Ohio’s growing cannabis job market

By Andi Anderson

Ohio’s legal cannabis industry is flourishing after the August 6 decision permitting recreational marijuana sales. Within the first month, the state reported over $50 million in sales, signaling strong market potential.

Currently, 123 dual-use dispensaries operate under licenses, with demand driving the need for more workers.

Entry-level roles such as cultivators, trimmers, and dispensary consultants are in high demand, alongside skilled professionals like marketers, maintenance technicians, and security personnel.

Experienced individuals from non-cannabis sectors are increasingly transitioning into the industry, filling workforce gaps.

B.C. Wehman, a marketing professional and instructor at the Cleveland School of Cannabis, emphasizes the importance of science and technology in cannabis operations. Ohio’s strict testing standards create job opportunities for those with expertise in biology and molecular science. Additionally, the sector requires skilled attorneys to navigate evolving regulations and irrigation specialists to support cultivation.

Roles such as budtenders, who assist customers with product selection, and brand ambassadors, who educate consumers, are becoming essential in the growing market.

According to Indeed, dispensary consultant positions in Ohio offer around $17 per hour, while management roles can pay up to $26 per hour.

The industry also offers career growth opportunities. For example, trimmers can progress to cultivation associates, and budtenders may advance to management roles.

Employers like Klutch Cannabis, a leading cultivator in Akron, anticipate doubling their workforce in the coming years as the market expands.

Nationally, the cannabis sector supports over 440,000 full-time jobs, with newer markets like Ohio showing the most growth potential. As the industry evolves, adaptable and passionate individuals can find diverse opportunities, making Ohio’s cannabis market a promising avenue for economic development and job creation.

Those interested in joining the industry are encouraged to explore roles and connect with cannabis businesses, as the demand for talent continues to grow.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski