Going to Pot: Minnesota Seeking Candidates to Run the State’s Office of Cannabis Management

Minnesota will start weeding through applicants' resumes for the state's first head honcho of hemp.

The application period opened Friday for an executive director of Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management, the regulatory agency that will oversee the state's adult-use market, the Medical Cannabis Program, Minnesota Careers posted on its website. 

"The work you’ll do is more than just a job," the job description proclaims. "Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota."

Minnesota became the 23rd state to make marijuana use legal for adults 21 years of age or older at the end of May. 

Candidates have until July 31 to apply for the post, which will be filled by Gov. Tim Walz. 

The person chosen "will have responsibility for building a new state agency from the ground up and play a key leadership role in establishing and regulating an emerging new cannabis market in Minnesota," the ad says.

The annual salary for the post ranges from $105,757 and $151,505 and is Monday through Friday. 

Remote work is an option for the position but will require travel about 10% of the time.

Minimum qualifications include eight years of professional experience in "regulatory oversight, public administration, business or law enforcement. A bachelor’s degree or higher in public administration, business administration or a related field can substitute for two years of experience."

Also, "knowledge of the cannabis and/or hemp regulatory environment."

A background check is required.