The cannabis sector in Canada is growing rapidly, creating a high demand for skilled workers in various fields. From cultivation and processing to retail and marketing, there are many career paths for those who want to join the green economy.
Cannabis Jobs in High Demand
According to StratCann, a Canadian cannabis news platform, there are numerous job openings in the cannabis industry across the country. Some of the roles that are in high demand include:
- Wholesale Manager, Strategic Partnerships: This role involves managing bulk biomass procurement and sales, as well as international business opportunities. SNDL Inc., a Toronto-based cannabis company, is looking for someone with experience in supply chain management and contract negotiation to fill this position.
- Head of Channel Partnerships & Operations: This role requires overseeing the distribution and sales strategy of Aurora Cannabis, one of the largest cannabis producers in the world. The ideal candidate will have a background in e-commerce, retail, or consumer packaged goods, and will be able to work remotely.
- Directeur (trice) qualité: This role is responsible for ensuring the quality and compliance of Greentone, a cannabis producer located in Bécanour, QC. The person will lead the quality assurance and control team, and will have a degree in science, engineering, or a related field.
- Territory Manager: This role is the face of Auxly Cannabis Group Inc., a cannabis consumer packaged goods company, within the retail community. The person will manage the sales and marketing activities in Alberta Central, and will have a passion for cannabis and customer service.
- Cloud System Administrator: This role is part of the technology team of Auxly Cannabis Group Inc., and will manage the cloud infrastructure and security of the company. The person will have experience in AWS, Linux, and DevOps tools.
These are just some examples of the diverse and exciting opportunities that the cannabis industry offers. There are many more roles in production, marketing, branding, and retail that are waiting for qualified candidates.
Cannabis Jobs Offer Competitive Salaries and Benefits
Not only are cannabis jobs plentiful, but they also offer competitive salaries and benefits. According to Vangst, a cannabis jobs platform, the top-end wages in the cannabis industry grew by 4.7% in 2023, outpacing the national non-cannabis average. The report also showed that the cannabis industry is set for a hiring boom in 2024, with up to 100,000 new jobs expected if cannabis is reclassified to Schedule III in the U.S.
Some of the factors that influence the salary and benefits of cannabis jobs include:
- Location: Cannabis jobs tend to pay more in regions where the cost of living is higher, such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec.
- Experience: Cannabis jobs require a range of skills and qualifications, depending on the role and the company. Generally, the more experience and education a candidate has, the higher the salary and benefits they can expect.
- Performance: Cannabis jobs are often based on performance and results, rather than seniority or tenure. This means that candidates who can demonstrate their value and impact can negotiate for better compensation and incentives.
The cannabis industry also offers non-salary benefits, such as health insurance, work-life balance, and career development opportunities. However, the report by Vangst noted that only 74% of cannabis companies offer a comprehensive benefits package, which is lower than other industries. Therefore, candidates who are looking for cannabis jobs should research the company culture and policies before applying.
Cannabis Jobs Require Diversity and Inclusion
The cannabis industry is not only diverse in terms of the roles and functions it offers, but also in terms of the people and communities it serves. The cannabis industry employs a notable number of veterans and individuals with disabilities, indicating a diverse workforce. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of diversity and inclusion, especially in terms of gender, race, and ethnicity.
According to the report by Vangst, nearly half of the cannabis companies surveyed have implemented diversity and inclusion strategies, such as hiring from underrepresented groups, providing training and mentorship, and supporting social equity programs. The report also highlighted the benefits of having a diverse and inclusive workforce, such as:
- Increased creativity and innovation: A diverse and inclusive workforce can bring different perspectives, ideas, and solutions to the table, enhancing the creativity and innovation of the cannabis industry.
- Improved customer satisfaction and loyalty: A diverse and inclusive workforce can better understand and serve the needs and preferences of the diverse and growing customer base of the cannabis industry.
- Enhanced reputation and social responsibility: A diverse and inclusive workforce can demonstrate the commitment and values of the cannabis industry to the society and the environment, enhancing its reputation and social responsibility.
Therefore, candidates who are looking for cannabis jobs should showcase their diversity and inclusion skills, such as cultural awareness, communication, and collaboration. They should also seek out companies that align with their values and goals, and that support the causes and communities they care about.
The cannabis industry in Canada is a dynamic and thriving sector that offers diverse and rewarding job opportunities for those who want to join the green economy. From cultivation and processing to retail and marketing, there are many career paths for those who have the skills, qualifications, and passion for cannabis. The cannabis industry also offers competitive salaries and benefits, as well as a diverse and inclusive work environment. Candidates who are looking for cannabis jobs should research the market, the companies, and the roles that interest them, and prepare themselves for the challenges and opportunities that await them.
