How to get a job on the front lines of the cannabis industry

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For many people, simply being surrounded by weed all day is a dream come true. But what if you could get paid for it?

If you can’t get enough of learning about different types of strains, CBD to THC ratios, terpenes, and grow facilities, you may be meant for budtending.

Budtenders work at dispensaries speaking with customers about different cannabis accessories and strains. They are experts in their field, are usually certified, and represent the brand of their companies.

The cannabis industry is somewhat new, and each state is experiencing its own level of legality. With such variance, some may wonder how to become a budtender, and all of the other questions that go along with new employment.

What is a Budtender?

We all know what a bartender is, but many people are new to the term budtender. The emerged as a result of cannabis legalization efforts in many states. Budtenders, much like bartenders, work behind the counter at cannabis dispensaries. They help people select products, learn about brands, and find the right accessories for their chosen consumption method.

Budtenders aren’t cashiers — they are experts

Budtenders offer much more than an average retail store worker. Budtenders need to have specialized, highly nuanced knowledge to work in a weed shop. Sometimes, people know exactly what they want from cannabis, such as relief from pain. But people who are new to the plant may not know exactly what they want from the product. This is when budtender magic kicks in.

Selecting products is not as easy as 1-2-3. Every person has an individualized endocannabinoid system. The product experience for each consumer may differ. On top of this, cannabis varieties differ between cultivators and environments, causing varying effects dependent on batch and brand.

Budtenders should be able to comfortably chat about different pipes and accessories, making sure customers can enjoy their weed. After finding the right product, clock what gear is required to light up. Those visiting town may not have a lighter. Also, new patients might need help learning how to dab or roll joints.

How much do budtenders get paid?

Zip Recruiter clocked the average US budtender salary at $14.50 per hour, sometimes plus tips. Though most do not believe tipping is required at the dispensary. Basically, budtenders barely make a living wage. However, since the cannabis laws vary by state, the hourly rate can vary drastically across the U.S. Difference in licensing fees, minimum wage, cost to operate, heavy taxation, and more influence employee pay.

If you want to get the most accurate estimate on what budtenders in your location make, look up reports for budtender salaries in your state.

What you need to become a budtender

A college degree is not required to become a budtender, but getting a certificate may open doors. With many people hoping to break into weed, a budtender certification may help a prospective employee stand out.

Certifications provide information about medical cannabis, the endocannabinoid system, nuances of sativa and indica, cultivation basics, and more. This can be instrumental in helping a hopeful budtender get comfortable quickly at a new dispensary job. Budtenders play an important role in the larger picture of the cannabis industry. They are the first faces people see when they start learning about marijuana.

Budtenders: the bartenders of weed

A budtender is not a just a silly pothead caricature. They are experts in a budding industry who often take their work seriously. Many are also highly informed on a topic that is confusing and constantly developing.

Without budtenders, people new to cannabis would may get lost in the long list of cannabis products. Those who hope to be a part of this valued workforce just need ingenuity and a willingness to learn.