Lead Budtender - Full Time

Lead Budtender Job Description Position Title: Lead BudtenderDepartment: Retail OperationsReports To: General ManagerHourly Pay + FLSA Status: $20.00/Hour Non-ExemptLocation: Minnesota Adult-Use Cannabis Retail Facility Position Summary The Lead Budtender is responsible for delivering exceptional customer service while supporting daily retail operations, staff leadership, compliance oversight, and operational execution within the dispensary. This role acts as a working leader on the sales floor and serves as a key point of contact for Budtenders during assigned shifts. The Lead Budtender assists management with coaching, training, inventory accuracy, compliance adherence, customer experience, and opening/closing procedures while maintaining all Minnesota cannabis regulations and company standards. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Customer Service & Sales Provide outstanding customer service and product guidance to all guests. Educate customers on cannabis products, consumption methods, potency, dosing, and safe usage practices. Assist customers in selecting products based on preferences and desired experiences. Maintain strong knowledge of: Flower Concentrates Edibles Vape products Topicals Hemp-derived cannabinoid products Promote company loyalty programs, promotions, and featured products. Resolve customer concerns professionally and escalate issues when necessary. Lead Responsibilities Serve as shift leader during assigned shifts. Provide direction and support to Budtenders throughout daily operations. Assist with onboarding and training of new employees. Coach team members on: Customer interactions POS accuracy Compliance procedures Product knowledge Sales techniques Monitor staff productivity and floor coverage. Support opening and closing procedures. Ensure all operational checklists are completed accurately. Communicate operational concerns or incidents to management promptly. Assist with delegation of daily tasks and shift priorities. Help maintain a positive, compliant, and team-oriented work environment. Compliance & Regulatory Responsibilities Verify all customers are 21+ using approved identification procedures. Follow all Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) regulations and company SOPs. Ensure all cannabis products are properly packaged, labeled, and stored. Maintain accurate POS and inventory practices. Immediately report compliance concerns, inventory discrepancies, or suspicious activity. Follow all cash handling and security procedures. Ensure restricted access areas remain secure. Assist management during inspections or audits when necessary. Inventory & Operational Support Assist with inventory counts, audits, and reconciliation processes. Verify product accuracy during receiving and stocking. Maintain organized and compliant product displays. Monitor inventory levels and communicate restocking needs. Assist with product pulls, returns, and waste procedures in accordance with company policy and state regulations. Cash Handling Responsibilities Process transactions accurately and efficiently. Maintain accurate cash drawer balancing procedures. Follow all company cash management protocols. Report discrepancies immediately to management. Required Qualifications Must be at least 21 years of age. High school diploma or equivalent required. Minimum 1 year of customer service or retail experience preferred. Previous cannabis industry experience preferred. Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Basic computer and POS system proficiency. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism. Physical Requirements Ability to stand for extended periods of time. Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally. Ability to bend, twist, reach, and perform repetitive motions. Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Work Environment Fast-paced retail cannabis environment. Frequent interaction with customers and staff. Exposure to cannabis products and odors. Strict adherence to security and compliance procedures required at all times. Benefits Eligible employees may receive: Health, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off (PTO/VAC/Holidays) Employee discounts Employment Disclaimer This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs. Employment with the Company is at-will, meaning either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law. Nothing contained in this document or any related policy, procedure, compensation program, or communication creates an employment contract or guarantee of continued employment. The Company reserves the right to modify schedules, job assignments, compensation programs, operational procedures, reporting relationships, and benefits in accordance with applicable law and business needs. Employees are required to comply with all company policies, safety standards, operational procedures, and all applicable local, state, and federal cannabis regulations as a condition of employment. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation of any kind. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local law. The Company is committed to maintaining a professional, respectful, and inclusive workplace free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Reasonable accommodations may be provided in accordance with applicable law. Employees requiring accommodations should notify Human Resources or management.