A Decade of Progress in the Cannabis Industry
A decade ago, buying marijuana for recreational use was illegal in all but two states, but times are changing. Now legal in 21 states and counting, the budding weed industry ranks as the fastest growing in the US.
Explosive Job Growth in Cannabis
In 2017, the cannabis sector employed just 122,800 people. By last year, that had tripled to almost half a million. The industry now employs more people than there are hair stylists, barbers and cosmetologists combined in the US, and has three times as many workers as there are dentists.
Continued Expansion and Opportunities
The market’s exponential growth is expected to continue as states like New York, New Jersey and Connecticut implement retail sales. In 2023 alone, the industry will create 108,000 new jobs and, once legalized nationwide, it could support as many as 1.75m workers across the US.
Attracting Talent to a Young Industry
Yet, much like the tech industry, the cannabis sector’s relative youth causes it to suffer from a shortage of talent and an urgent need to attract workers from alternative fields. That’s good news for those seeking a new role in an exciting and dynamic industry, as not only are there plenty of opportunities for those with ‘regular’ workplace skills, but there’s also good money to be made.
Best Jobs in the Cannabis Industry
To identify the easiest to secure and highest paid jobs in the cannabis industry, WEEDAR analyzed vacancies on LinkedIn and salaries on Glassdoor. For those weighing up a switch to the cannabis sector, here are the best roles to consider:
- Cannabis Sales Manager
Key requirements: 2+ years of outside sales experience; knowledge of cannabis industry regulations, market trends and competition; proven ability to execute a sales strategy; knowledge of Microsoft Office tools; and experience using sales management systems. Average salary: $113,660
- Cannabis Marketing Manager
Key requirements: 1-2+ years of marketing experience; exceptional project management, organization and communication skills; knowledge of graphic design processes; strong critical thinking skills; and an understanding of industry standards and regulations at a local, state, and federal level. Average salary: $83,637
- Cannabis Business Operations Manager
Key requirements: A degree in business administration or a related field, strong leadership and interpersonal skills, ability to multitask, and knowledge of marijuana laws and regulations. Average salary: $73,360
- Cannabis Consultant
Key requirements: Experience in retail sales, passion for the cannabis industry, communication skills, and a willingness to learn. Average salary: $67,716
- Cannabis Delivery Driver
Key requirements: Valid driver’s license, flexibility and organization, ability to pass background checks, excellent interpersonal skills. Average salary: $39,877
Bonus: Medical Marijuana Physician
Key requirements: An MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) qualification, a license to practice in the appropriate state, and unrestricted Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) verification to be a supervising physician. Average salary: $240,000
