Budtender

Job Title: Budtender
Department: Retail Operations
Reports To: General Manager / Assistant General Manager
Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

Budtenders are the heart of the Elysian experience—the first and last face our customers see. They are not only ambassadors of the Elysian brand but trusted guides for the many brands we carry. From check-in to checkout, Budtenders create a warm, welcoming environment, helping guests navigate the sales floor and discover the products that best suit their individual needs and preferences. This role requires strict adherence to all Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) regulations and company policies especially around inventory management, cash handling, and in-store operations. We are seeking individuals with sales experience who are competitive, inclusive, and customer focused. Cannabis experience not required. The ideal candidate will have a passion for cannabis education, a positive attitude, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, highly regulated setting.

All team members are responsible for the upkeep of the store and company property. This may include but is not limited to cleaning bathroom facilities, breakroom, emptying trash receptacles into the dumpster, and keeping the parking lot clear of garbage. Duties also include any reasonable request made by the management team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Customer Service & Sales

• Greet and engage customers in a professional, courteous, and friendly manner.
• Assess customer needs and provide tailored product recommendations based on individual preferences, desired effects, and consumption methods.
• Explain product features, effects, dosage guidelines, and usage instructions for flower, edibles, concentrates, topicals, tinctures, and accessories.
• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of product offerings, new arrivals, and cannabis trends to ensure accurate guidance and upselling opportunities.
• Create a welcoming and inclusive experience for first-time buyers and returning customers.

Compliance & ID Verification

• Verify age and identification of all customers in accordance with state and local cannabis laws.
• Ensure all transactions are recorded accurately and legally through the state-mandated point-of-sale (POS) system and/or track-and-trace software (e.g., METRC).
• Monitor customer purchase limits and ensure compliance with daily quantity restrictions.
• Follow all dispensary protocols related to cannabis sales, safety, and record-keeping.

Point of Sale & Transactions

• Operate the POS system to ring up sales accurately, apply discounts, and process various payment methods.
• Count cash, handle change accurately, and reconcile cash drawers at the beginning and end of shifts.
• Accurately weigh, label, and package cannabis products in accordance with legal standards.

Inventory Support

• Assist with stocking and organizing shelves, checking for expiration dates, and rotating inventory (FIFO).
• Report low-stock items, damaged products, or quality concerns to management.
• Participate in inventory counts and audits as required.

Cleanliness & Store Presentation

• Maintain a clean and organized retail space including sales floor, product displays, consultation areas, and employee-only areas.
• Ensure that product displays and promotional signage are up-to-date and aligned with marketing initiatives.

Team Collaboration & Professionalism

• Attend staff meetings and training sessions to stay current on product knowledge, sales techniques, and regulatory changes.
• Communicate effectively with coworkers and management regarding customer issues, inventory needs, or process improvements.
• Represent the brand with professionalism, discretion, and adherence to confidentiality requirements.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years old and legally eligible to work in the cannabis industry.
• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in retail, hospitality, or customer service preferred; cannabis experience is a plus.
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to learn quickly and retain large amounts of product and regulatory information.
• Comfortable using POS systems and basic computer programs.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and compliance.
• Must pass all required background checks and obtain a valid cannabis worker permit or badge (if applicable by state).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
• Ability to lift, carry, and move boxes or product containers weighing up to 25 lbs.
• Regular exposure to cannabis, cannabis-related odors, and handling of cannabis products.

Work Schedule

• Flexible availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• May be required to work occasional overtime, depending on business needs.