Lead Budtender

Position Summary:

The Lead Budtender / Shift Lead plays a critical frontline leadership role, supporting the Store and Assistant Managers by overseeing day-to-day shift operations, coaching sales staff, and ensuring a compliant, customer-first retail environment. In addition to all general budtender duties, this position acts as a point-of-contact for staff questions, enforces SOPs, and ensures team alignment with sales goals, inventory standards, and compliance protocols. This role is ideal for experienced cannabis retail professionals seeking a pathway into management.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Shift Oversight:

Act as on-site lead during assigned shifts, ensuring the sales floor operates smoothly and efficiently. Serve as the escalation point for customer issues, staff questions, or operational challenges in the absence of store management. Oversee budtenders during opening, mid-shift, and closing duties, ensuring completion of all checklists and SOPs. Monitor daily team performance, reinforce best practices, and provide real-time coaching and feedback to budtenders. Support daily sales tracking, staff assignments, and register cash handling and reconciliations.

Customer Experience & Sales Execution:

Provide exceptional customer service and assist in handling VIP or high-traffic situations during peak hours. Ensure team members are actively upselling, following proper compliance procedures, and delivering brand-appropriate service. Assist with managing customer flow and wait times to optimize the in-store experience.

Compliance & SOP Adherence:

Enforce NJCRC regulations and internal SOPs across all front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) operations. Monitor ID verification, transaction limits, purchase restrictions, and other compliance-critical functions during shift. Ensure METRC protocols are being followed at all times and discrepancies are escalated immediately. Assist with audits, shift checklists, and daily logs to maintain compliance and operational accuracy.

Inventory & Operational Coordination:

Coordinate with Inventory and Reception staff to ensure smooth communication and order readiness. Monitor floor stock levels and direct restocking from the secure inventory room when needed. Assist with packaging, labeling, and back-of-house preparation work to support sales continuity. Report low inventory levels or product issues to management for reorder or resolution.

Team Development & Support:

Mentor and onboard new budtenders and provide training support on products, procedures, and compliance. Foster a positive and inclusive work culture and lead by example in professionalism and teamwork. Participate in team meetings, product training, and performance reviews as needed.

Qualifications:

Must be 21 years or older and eligible to work in a New Jersey licensed cannabis facility. High school diploma or GED required; additional education or retail certifications a plus. 2+ years of retail or hospitality experience required; 6+ months in cannabis retail preferred. 1+ year of leadership or supervisory experience strongly preferred. In-depth knowledge of cannabis products, effects, and safe usage preferred (training available). Strong understanding of NJCRC regulations and cannabis retail compliance (or willingness to learn quickly). Proven ability to manage shifts, lead teams, and multitask in a fast-paced, regulated environment. Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Availability for a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Work Environment & Schedule:

This role requires on-site presence and leadership during assigned shifts. Schedules will rotate and include weekends and closing shifts. Physical requirements include standing for long periods, lifting up to 25 lbs, and using hands for typing, packaging, and inventory handling. Equal Opportunity Employer We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability status.

Job Types:

Full-time, Part-time Benefits:

Employee discount People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person