How to Become a Budtender in Illinois (2022)

Minimum Requirements for Illinois Dispensary Workers

Working in the legal marijuana industry can be sticky, and not just from the resin on your fingers. 

Dispensaries in Illinois have to adhere to Illinois state law and regulations when hiring employees. All employees must undergo annual training and are expected to remain informed about the laws and regulations regarding marijuana sales in Illinois. 

While knowledge of cannabis and a history working in customer service or retail will definitely make you stand out as a candidate, there are only a few requirements for Illinois cannabis agents. 

To work in for a dispensary in Illinois, applicants will need to: 

1. Be 21 or older 
2. Pass a federal and state criminal background check 
3. Complete Illinois Responsible Vendor Training 

Illinois Dispensary Training Requirements

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) requires that all dispensary workers successfully complete an Illinois Responsible Vendor Training from a state-approved facility within 90 days of employment. Cannabis agents are expected to complete this training every year they work within the Illinois cannabis industry.

Training is available statewide, with in person and virtual options available.

A list of approved state vendors can be found here.

Start Your Training Today | On Demand Illinois Responsible Vendor Training Available 

What Dispensary Job is Right for You?

While there are many jobs in the cannabis industry, for those dreaming of working for one of Illinois’s premier medical and recreational dispensaries, there are a few different options available. 

Not sure what dispensary job is right for you? Here’s a breakdown of dispensary jobs in Illinois.

1. Budtender 

Budtenders are the bartenders of the marijuana industry. They are cannabis connoisseurs and help customers get the most from their cannabis products. Budtenders are the face of the dispensary and responsible for creating positive customer experiences. 

You might be a solid candidate as budtender if you are: 

• Knowledgeable about cannabis strains and their effects 
• Friendly and personable
• Excellent at customer service 
• A former retail or service industry worker 
• Interested in the cannabis industry and eager to learn more
  

     
     2. Dispensary Manager 

No one wants a poorly run dispensary. Dispensary managers make sure to keep things running smoothly. From hiring staff to making sure everything is in compliance, a dispensary manager job is perfect for those hoping to work their way up in the cannabis industry. They get to see the ins and outs of how dispensaries operate and work with a network of industry professionals. 

You might be solid candidate for dispensary manager jobs if you: 

• Are a strong leader 
• Have past managerial experience (retail experience is a plus!) 
• Are ready to grow in the cannabis industry 

Accelerated Dispensary Bootcamp

The cannabis industry is still in its early years. Breaking into the industry can be challenging for newcomers. Standing out in the ever growing cannabis field is necessary to land your dream dispensary gig! 

Illinois Cannabis Training Center’s revolutionary Accelerated Dispensary Bootcamp can give you the edge you need over your competitors. The immersive experience gives you the chance to train in an engaging, simulated dispensary setting. 

Bootcamp participants complete 8 hours of training and will earn their Responsible Vendor Certificate while getting hands-on training and practicing with industry equipment and software such as BiotrackTHC. Once you complete the program, we offer ongoing coaching and support to get hired in the Illinois cannabis industry. Alumni receive exclusive access to webinars, job portals, helpful guides, and more.

Start Your Cannabis Career Today

Before you can land your dream dispensary job, you’ll need to get the proper training. We offer  on-demand training options to start your journey in the wonderful world of cannabis today! 

Whether you want to enroll in our boot camp, complete your Illinois Responsible Vendor Training, or network with industry leaders, Illinois Cannabis Training Center is here to support you and help get you started on your cannabis career journey today!