Budtenders are the dispensary’s front-line staff members who are in charge of conducting transactions, educating consumers about the products, and making product suggestions. Since recreational marijuana use became legal in Oregon, there has been a rise in both the need for knowledgeable budtenders and their pay. But how much money do Portland, Oregon, marijuana sellers make?
The average pay for a budtender in Portland is $15 per hour, according to Glassdoor. However, this can change based on things like experience, geography, and the size and reputation of the dispensary. While some budtenders only make $12 per hour, some may make up to $20 or more.
However, the issue goes beyond the hourly rate. A budtender’s income can be greatly increased by the incentives and gratuities that are frequently offered by dispensaries. Additionally, some dispensaries provide perks including paid time off, health insurance, and retirement programs.
It’s crucial to remember that not everyone is suited for a profession in budtending. It calls for in-depth familiarity of cannabis products and their effects, as well as exceptional customer service abilities. Budtenders must also adhere to severe rules and restrictions established by the state of Oregon.
Starting a small indoor grow operation might be a good choice for people who want to work in the cannabis industry but don’t want to be budtenders. However, it’s crucial to consider the expenses related to maintaining a grow room. This can include tools like lights, fans, and irrigation systems in addition to expenses for electricity and water. The average monthly expense to operate a grow room is thought to be around $1,500.
Dispensaries have their own expenses as well, some of which can be written off as tax deductions. These could include the price of goods sold, pay and perks for employees, rent, and utility costs. Federal income tax, however, is a significant expense that dispensaries cannot write off because of Section 280E of the IRS Tax Code.
Therefore, how can dispensaries avoid 280E? Being a nonprofit organization is one choice because nonprofits can write off expenses that for-profit companies cannot. Focusing on supplementary services that are exempt from 280E, including consulting or education, is an additional choice.
In conclusion, for individuals with the required abilities and understanding, working as a budtender can be a successful job. Before entering the cannabis sector, it’s crucial to consider the expenses and advantages of running a grow room or dispensary.