Top Cannabis Careers in Massachusetts: Where to Start and What to Expect

Since recreational cannabis was legalized in Massachusetts in 2016, the industry has exploded—and so has the job market. There are now more cannabis professionals in the state than hairstylists! If you're looking for an entry-level opportunity or a change in your career, there’s a path for you in this growing field.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common cannabis jobs in Massachusetts, what they involve, and how to get started.

🌱 What Kind of Cannabis Jobs Are Out There?

The Massachusetts cannabis industry spans many sectors: retail, cultivation, manufacturing, marketing, compliance, and more. Whether you're outgoing, tech-savvy, science-minded, or plant-obsessed, you’ll find something that fits your strengths.

👉 Want to see what it's like working in a dispensary? Check out [A Day in the Life of a Budtender at Our Fitchburg Location].

🌿 Cultivation Jobs: Get Your Hands on the Plant

Trimmer (Entry-Level)

If you're just starting out and want hands-on experience, trimming is a great place to begin.

Responsibilities:

• Harvesting and trimming cannabis buds
• Weighing, labeling, and packaging product
• Maintaining compliance logs and cleanliness

Requirements:

• Must be 21+
• High school diploma
• Detail-oriented and a team player
• Willing to work weekends

📌 Search for “Massachusetts cannabis trimming jobs” to find open roles near you.

Grow Team: Advanced Cultivation Roles

Once you’ve gotten experience in trimming or other grow roles, you might aim for positions like:

Master Grower

Oversees plant health, pest management, and nutrients. Typically requires a background in botany or horticulture.

Cultivation Director

Focuses on compliance, SOPs, and operational strategy. Many come from greenhouse or agricultural management backgrounds.

🔬 Lab & Extraction Jobs: Where Science Meets Cannabis

Cannabis testing and extraction is a fast-growing part of the industry. These roles ensure products are clean, potent, and safe.

Common Roles Include:

• Extraction Technician – Operates machinery to isolate THC, CBD, and terpenes
• Lab Assistant – Supports lab teams with documentation and prep
• Quality Assurance Manager – Verifies testing accuracy and product compliance

Note: These jobs often require a chemistry or biology background, but some entry-level opportunities exist.

🛒 Retail & Dispensary Jobs: The Customer Connection

Budtender (Entry-Level)

Budtenders are the face of any dispensary. It’s a great first job for anyone passionate about cannabis and customer service.

Duties include:

• Helping customers select products
• Explaining effects and usage within compliance
• Keeping inventory stocked and displays clean

Prior sales or hospitality experience is a plus. Cannabis knowledge is helpful but not required—we’ll teach you!

🔗 [Apply now to become a Budtender at The Healing Center Fitchburg]

Advancement Opportunities in Retail

Many budtenders move into roles like:

• Inventory Manager – Manages supply levels and compliance tracking
• General Manager – Oversees daily operations and team management
• Marketing or Events Coordinator – Handles promos, social, and in-store campaigns

🍪 Other Cannabis Careers You Might Love

Beyond the dispensary or grow room, consider these paths:

• Edibles Chef
• Delivery Driver
• Packaging Technician
• Cannabis Educator
• Digital Marketing Specialist
• Compliance Analyst

Do your research and reflect on what skills you bring to the table. Many companies offer training for motivated new hires.

🙌 Join Our Team in Fitchburg

If you're looking to kickstart your cannabis career, we’d love to meet you. Our team at The Healing Center Fitchburg is always on the lookout for passionate, hard-working individuals who want to grow with us.