Packaging Associate - 1st Shift

• Base Pay $18.50 / Hour
• Employee Type Full-Time Non-Exempt

The Packaging Associate reports directly to the Packaging Lead or Supervisor and is responsible for preparing cannabis products for retail sale by accurately weighing, packaging, labeling, and sealing them in compliance with state regulations and company standards. This role involves operating packaging and pre-roll machinery, ensuring product quality, and maintaining a clean and compliant workspace. Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.

• Weigh and Package Cannabis Products
  - Accurately weigh cannabis flower or infused products and place into compliant packaging based on predetermined weight increments (grams to ounces).
• Operate Packaging and Pre-roll Machinery
  - Set up, operate, and clean pre-roll and automated packaging machines per SOPs; monitor for consistency, correct jams, or errors, and perform minor adjustments as needed.
• Perform Quality Control Checks
  - Inspect finished products for quality, seal integrity, labeling accuracy, and presentation before final approval.
• Maintain Clean and Sanitary Work Areas – Follow SOPs to clean and sanitize equipment, tools, and packaging workstations regularly throughout the shift to ensure health and safety compliance.
• Document and Record Production Data
  - Accurately log packaging activity, product counts, and weight data into tracking sheets or digital systems for compliance and inventory control.

• Support Cross-Functional Tasks – Assist other departments and areas such as pre-roll assembly, labeling, order fulfillment, etc. as needed.
• Material Handling and Workstation Setup
  - Load/unload products and materials from carts and machines; stage supplies to support efficient packaging workflows.
• Participate in Continuous Improvement
  - Contribute ideas to improve processes, reduce waste, and enhance team performance; adapt to process updates and new technology or equipment.
• Follow and Enforce Compliance Protocols
  - Uphold all applicable state cannabis regulations, including packaging limits, labeling requirements, and security protocols.
• Perform Other Duties as Assigned
  - Complete special projects or support other areas as directed by management.

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a state Registered Agent Card or equivalent state credentials
• Demonstrated understanding of, or willingness to learn, cannabis industry compliance standards including packaging, labeling, and product safety regulations
• Proven ability to focus on repetitive tasks with precision and accuracy in a fast-paced environment
• Able to meet daily production deadlines and goals with minimal supervision
• Able to sit or stand for extended periods, lift up to 25 pounds, and perform repetitive hand motions
• Able to communicate clearly and respectfully with team members and supervisors

• Basic knowledge of Excel, Word, and other general software for data entry and compliance logging.
• Previous work in a licensed cannabis packaging, trimming, or post-harvest department strongly preferred.
• Experience in food, pharmaceutical, or similar GMP/regulated environment is a plus.
• Familiarity with METRC, Bio Track, or similar cannabis compliance systems.

Ascend Wellness Holdings (AWH) is a vertically integrated cannabis cultivator, processor and provisioning center operator with assets in Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania. We seek to foster a robust and inclusive cannabis industry through a premium, unmatched customer-focused retail experience. We are…