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Cannabis R&D Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R & D Manager

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Design and evaluate trials for introducing new cannabis cultivars. * Oversee genetics library management as well as evaluation of new genetics and the phenohunting program in partnership with nursery ...

As a trailblazer in the cannabis industry, our roots run deep and our sights are set high. If you ... Other duties in post-processing production, packaging, labeling and R & D as required. What we're ...

At TerrAscend, we don't just grow cannabis -- we grow possibility. Whether it's cultivating top ... Other duties in post-processing production, packaging, labeling and R & D as required. What we're ...

At TerrAscend, we don't just grow cannabis -- we grow possibility. Whether it's cultivating top ... Other duties in post-processing production, packaging, labeling and R & D as required. What we're ...

Trim Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

E.D. equivalent required. * Knowledge of the cannabis plant. * Knowledge and understanding of ... R.S. §36-2801.10 * Must consent to a criminal background check performed by the Company and/or the ...

Trim Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

E.D. equivalent required. * Knowledge of the cannabis plant. * Knowledge and understanding of ... R.S. §36-2801.10 * Must consent to a criminal background check performed by the Company and/or the ...

E.D. equivalent required. * Knowledge of the cannabis plant. * Knowledge and understanding of ... R.S. §36-2801.10 * Must consent to a criminal background check performed by the Company and/or the ...

Packaging Technician

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

E.D. equivalent required. * Knowledge of the cannabis plant. * Knowledge and understanding of ... R.S. §36-2801.10 * Must consent to a criminal background check performed by the Company and/or the ...

As stewards of the cannabis industry, our teams are constantly focused on supporting the needs of ... D. We also offer eligible employees paid holidays and paid time off. Other rewards may include ...

Budtender

Waterford, MI · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

This position is ideal for someone with cannabis industry experience who enjoys helping customers, providing product guidance, and creating a welcoming retail experience. Responsibilities As a ...

Budtender

Waterford, MI · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

This position is ideal for someone with cannabis industry experience who enjoys helping customers, providing product guidance, and creating a welcoming retail experience. Responsibilities As a ...

The position serves as a critical bridge between customers, internal QA/R amp;D teams, and ... Cannabis industry experience is a plus, but not required What This Role Is NOT * This is not a call ...

Delivery Driver

Chico, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Delivery Drivers must love all things Cannabis and be eager to impart this knowledge to our ... E X P E C T E D H O U R S O F W O R K : This is a part-time position, non exempt. Days and hours of ...

Florist

Culver City, CA · On-site

$18.15/hr

The Florist must love all things Cannabis and be eager to impart this knowledge to our customers ... Will report to a Sweet Flower Store Manager W O R K I N G A N D E N V I R O N M E N T A L C O N D I ...

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Cannabis R D information

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How much do cannabis r&d jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cannabis r&d in the United States is $21.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cannabis R&D specialist?

To thrive as a Cannabis R&D Specialist, you need a solid background in plant science, chemistry, or related fields, often supported by a degree in biology, chemistry, or horticulture. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instrumentation (such as HPLC or GC-MS), and regulatory compliance certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong collaboration skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are critical for ensuring product safety, innovation, and regulatory adherence in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry.

What is the difference between Cannabis R&D vs Cannabis Cultivation Specialist?

AspectCannabis R&DCannabis Cultivation Specialist
CredentialsScience or horticulture degrees, research certificationsHorticulture, agriculture, or cultivation certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, controlled environmentsGrow rooms, outdoor farms, cultivation facilities
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, product development companiesLicensed cultivation facilities, dispensaries
Search & Comparison IntentResearch, product innovation, scientific developmentPlant care, crop yield, cultivation techniques

While Cannabis R&D focuses on scientific research, product development, and innovation within controlled environments, Cannabis Cultivation Specialists are primarily involved in growing and maintaining cannabis plants in farms or grow rooms. Both roles require industry-specific knowledge but differ in their focus—research versus hands-on cultivation.

What is Cannabis R&D?

Cannabis R&D (Research and Development) refers to the scientific process of studying, innovating, and improving cannabis plants, products, and technologies. This field includes activities such as developing new strains, optimizing cultivation methods, enhancing extraction techniques, and formulating new cannabis-based products for medical or recreational use. Cannabis R&D professionals may work in laboratories, greenhouses, or production facilities, often collaborating with scientists, engineers, and regulatory experts to ensure product safety, efficacy, and compliance. The goal is to advance knowledge about cannabis and create high-quality, reliable products for consumers.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Cannabis R&D, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Cannabis R&D often encounter challenges related to regulatory compliance, variability in plant genetics, and rapidly evolving scientific standards. Navigating state and federal regulations requires staying updated on legal requirements and maintaining meticulous documentation. Additionally, working with a living plant means managing genetic inconsistencies and ensuring reproducible results, which can be addressed by implementing rigorous quality control measures and standardized protocols. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as cultivation, extraction, and quality assurance, is key to overcoming these challenges and driving successful research outcomes.
More about Cannabis R D jobs
Infographic showing various Cannabis R&D job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,500 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
include the following:
Program Leadership & Cross-Functional Alignment
  • Work with the Director of R&D to design and execute R&D projects, aligning research priorities with company production and business goals.
  • Establish project goals and priorities in collaboration with Propagation, Cultivation, Processing, and Sales departments.
  • Collaborate with Greenhouse Managers, Planning, and Operations to ensure R&D projects are in line with production requirements and scheduling.
  • Examine key facility production parameters and control system data to generate research projects that support business goals.
  • Identify opportunities to improve quality, yield, and operational efficiency, including evaluation of process, materials, products, and equipment.
  • Ensure R&D projects remain within approved scope and adhere to scheduled completion dates and budget.
  • Supervise, train, and mentor R&D staff (e.g., Cultivation Trial Assistant), providing guidance and performance feedback.

New Genetics, Nursery Partnerships & Strain Library
  • Design and evaluate trials for introducing new cannabis cultivars.
  • Oversee genetics library management as well as evaluation of new genetics and the phenohunting program in partnership with nursery/breeding partners.
  • Work with Mother Plant Greenhouse Manager, planning, sales, and tissue culture staff to guide decisions on retiring and introducing genetics into the production pipeline.

Propagation, Cultivation, & Processing Research
  • Direct trials testing propagation and flowering plant cultivation variables (feed programs, irrigation/fertigation scheduling, substrate/media, planting density, lighting, environmental setpoints, plant training techniques) to optimize yield and quality.
  • Direct research into post-harvest processing parameters (drying, curing) affecting flower quality, potency retention, and terpene preservation.
  • Translate research findings into actionable cultivation recommendations and SOPs, in partnership with Operations and QA.

Data, Documentation & Reporting
  • Work with management to develop and maintain a standardized, centralized database/system to collect, store, and present R&D findings and conclusions.
  • Document all phases of research and development.
  • Present research and development project findings and conclusions to leadership.
  • Other responsibilities assigned by manager.

Supervisory Responsibilities
  • This position supervises the Cultivation and Propagation Trial Assistants and other research and development staff as assigned.

Requirements
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Horticulture, Botany, Genetics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience
  • 4+ years of commercial cannabis cultivation experience, including direct exposure to propagation, tissue culture, and flowering plant cultivation
  • Demonstrated experience designing, executing, and managing controlled research trials
  • Working knowledge of cannabis genetics and phenotype evaluation
  • Strong data compilation, analysis, and reporting skills
  • Experience managing or mentoring staff
  • Ability to translate research findings into practical, production-ready recommendations
  • Solid experience with MS Office (particularly MS Excel)
  • Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple concurrent projects, and meet deadlines
  • Strong people skills, organization, and meticulous attention to detail

Preferred:
  • Advanced degree in a plant science-related field
  • Familiarity with tissue culture technique and micropropagation
  • Experience with crop steering and environmental control systems
  • Familiarity with tracking genetic lineage and pedigree records
  • Working knowledge of state cannabis cultivation regulations
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional weekends

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work in conditions typically found in a greenhouse or cultivation facility, including high humidity and varying temperatures
  • Ability to exert up to 15-50 pounds occasionally to lift and move product or equipment
  • Ability to balance, reach, and grasp while climbing on a step stool and/or ladder
  • Ability to crouch, grasp, and lift product above shoulders
  • Ability to be on feet for extended periods while performing job responsibilities

Computer Skills
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of the following software applications:
  • Internet software
  • Microsoft Office
  • Excel (intermediate to advanced)
  • Business Central

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
None required for this position
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.