What do you need to work in cannabis in Mississippi

How to Work in a Dispensary in Mississippi

Mississippi became the 37th state to legalize medical cannabis when Governor Tate Reeves signed the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act in February 2022. If you’re interested in working in a dispensary, here are the key requirements.

Cannabis Worker Requirements in Mississippi

Cannabis industry employees in Mississippi are called “Medical Cannabis Establishment Employees.” To work in a dispensary, you must obtain a work permit. The main requirements include:

Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old.
Work Permit: You must have a valid work permit before starting employment in a cannabis establishment.
Photo ID: Submit a recent passport-style digital photo and a copy of your state-issued ID.

Application Process for a Work Permit

To apply for a work permit, follow these steps:

Submit Required Documents: Provide your digital photo, state ID, and any professional licenses.
Pay Fees: The application fee is $25, plus the cost of a background check.
Background Check: Complete a fingerprint-based background check through the Mississippi Central Criminal Database and the FBI.

Background Check Requirements

Applicants must pass a background check. A disqualifying felony offense includes convictions for violent crimes or felony drug offenses in the past five years. However, if the conviction involved conduct now protected under the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act, it may not disqualify you.

Why Work in Mississippi’s Cannabis Industry?

The legalization of medical cannabis in Mississippi opens new job opportunities in a growing industry. By meeting the age, registration, and background check requirements, you can begin a career in this emerging sector.

Mississippi’s cannabis market is expected to grow, providing a chance to enter the industry as regulations continue to develop.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Budtender

Tips for Succeeding in the Cannabis Industry in Mississippi

Success in Mississippi’s cannabis industry requires a blend of passion, knowledge, and professionalism. Staying informed about local laws, industry trends, and consumer preferences is pivotal. Additionally, cultivating a customer-first mindset and demonstrating ethical behaviors will set a solid foundation for a career in this burgeoning field.

Building a professional network, seeking mentorships, attending industry events, and being adaptable to the evolving landscape of cannabis regulations are all strategies that can contribute to a rewarding career in Mississippi cannabis dispensaries.

Tips for Aspiring Cannabis Industry Professionals in Mississippi

For individuals aspiring to work in the cannabis industry in Mississippi, here are some tips to enhance their chances of securing employment:

– Ensure Compliance: Make sure to meet the minimum age requirement of 21 years old and have no disqualifying felony offenses on record. If there is a relevant conviction, it’s important to check if it falls under the medical cannabis exception.

– Gain Relevant Experience: Building a relevant skill set can increase employability. Consider working in retail, healthcare, or customer service to acquire transferable skills. Additionally, taking courses or certifications related to cannabis can demonstrate knowledge and dedication to the industry.

– Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with Mississippi’s evolving cannabis regulations, as they can impact the requirements for employment. Being knowledgeable about the industry and staying informed about any changes or developments can make individuals more competitive candidates.

By following these tips, individuals can position themselves as strong candidates for employment in Mississippi’s cannabis industry and increase their chances of securing a job in a dispensary.

Knowledge of Cannabis Strains and Products

Aside from customer service, you’ll also need a solid understanding of different cannabis strains, products, and their effects. Employees should be able to educate patients on various products, their onset times, and their potential benefits. If you don’t already have previous experience working in the industry, enrolling in a course like our dispensary agent certification can help get you up to speed in just 10 hours or less.

Ability to Work in a Regulated Environment

Cannabis companies operate within strict regulatory frameworks, requiring employees to adhere to all state laws and regulations governing the cultivation, manufacturing, sale, and distribution of medical marijuana.

How to Get Started Working in a Dispensary

Research Available Job Opportunities

Online job portals like Indeed or LinkedIn and Industry-Specific websites like Vangst.com often list job openings in dispensaries. If those aren’t working fast enough for you, you can also try working with an industry-specific recruiting company like FlowerHire to get the ball rolling.

Building your network within the industry can help you get a leg up with new opportunities. Attending industry events, joining professional associations, and networking with individuals already working in the cannabis industry can help provide valuable insights and job leads.

Craft a Compelling Resume and Cover Letter

When applying for a job at a Mississippi dispensary, it is important to craft a compelling resume and cover letter. Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience, such as previous work in customer service or healthcare, as well as any certifications or training related to the cannabis industry. Emphasize your passion for the cannabis industry and its potential to improve people’s lives. It is also important to maintain professionalism throughout the application process.