Want to Work in Cannabis? Here’s Your Next Step.
The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing job markets in the U.S., with career opportunities expanding in cultivation, retail, production, marketing, compliance, and more. Whether you’re fresh out of school, switching industries, or finally chasing your passion, now’s the time to jump in.
So, what’s the actual process of landing a job in cannabis? Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting started, getting certified, and getting hired.
Step 1: Get Certified Online
Before applying for jobs, you’ll want a solid foundation in cannabis knowledge.
At Cannabis Career Academy, our Dispensary Agent Certification Course teaches you everything you need to know to work in a retail dispensary or cannabis store, including:
- Cannabis plant basics: cannabinoids, terpenes, strain types
- Products: edibles, tinctures, concentrates, topicals & more
- Laws, compliance, and safety
- Customer service and patient care
- POS systems and dispensary operations
You can complete the course 100% online in 10 hours or less, at your own pace. Once certified, you’ll have a professional credential to add to your resume and show employers you’re job-ready.
Step 2: Find the Right Cannabis Jobs
There are hundreds of cannabis job titles, so start by deciding where your skills fit best. Love interacting with people? Try budtending. More interested in science or production? Look into extraction or cultivation.
Where to Search:
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- CannabizTeam
- Vangst
- Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter (search for “Cannabis” or “Dispensary”)
- State-specific job boards for medical marijuana programs (California, Michigan, etc.)
Tip: Set alerts and check often; jobs can fill quickly, especially in newer legal markets.
Step 3: Craft a Cannabis-Friendly Resume
Hiring managers are often flooded with resumes, so make yours stand out!
Resume Tips:
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- Lead with your certification – Put “Certified Dispensary Agent” near the top.
- Highlight transferable skills – Retail, hospitality, customer service, compliance, or sales experience? That counts!
- Customize for each job – Use keywords from the job posting (like “POS systems” or “customer education”).
- Keep it clean – One page is ideal. Make it visually readable and professional.
Need help? Here’s our guide for writing a resume for a cannabis job!
Step 4: Ace the Interview
Once you get an interview, prep like a pro:
Interview Prep Checklist:
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- Practice explaining why you want to work in cannabis
- Be ready to discuss favorite strains or product knowledge
- Brush up on state-specific laws and regulations
- Show enthusiasm, professionalism, and curiosity
Step 5: Follow Up Like You Mean It
Always send a thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview. It can be short and sweet, just thank them for their time, reiterate your excitement, and remind them that you’re certified and ready to go.
Bonus Tips for Getting Hired in the Cannabis Industry
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- Attend local cannabis networking events or trade shows (like CannaCon, MJBizCon, etc.)
- Follow cannabis companies and dispensaries on social media
- Stay informed on industry trends, follow blogs, newsletters, and LinkedIn groups’
- Stay compliant, know your state’s regulations, and stay updated on changes
The cannabis industry is growing, and the best way to stand out is by showing employers you’re already committed. With our Dispensary Agent Certification Course, you’ll gain confidence, credibility, and a credential that helps open doors.
Enroll today, and start building your cannabis career.