Cultivation Specialist at Illicit Gardens – LAFAYETTE, New Jersey

Company: Illicit Gardens
Pay: $18 per hour
Schedule: Full-time; Monday–Friday
Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid sick leave/PTO, paid holidays

Illicit Gardens is a licensed cultivation and production company operating within New Jersey’s regulated cannabis industry. We’re dedicated to producing high-quality products through sustainable practices, operational excellence, and strict compliance with all state and local regulations.

We’re expanding our New Jersey team and are looking for a reliable and detail-oriented Cultivation Specialist to support daily cultivation operations and ensure optimal plant health and productivity.

The Cultivation Specialist supports all aspects of the cultivation process, from propagation through harvest. This role is responsible for ensuring that all plants are cared for in accordance with company standards, environmental controls, and the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission’s (CRC) compliance requirements.

Plant Care & Maintenance

• Monitor plant health throughout all growth stages.

• Perform pruning, defoliation, trellising, transplanting, and general plant maintenance.

• Identify and assist in addressing pest, disease, or nutrient-related issues in coordination with the cultivation management team.

Environmental Monitoring

• Maintain optimal temperature, humidity, lighting, and irrigation conditions.

• Operate and troubleshoot environmental and irrigation systems as directed.

Harvesting & Processing

• Assist with harvest preparation, harvesting, drying, trimming, and curing processes.

• Accurately record yields, waste, and other cultivation metrics.

Compliance & Safety

• Follow all company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and New Jersey CRC regulations.

• Maintain accurate documentation and seed-to-sale tracking through approved state systems (e.g., METRC).

• Ensure cleanliness and safety within all cultivation areas and adhere to PPE and sanitation requirements.

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• 1–2 years of experience in horticulture, agriculture, or a regulated cultivation environment.

• Strong understanding of plant care, environmental controls, and cultivation best practices.

• Ability to stand, bend, and lift/move up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred:

• Previous experience in commercial cannabis cultivation.

• Familiarity with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques and nutrient programs.

• Experience with METRC or other cultivation/traceability software systems.

• Must be 21 years of age or older in accordance with New Jersey state law.

• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Dependable and proactive communicator.

• Works effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and compliance.

• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.

• Professional development, training, and advancement opportunities.

• A collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment.

Illicit Gardens is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and comply fully with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.
We do not inquire about or rely on salary history during the hiring process, consistent with New Jersey law.