and requires you to be 18 or older. In some areas, you may need specific training or certifications to stay compliant with local regulations. Once you have that, you may need to apply for a license and register with the cannabis authority in your area before you can work in a dispensary. 

Cannabis as an industry also comes with its own set of quirks. One thing that’s different from many other jobs is the cash payments. Because of federal regulations, many dispensaries operate on a cash-only basis. This can mean handling large amounts of cash and ensuring strict compliance with security protocols. 

Compliance is another big part of the job. Dispensaries must follow strict regulations regarding everything from product labelling to transaction tracking. Staying on top of these regulations is crucial to keeping the business running smoothly and legally. That said, make sure you deeply understand the laws in your area before applying.

Beyond the legal stuff, certain personality traits will help you thrive in a dispensary environment. Being personable and friendly is key—you’ll interact with customers and coworkers all day, and a good attitude goes a long way. Patience and the ability to navigate customer service scenarios with a clear head are also crucial. Sometimes, you’ll deal with customers who have lots of questions or might be challenging. Staying calm and helpful is essential.

Product testing and quality control are also important aspects. You’ll need to be familiar with the different strains, concentrates, and edibles and understand their effects and benefits. This knowledge helps you provide customers with accurate information and ensures they are satisfied with their purchases.

Tips For Thriving in a Dispensary 

To really thrive in this fast-paced, customer-oriented environment, here are a few tips:

• Stay Educated: The cannabis industry is always evolving. New products, strains, and regulations pop up all the time, so you’ll have to be on top of everything. Staying informed and continuing your education will help you provide the best service and keep you ahead of the curve.

• Embrace the Culture: Cannabis culture is unique and vibrant. Embrace the weird, and you’ll find your work a lot more enjoyable and fulfilling. Engage with your customers about their preferences and experiences; it’ll help you build connections and learn more about the products. And don’t be afraid to be yourself. Cannabis is and always has been a counterculture. Your tattoos are fine, and so is your personality. 

• Be Adaptable: Things can change quickly in a dispensary. Whether it’s a sudden rush of customers, a critical error in your POS, a new product drop, or any other challenge that might come up, being adaptable and ready to handle whatever comes your way with a level head is a valuable skill.

• Focus on Customer Experience: At the end of the day, dispensaries are about the customers. Providing a great experience, whether through excellent service or knowledgeable recommendations, will keep them coming back. Even if you’re working in the back of the house, put the customers first, especially when doing your quality control checks. 

• Keep a Positive Attitude: The environment in a dispensary is generally relaxed and positive, but like any job, it has its stressful moments. Keeping a positive attitude will help everyone do their jobs more efficiently without fights or arguments. 

Conclusion 

There you have it! Working in a dispensary means a lot more than going to work and getting a paycheck. It’s a chance to be part of an exciting, growing industry, where you can grow in any direction you like, and forge lifelong friendships with people like you. From the vibrant community and incredible perks to the opportunities for personal and professional growth, there’s a lot to love about dispensary life. 

The sense of community and camaraderie, along with access to the latest products and exclusive perks, makes working in a dispensary one of the most rewarding experiences out there. If you’re passionate about cannabis and ready for a dynamic job, a dispensary might just be the perfect fit for you. Embrace the journey, explore the opportunities, and see where this exciting industry can take you.