The Best Paying Jobs in Cannabis

The cannabis industry is booming. According to the latest industry research analysis, the global Cannabidiol Market is predicted to be worth over $ 6.77 billion by 2032. That’s up from $580 million in 2022. And that’s just CBD!

As the cannabis industry grows, so does the number of jobs. According to Leafly, the cannabis sector in the United States employed 428,059 people in 2022. They stated, “Last year, the cannabis industry created an average of 280 new jobs per day.” That’s incredible.

From seed-to-sale operations to medical research and development, there is a wide range of opportunities available in cannabis. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for a change or just starting your career, there is no shortage of employment opportunities in the cannabis industry. Let’s look at the best-paying jobs in weed.

Best Paying Jobs in the Cannabis Industry

Cultivation Director – A cannabis cultivation director oversees and manages all aspects of the cannabis cultivation process within a cannabis company or facility. Their primary role is to ensure the successful and efficient growth, production, and harvesting of cannabis plants. Duties include team management, facility design & setup, crop monitoring, quality control, compliance, and inventory. According to Fortune, cultivation directors make $93,000 to $186,500 annually.

Edible Chef – A cannabis edible chef, also known as a cannabis culinary chef or cannabis-infused chef, specializes in creating and preparing food and beverages infused with cannabis. Their role is to combine culinary skills with knowledge of cannabis and its effects to create delicious and properly dosed cannabis-infused edibles. From creating recipes to quality control and compliance, the weed edibles you love are thanks to edible chefs. WikiLeaf reports the average annual salary for edible chefs to be between $40,000 and $90,000.

Extraction Technician – A cannabis extract technician, also known as an extraction specialist, is responsible for extracting active compounds, such as cannabinoids and terpenes, from cannabis plants to create various cannabis extracts and concentrates. Their primary role is to utilize extraction methods and equipment to obtain concentrated forms of cannabis for use in various products like oils, tinctures, edibles, and vape cartridges. According to Indeed, extraction technicians make between $33,400 and $56,324 per year.

Dispensary Manager – A dispensary manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a cannabis dispensary. They play a crucial role in ensuring the dispensary operates efficiently, complies with regulations, provides excellent customer service, and achieves business objectives. Duties include staffing, inventory, security, sales, financial management, and more. According to Production Grower, “wages average around $48,000 per year and can reach heights in the higher five figures” for dispensary owners.

Marketing Director – A cannabis marketing director develops and executes marketing strategies to promote cannabis products, build brand awareness, and drive sales. They oversee advertising campaigns, digital marketing efforts, product marketing, public relations, and compliance with industry regulations. Their role is to create and implement marketing initiatives that maximize brand visibility. According to Glassdoor, the average annual pay for cannabis marketing directors is $124,511.

Cannabis Attorney – A cannabis attorney specializes in providing legal counsel and representation to clients operating in the industry. They navigate the complex and evolving landscape of cannabis laws and regulations at the local, state, and federal levels. Their responsibilities include advising clients on compliance, licensing, and regulatory requirements, assisting with business formation and contracts, representing clients in administrative proceedings or litigation, and staying updated with changes in cannabis laws. They play a vital role in ensuring legal compliance and protecting the rights and interests of their cannabis clients. ZipRecruiter reports the national average yearly salary for a cannabis attorney to be $77,006.

Research Scientist – Also referred to as a “weed scientist,” cannabis research scientists play a crucial role in advancing scientific understanding of cannabis. They investigate various aspects of cannabis, including its chemical composition, therapeutic potential, pharmacology, cultivation techniques, and safety profiles. Their work involves designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and publishing research findings. Cannabis research scientists contribute to expanding knowledge about cannabis, its compounds (such as cannabinoids and terpenes), their effects on the human body, potential medical applications, and optimal cultivation practices. According to GlassDoor, weed scientists bring in $77,659 per year on average.

The cannabis industry is full of great career opportunities. And with so much continued growth and expansion, the cannabis industry offers a bright future for those looking to be a part of it. From high-paying positions like that of a Master Extraction Technician to cultivating, marketing, and more, the options are plentiful. Remember to always do your homework when researching the requirements and skills needed for each position.