The Budtender/Elevation Specialist plays a vital role in delivering the Pink Balloon experience, serving as the direct connection between our brand and our customers. Through genuine interaction, thoughtful guidance, and a deep understanding of our products, they create an environment that feels welcoming, compassionate, and real. Their presence helps shape a culture that is forward-thinking, inclusive, and rooted in generosity of spirit. Be the reason they come back! In addition to elevating each customer interaction, Elevation Specialists support the Management Team in the day-to-day operations of the store, consistently executing within established policies, procedures, and operational standards.
Duties and Responsibilities
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Provides knowledge, expertise, guidance, and a personalized experience to each customer by explaining the potential benefits of the Cannabis products offered.
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Ensures customer questions or concerns are resolved quickly and completely. Communicate any requests or unresolved concerns to management immediately.
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Accountable for accurately receiving, coordinating, and fulfilling customer orders by utilizing the Point of Sale (POS) and inventory tracking systems in compliance with company, local, and state policies.
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Adapts to varied sales volume and stays active by initiating continued learning activities, creating an engaging environment, and assisting in keeping the dispensary properly stocked, clean, tidy, and in operating order, while keeping a “Customer first” approach. Be the reason they come back.
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Meets/exceeds day-to-day sales metrics by following the customer experience selling cycle with custom product suggestions. This includes meeting individual and team-centric sales targets.
- Perform store opening and closing procedures (such as cleaning, tablet placement/removal, and prepping workstations)
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Assist management staff in ensuring all procedures are being followed to reflect regulatory and compliance standards.
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Fosters a positive work environment, treating everyone with dignity and respect, while perpetuating a curiosity for “everything cannabis”.
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Performs other duties as assigned by the Manager and/or Store Lead.
Qualifications
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Strong understanding of cannabis strains (Indica, Sativa, Hybrid), cannabinoids (THC, CBD), and terpenes
- Knowledge of cannabis product types including flower, concentrates, edibles, and topicals
- Ability to explain product effects and benefits in a clear, customer-friendly way to support each customer’s desired experience
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1–3 years of experience in retail, hospitality, or customer service (cannabis experience a plus)
- Passion for education with a commitment to staying current on cannabis knowledge, trends, and state regulations
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Customer-first mindset
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Experience using POS systems (Dutchie preferred)
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Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and select holidays
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Physically able to stand for up to 8 hours and lift up to 15 pounds
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Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid NJ CRC employee badge — required before your first shift.
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Must pass state-mandated background checks and fingerprinting as required by NJ law.
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Commitment to adhering to all company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
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Ability to follow all state regulations and compliance requirements
- Must be at least 21 years of age
Experience
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1–3 years of experience in retail or customer-facing roles preferred
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Previous cannabis industry or budtender experience is a plus, but not required
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Experience using Point of Sale (POS) systems (e.g., Dutchie) is a plus but not required
Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude
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Customer-obsessed mindset—creates meaningful, authentic connections and builds trust with every interaction
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Clear, confident communicator—both written and verbal
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Highly organized with strong attention to detail
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Strong numerical confidence—accurate with counts, cash, audits, and data entry
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Adaptable and flexible—thrives in fast-paced, high-volume environments
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Able to multitask, prioritize, and stay composed under pressure
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Strong problem-solving mindset—identifies issues and escalates appropriately
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Collaborative team player who can also work independently
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Learns quickly and embraces continuous improvement
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Service-driven mindset—you care about getting it right every time
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Maintains professionalism, accountability, and a positive attitude in all situations
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Experience with Dutchie POS and Alpine IQ Loyalty is a plus
Reports to:
Inventory and Operations Manager
Schedule:
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Up to 8-hour shifts
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Day and Evening shifts
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Weekend and Holidays availability
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Benefits
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Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for full time (30+hours/week)
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Life Insurance for full time employees (30+hours/week)
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Paid Time Off (PTO)
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Employee Discount
- Continuing education reimbursement (grow your knowledge, grow your career)
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Comprehensive training program
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Opportunities for career advancement
Pink Balloon is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
