The 2021 cannabis workforce outlook looks toward diversity, inclusion, and social equity.

By Danielle Schumacher

Cannabis legalization is fast outpacing the capacity of licensed businesses to build and retain diverse teams. For companies, the emerging cannabis industry’s future success will depend on effectively implementing social impact plans and inclusive HR practices. This year, job seekers can expect to see hiring at all levels of the supply chain.

Recruiters help match candidates to companies seeking quality talent, a need that has grown stronger as the industry has continued to evolve. Unlike the thousands of general, cross-industry recruitment companies in existence, cannabis staffing firms focus solely on serving the staffing needs of cannabis companies, including dispensaries, cultivation centers, and ancillary businesses. It’s ideal for job seekers to work with a staffing agency because they can help improve your application and advocate for you.

If you are interested in working in the cannabis field, here are five quick tips to follow.

Figure out which sector of the industry you’d like to focus on. Research trade organizations, types of companies, regulations, etc.
Think about what you bring to the table (unique skill sets, perspective, etc.)
Explore educational opportunities such as cannabis-related webinars and state-approved responsible vendor training.
Engage with cannabis organizations on social media and get involved in their campaigns and events.
Identify people who already know you and have a connection to the industry or insight into how to tailor your resume for the types of jobs you are seeking

As the first and only cannabis staffing firm focused exclusively on diversity and inclusion, THC Staffing Group helps companies create strong and sustainable teams. We bring rich experience in cannabis, both as a social justice and economic development issue, working with clients to realize the opportunity for legalization to be built on a foundation of fair and ethical best practices. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) consultants offer advisory services to companies seeking to adopt more inclusive recruitment efforts. From navigating fair hiring processes and job description messaging to finding the best candidate among a pile of resumes, recruitment consultants can assist organizations that truly want to advance social equity.

Image from my Harvest book taken by David Downs

From our deep pool of qualified and highly diverse candidates, we maintain a professional commitment to the growth of an American cannabis industry in which diversity and inclusion are prioritized — not just because it’s better for the bottom line but also because it’s the right thing to do. We access our network of talented and diverse candidates — women, people of color, LGBTQI, formerly incarcerated individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans, across all ages, regardless of citizenship or primary language — to find the ideal fit for cannabis companies For candidates, our goal is to place you into a position of growth.

The cannabis industry is constantly evolving and it’s essential to take the time to acknowledge the work and sacrifices of the people who got us to where we are today. Reject racism in your social circles and your cannabis community and focus on positive change. There are enough jobs in cannabis for you to make a real difference and work in a field you love.

Happy hunting!

[Picture above - Plants are weighted by Ed Rosenthal]

Careers in the Cannabis Industry