Are you ready to dive into the flourishing cannabis job market in Pueblo, Colorado? With a booming industry and many job opportunities, now is the time to explore this exciting career path. Let’s embark on this journey together and discover how to excel in navigating the cannabis job market in Pueblo, Colorado, in 2023!
Short Summary
- Explore the exciting job opportunities in Pueblo’s booming cannabis sector!
- Get excited to pursue a career with MED badge acquisition and networking resources.
- Enjoy a 1.2% growth rate, $42K average pay, and legal considerations for successfully entering this exciting industry!
Understanding Pueblo’s Cannabis Industry
Pioneering the cannabis scene, Pueblo is home to the nation’s first multi-disciplinary cannabis research center, the Institute of Cannabis Research. Its mission is to generate knowledge contributing to science, medicine, and society, paving the way for many cannabis careers.
Furthermore, in 2019, Colorado earned a staggering revenue of $1.77 billion from the cannabis industry. So, what makes the cannabis market in Pueblo so unique?
Medical Marijuana in Pueblo
Great news for Pueblo residents! Medical marijuana is legal for qualifying patients who have obtained a medical marijuana registry identification card from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Colorado residents aged 18 or older with a qualifying medical condition are eligible to participate in this program. No other individuals will be considered valid participants.
This means that Pueblo’s cannabis industry is not only making an impact on people’s lives but also on the local economy.
Recreational Cannabis Market
The recreational cannabis market in Colorado is an exciting legal market for adults 21 or older to purchase cannabis products, offering numerous cannabis career opportunities. As long as you have a valid government-issued ID, you can purchase recreational cannabis in Colorado.
Commercial delivery and social consumption are two thrilling new cannabis laws set to expand the industry’s job market, attracting legitimate traffic and interest in the sector. With a maximum purchase limit of one ounce, Colorado ensures compliance with age restrictions and prevents fraudulent activities.
Job Opportunities in Pueblo’s Cannabis Sector
Pueblo’s cannabis sector offers many job opportunities, from cultivation and retail to manufacturing and extraction. Some positions may require advanced degrees, ensuring professionals with a unique skill set in the industry. With an anticipated salary of $14-$15/hour for cannabis couriers or drivers, the focus is on the security and safe transportation of cannabis products.
Let’s delve deeper into the various job opportunities available in Pueblo’s cannabis industry.
Dispensary Jobs
Dispensary jobs offer an exciting entry point into the cannabis industry. A dispensary manager, for instance, can earn between $45,000-$50,000 per year, while budtenders may earn between $12-$18 per hour.
You’ll need multiple years of managerial experience to land one of these coveted positions. These roles serve as vital touchpoints between the cannabis industry and its customers, providing valuable insights and expertise on cannabis products.
Cultivation Positions
Cultivation positions are exciting jobs related to the growth and production of cannabis, such as cannabis extraction technicians, cannabis trimmers, and cultivation associates. To be a cannabis extraction technician, experience in a lab setting is essential. Additionally, knowing cannabis or chemistry can prove to be a beneficiary.
A cannabis trimmer’s responsibilities include harvesting, de-fanning, trimming, cleaning, rolling joints, and packaging cannabis flowers for sale. You can earn between $13-$18 per hour as a cultivation associate.
Ancillary Roles in the Cannabis Industry
Ancillary roles in the cannabis industry are businesses that provide support services to cannabis companies, such as accountants, marketing agencies, and law firms. In Pueblo, Colorado, you can find ancillary roles such as brand ambassadors, financial service providers, and hydroponics experts.
Around 10,000 ancillary cannabis jobs are estimated to exist in Colorado, making it a significant contributor to the local economy. These roles play a vital role in ensuring the success and growth of the cannabis industry.
Acquiring a MED Badge for Cannabis Employment
To work in Colorado’s cannabis industry, you must acquire a MED badge – an occupational license required for cannabis employment. Colorado residents without a felony conviction within five years can obtain a MED badge.
The application process for a MED badge requires an in-person appointment, and getting a MED badge costs $100. Obtaining your MED badge is essential in pursuing a career in the cannabis industry.
Networking and Resources for Cannabis Job Seekers
Networking is crucial for cannabis job seekers in Pueblo, Colorado. Attending job fairs, networking events, and seminars can help you make connections with potential employers and learn more about the cannabis industry. Additionally, joining professional organizations like the Colorado Cannabis Industry Association, the Colorado Cannabis Chamber of Commerce, and the Cannabis Business Alliance can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities.
Online job boards such as Indeed, Monster, and the Marijuana Job Board also list job openings in Pueblo, Colorado, making it easier to find your dream job.
Tips for Landing a Cannabis Job in Pueblo
To increase your chances of landing a cannabis job in Pueblo, Colorado, attending job fairs and networking events, such as the ARIEL Job Fair, is essential. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to meet potential employers and learn more about the industry.
Make sure your resume reflects your previous and relevant job experience and skills. Answering questions clearly and confidently can set you apart from other candidates during interviews.
With determination and preparation, you can succeed in Pueblo’s cannabis job market.
Navigating Cannabis Job Sites and Platforms
Navigating cannabis job sites and platforms can be overwhelming, but resources like Indeed, Monster, and MJCC can help you find job openings in Pueblo, Colorado. Cannabis-specific job sites like Vangst, Weedmaps, and Leafly provide access to a larger pool of cannabis-related job postings and more detailed information about these positions.
Utilizing general and cannabis-specific job sites can maximize your chances of finding the perfect job in Pueblo’s cannabis industry.
Pueblo’s Cannabis Job Market Outlook
The future looks bright for Pueblo’s cannabis job market, with an expected growth of 1.2% in 2023. This growth is attributed to the manufacturing sector, which includes marijuana production.
Additionally, the average pay for dispensary workers in Colorado is around $42,157 annually. With over 100,000 people employed in Colorado’s cannabis industry, the job market thrives and offers promising opportunities.
Legal Considerations for Cannabis Employees
As a cannabis employee in Pueblo, Colorado, it’s essential to be aware of state and local regulations. Colorado employers can fire employees and disqualify applicants whose drug tests are positive, even for marijuana (THC).
Staying informed about these laws and regulations can help you avoid pitfalls and ensure a successful career in the cannabis industry.
Summary
In conclusion, Pueblo’s thriving cannabis job market offers a wealth of opportunities for job seekers. From understanding the medical and recreational cannabis markets to exploring various job opportunities and acquiring a MED badge, there are many steps to take on your journey to a successful cannabis career. By utilizing networking resources, attending events, and navigating job sites, you can increase your chances of landing the perfect cannabis job in Pueblo, Colorado.
So, what are you waiting for? Pueblo’s cannabis job market is growing, and now is the perfect time to embark on your new and exciting career path. Embrace the opportunities that await you and join the flourishing cannabis industry in Pueblo, Colorado!
Frequently Asked Questions
What position makes the most money in the cannabis industry?
The position that makes the most money in the cannabis industry is the Cannabis Sales Manager, earning an average salary of $113,660 per year. Cannabis Marketing Managers and Business Operations Managers also bring in a substantial income with an average salary of $73,360 each.
These three positions offer tremendous opportunities for growth and high earning potential for those interested in a career in the marijuana industry.
How much money do you make working at a dispensary in Colorado?
Working as a dispensary budtender in Colorado can be quite lucrative. The average pay for a budtender in Colorado is around $13.50 an hour, with some relatively high-paying jobs offering up to $17 an hour or more for supervisor and leadership positions.
Generally, your wage depends on experience and availability.
What is required to work in the cannabis industry in Colorado?
To work in the cannabis industry in Colorado, you need to obtain a MED (Marijuana Enforcement Division) occupational license, more commonly referred to as a MED badge. The badge allows you to work in medical and recreational dispensaries, so it’s an important step before you begin working in the field.
Does working in the cannabis industry hurt your career?
Working in the cannabis industry doesn’t have to hurt your career! Many employers are beginning to view this industry as a valid career path. As more states legalize recreational cannabis, the stigma around the industry continues to dissipate, and more employers are open to considering people with cannabis-related job experience.
Excitingly, the cannabis industry is growing rapidly, opening up plenty of opportunities for ambitious professionals.