Job Profile: Cannabis Nurse

A Cannabis Nurse is a healthcare professional who specializes in the use of medical cannabis to treat and manage symptoms of serious medical conditions. They work with patients to evaluate their medical history, discuss potential treatments, and recommend the best products and dosing regimens to address their needs. They also provide education and support to patients and their families regarding the use of medical cannabis.

This article was originally published Fenruary 23, 2023 and last updated on December 27, 2025.

Cannabis Nurse Career Card
What does a Cannabis Nurse do?
What education does a Cannabis Nurse need?
What experience do you need to be a Cannabis Nurse?
Do cannabis nurses actually work with marijuana?
How do you become a Cannabis Nurse?
How much does a Cannabis Nurse make?
What are the highest paying states for Cannabis Nurses?
Professional Resources for Cannabis Nurses

Cannabis Nurse Career Card

Salary: Approximately $60,500 – $90,300 per year

Level: Mid-level

Primary Duties: implements a comprehensive pest management strategy

Education Requirements: bachelor’s degree in horticulture or agriculture

Career Progression: potential to progress to higher roles

What does a Cannabis Nurse do?

Cannabis Nurses provide specialized care and expertise to cannabis patients. Specific job duties of these healthcare professionals vary depending on the setting and patient population.

Specific Job Duties:

Educating patients on the therapeutic use of cannabis and related products
Evaluating patients for cannabis therapy eligibility
Developing individualized cannabis treatment plans
Monitoring and managing the patient response to cannabis treatments
Counseling patients on lifestyle and dietary modifications to support their cannabis therapy
Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety and well-being
Keeping up with the latest research and developments in the cannabis field
Advocating for patient rights and access to cannabis therapy

What education does a Cannabis Nurse need?

The education to be a typically includes pharmacology, physiology, pharmacokinetics, physiology, and pathophysiology courses. They must also be knowledgeable in cannabis-related topics such as the endocannabinoid system, the different types of cannabis products, and the potential risks and benefits associated with cannabis use. In addition, Cannabis Nurses need to have a working knowledge of applicable laws and regulations relating to cannabis use.

Cannabis Nurse education also includes clinical skills such as patient assessment, patient education, counseling, and advocacy. Cannabis Nurses need to be able to assess the risks and benefits of cannabis use for each patient and to provide appropriate guidance and support. They must also be able to advocate for the patient’s rights and ensure that their patients receive the highest quality of care possible.

What experience do you need to be a Cannabis Nurse?

In order to become a cannabis nurse, you must have a valid nursing license and experience in the medical field. Most cannabis nurses also have a pharmacology, botanical medicine, or holistic health background. Additionally, many cannabis nurses have specialized training in cannabis science, cannabinoid therapeutics, and the endocannabinoid system.

Do cannabis nurses actually work with marijuana?

Yes, cannabis nurses do work directly with marijuana. Cannabis nurses provide patient care, education and consulting services related to the use of medical marijuana. They may also provide treatment plans, monitor patient progress and develop medical marijuana-related policies.

How do you become a Cannabis Nurse?

In order to become a cannabis budtender, you must first meet the legal requirements in your state or province. Depending on where you live, this may include obtaining a license to dispense medical marijuana or a license to work in a dispensary. You will also need to be knowledgeable about cannabis products, including the various strains, their effects, and how they are used. Finally, you may need to complete a training program or get certified in cannabis retailing.

How much does a Cannabis Nurse make?

Generally, cannabis nurses make between $45,000 and $90,000 per year. However, the salary of a cannabis nurse depends on a number of factors, including experience, location, and the type of facility they work in.

The US Bureau of Labor statistics (BLS) reports the median annual wage for all Registered Nurses (RNs) is $93,600. And most RNs earn between $66,030 and $135,320 a year. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) earn between $47,960 and $80,510, with an average of $62,340 (BLS). While specilized nurses with master’s degrees typically earn an average of $132,050 per year (BLS). However, the BLS does not report specific infomation on nurses in the cannabis field.