Cannabis Extraction Jobs and Responsibilities
Cannabis Extraction Jobs
If you are looking to find out more about cannabis extraction jobs and responsibilities, we have a comprehensive career guide for you. Whether you are just starting off your cannabis industry career or you have many years of experience working in botanical extraction, we cover the job’s responsibilities, qualifications, and salary to guide your career journey.
What Is a Cannabis Extraction Technician?
An extraction technician works in a state-compliant processing lab performing solvent-based and/or solventless extractions.
- Solvent-based extractions use solvents such as hazardous hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, and ethanol. Solvent-based extracts include shatter, crumble, wax, distillate, and live resin.
- Solventless extractions use mechanical separation processes to separate the plant’s resinous trichomes. Solventless extracts include rosin, kief, and hash.
Cannabis extraction technicians must operate the equipment to extract the active compounds (cannabinoids and terpenes) from raw material including cannabis flower and trim. Operators prepare the material and extract the resin to produce a concentrated form of the plant.
Cannabis Extraction Technician Responsibilities
Extraction technician responsibilities vary depending on the company. Each lab may use different solvents and equipment or produce different types of concentrates.
Ultimately, an extraction technician is responsible for preparing the material, operating the equipment, disposing of the waste, and maintaining the lab in pristine condition.
Throughout every part of the extraction process, technicians must have exceptional attention to detail. They must also be able to work with dangerous and flammable materials and troubleshoot technical complications related to the machinery or processes.
Here are some of the common extraction technician job responsibilities:
- Follow, create, and/or improve standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Intake and storage of frozen and fresh cannabis material
- Prepare raw materials for extraction
- Work with hazardous/flammable solvents
- Operate closed-loop extraction systems or solventless systems
- Troubleshoot mechanical issues
- Perform post-processing tasks such as solvent purging
- Adhere to all safety and compliance procedures
- Prepare samples for analysis and testing of cannabis products
- Record inventory and process data on the software tracking platform
- Inventory management of raw material, chemicals, and equipment
- Maintain the lab workspace and equipment clean and organized
- Dispose of waste
- Meet production goals
- Package and label extracts
Extraction Technician Qualifications
In the cannabis industry, extraction technician jobs can range from entry-level to advanced positions.
- For entry-level extraction jobs, a high school diploma or equivalent education may be required. Lab experience is not required but preferred.
- For advanced extraction jobs, companies are looking for applicants with a relevant degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, biology or a related STEM field.
If you want to work as an extraction technician, you must be the following job qualifications:
- Must be 21 years old
- Must be able to pass a background check
- High school diploma or equivalent (required)
- Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in chemistry or related science field (preferred)
- Lab experience (preferred)
- Inventory management experience
- Management experience
- Strong math, computer, communication, and teamwork skills
- Must be able to lift between 50 to 75 lbs.
- Must be eligible to obtain a cannabis worker permit (if applicable)
Cannabis Extraction Technician Job Salary
An extraction technician’s salary will vary depending on the company, job experience, education, and job description.
In the United States, the average base salary for an extraction technician is about $17 per hour.
Extraction Technician Salary Range: $14-$25/hour
Cannabis Extraction Technician Job Benefits
Cannabis extraction technician jobs may come with competitive benefits packages including:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Personal development program
- Employee discounts
- Life and disability insurance
- Paid parental leave
- 401(k)
How to Find Work as an Extraction Technician
The cannabis extraction job market is competitive. If you meet the minimum age requirement and live in a state that has a legal medical and/or recreational cannabis market, you can apply for the job. Here is the best way to get hired:
- Research the industry: Research your state and local regulations, the cannabis industry, and the extraction segment, in particular. What techniques are used? What concentrates are made? Understanding the plant and the processes can prepare you for the work ahead.
- Gain relevant job experience or education: For entry-level cannabis jobs, applicants can start by working at a processing facility as an entry-level packager and work their way up toward an extraction job. A science background is preferred. We recommend earning a degree in a related science field to have a better chance of getting hired.
- Network: Attend industry events to meet local business owners in person. Online, you can join industry groups and connect with business owners and industry employees on LinkedIn.
- Create a resume and cover letter: Create a resume and cover letter detailing your relevant skills and education. Create a unique resume for every job you apply for. Carefully consider the job ad to include relevant skills.
- Apply: Find cannabis extraction technician jobs at Marijuana Job Finder.
Find a Cannabis Extraction Job at Marijuana Job Finder
Ready to find work in cannabis processing and manufacturing? Do you have the skills needed to work in a state-compliant processing facility?
Marijuana Job Finder can help you land the career of your dreams!
Find cannabis jobs in every major segment including cultivation, manufacturing, and retail at Marijuana Job Finder.