Job Profile: Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager
A Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager oversees the extraction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from cannabis plants to produce concentrates, oils, and other infused products. They ensure compliance with safety regulations, optimize extraction processes, and manage lab operations efficiently.
What is a Cannabis Extraction Lab?
A Cannabis Extraction Lab is a specialized facility where cannabinoids, terpenes, and other valuable compounds are extracted from cannabis plants to create concentrates, oils, and infused products. These labs use advanced extraction techniques such as:
- Solventless Methods – Include rosin pressing and ice water hash extraction.
- CO₂ Extraction – A clean, solvent-free method using supercritical carbon dioxide.
- Ethanol Extraction – Efficient for high-volume production of full-spectrum extracts.
- Hydrocarbon Extraction – Uses solvents like butane or propane for potent concentrates like shatter and wax.
What Does a Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager Do?
A Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager oversees the entire extraction process in a cannabis lab, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with regulations. Their primary role is to manage operations, optimize extraction methods, and maintain strict safety and legal standards. A Lab Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring the production of high-quality cannabis extracts for medical and recreational markets.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Extraction Process Management
- Oversee the extraction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds using methods like CO₂, ethanol, or hydrocarbon extraction.
- Optimize extraction techniques to improve yield, purity, and efficiency.
- Monitor equipment settings, solvent levels, and environmental conditions.
2. Quality Control & Compliance
- Ensure all extracted products meet potency, purity, and safety standards.
- Work with lab technicians to perform regular testing for contaminants and consistency.
- Maintain compliance with state and federal cannabis regulations, including OSHA and GMP standards.
3. Lab Operations & Team Management
- Train and supervise lab technicians, assigning tasks and ensuring productivity.
- Develop and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Manage inventory of raw materials, solvents, and finished products.
4. Equipment Maintenance & Safety
- Oversee routine maintenance and calibration of extraction machines and lab equipment.
- Implement strict safety protocols to prevent chemical hazards and accidents.
- Ensure proper storage and handling of hazardous materials.
5. Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain accurate records of extraction processes, product yields, and test results.
- Prepare reports for compliance audits and management review.
- Track and manage inventory using lab software.
Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager Education
To become a Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager individuals must comprehensively understand the cannabis industry.
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience in cannabis extraction, pharmaceuticals, or food processing industries.
- In-depth knowledge of extraction techniques, lab equipment, and safety protocols.
- Strong leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Skills and Abilities of a Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager
A Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager needs a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and regulatory knowledge to oversee extraction operations effectively.
Technical Skills:
- Extraction Techniques – Proficiency in CO₂, ethanol, hydrocarbon, and solventless extraction methods.
- Chemical & Lab Knowledge – Understanding of chemistry, cannabinoids, terpenes, and purification processes.
- Equipment Operation & Maintenance – Experience with extraction machines, chromatography, and filtration systems.
- Quality Control & Testing – Ability to analyze potency, purity, and contaminants in cannabis extracts.
- Compliance & Safety Regulations – Knowledge of OSHA, GMP, state cannabis laws, and hazardous material handling.
Leadership & Management Skills:
- Team Leadership – Ability to train, supervise, and manage lab technicians.
- Process Optimization – Identifying ways to improve extraction efficiency and yield.
- Problem-Solving – Troubleshooting technical issues in extraction and lab operations.
- Project Management – Overseeing production schedules, inventory, and workflow.
Soft Skills & Abilities:
- Attention to Detail – Ensuring precision in measurements, documentation, and compliance.
- Strong Communication – Coordinating with teams, regulators, and company leadership.
- Organizational Skills – Managing lab records, reporting, and inventory tracking.
- Adaptability – Keeping up with evolving cannabis regulations and technology.
How Much Do Cannabis Extraction Lab Managers Make?
The exact salary for a Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager will vary depending on the employer, location, education, and individual experience. However, the Cannabis Salary Guide reports an extraction lab manager’s salary typically ranges from $72,700 to $121,800 per year.
| Source | Salary Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| ZipRecruiter | $25,500 to $113,500 | $63,587 |
| Salary dot com | $50,375 to $80,596 | $65,957 |
| Average | $64,772 |
Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager Salary Range
| Extraction Position | 2023 Annual Salary | 2024 Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Director of Extraction | $120,500 | $124,250 |
| Extraction Lab Manager | $94,500 | $97,250 |
| Extraction Lead | $69,750 | $71,600 |
| Extraction Technician | $60,050 | $62,150 |
What Is the Job Outlook for Cannabis Extraction Lab Managers?
The job outlook for Cannabis Extraction Lab Managers is highly promising, driven by the rapid growth of the cannabis industry. With increasing legalization for medical and recreational use, demand for cannabis extracts—such as oils, concentrates, and infused products—is rising, creating strong opportunities for skilled professionals in extraction.
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