As the hemp industry expands in Tennessee, many people are interested in becoming a budtender at one of the state's hemp and CBD shops. Tennessee cannabis laws are unique—recreational and medical cannabis are illegal in Tennesee, and low THC oil is available in only very strictly regulated circumstances. However, hemp laws permit shops to sell legal intoxicating products like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC. (P.S. Our FREE Medical Cannabis Class covers these regulations and more!)

Budtenders in Tennessee primarily work in hemp shops and CBD stores (like LabCanna), where they educate customers about legal cannabis alternatives. While there is a small low-THC oil market, the state lacks a regulatory and distribution network for those who need it. Additionally, recreational marijuana remains illegal, so budtenders focus on guiding customers through hemp-derived products, some of which offer intoxicating effects, including:

• Delta-8 THC: A hemp-derived cannabinoid known for its mild, relaxing effects.
• Delta-10 THC: Another legal cannabinoid that provides a more energizing, uplifting experience. Read more about Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC here.
  
  

Budtenders play a key role in explaining Tennessee's hemp and cannabis regulations and helping customers make informed, safe choices.

The 2018 Farm Bill, federally legalized hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. This includes cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC, which can produce intoxicating effects but remain legal under federal law. Tennessee has not enacted specific regulations on these products, meaning federal guidelines apply. As a result, hemp shops in Tennessee can legally sell these products, creating a unique opportunity for budtenders to educate customers on safe cannabis alternatives.

So, how do you secure a job in the Tennesee hemp market? Here is your step-by-step guide! 

Budtending requires strong customer service skills, so make sure to emphasize any retail experience you have. Highlight key skills such as handling cash transactions, engaging with customers, managing inventory, and upselling products. Use specific examples and action words to make these skills pop on your resume and ensure your experience stands out at a glance.

A solid understanding of hemp-derived products is essential for budtenders. Familiarize yourself with popular cannabinoids like CBD, Delta-8, and Delta-10 THC, as well as the various ways they can be consumed (e.g., tinctures, edibles, topicals). This knowledge will make you more confident in recommending products to customers.

Taking classes or certifications, even free ones like our Medical Cannabis Class, can give you a competitive edge. Mentioning specific courses shows potential employers that you’re committed to learning and have foundational knowledge of cannabis laws and products. This is a great way to demonstrate your expertise and readiness to work in the cannabis industry.

Online applications can be competitive, so don’t be afraid to get out there in person. Walk into local hemp shops and dispensaries, introduce yourself, and ask about job openings. Networking face-to-face can leave a stronger impression than a digital application, helping you build connections in the industry that may lead to job opportunities.

Budtenders in Tennessee earn around $15-$18 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of approximately $31,000 to $37,000 for full-time roles. Some shops offer employee discounts and bonuses, which can boost overall earnings.

Starting a career as a budtender in Tennessee offers a unique opportunity to be part of Tennessee's growing cannabis industry. By building customer service skills, understanding hemp laws, and gaining knowledge about legal products, you’ll be prepared for success. For anyone serious about this career, our FREE Medical Cannabis Class provides valuable insights to help you thrive as a Tennessee budtender!