Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager

Position Summary The Cannabis Extraction Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing all cannabis extraction, distillation, solventless production, and post-processing operations within a licensed extraction facility.

This role requires advanced technical extraction knowledge, strong safety leadership, operational oversight, and hands-on expertise with extraction and refinement equipment.

Operating within Oregon’s regulatory framework, the Extraction Manager ensures consistent, high-quality product output while maintaining strict compliance with OLCC regulations, METRC requirements, and internal SOPs.

This position manages day-to-day extraction operations, production planning, equipment oversight, staff development, and process optimization.

The Extraction Manager drives continuous improvement across hydrocarbon extraction, wiped film distillation, solventless rosin production, and downstream refinement processes to ensure efficiency, compliance, and scalable production growth.

Key Responsibilities Extraction and Processing Operations

• Lead and manage daily extraction and post-processing operations in alignment with SOPs and production targets
• Operate and oversee hydrocarbon extraction systems (Luna Tech) and wiped film distillation units
• Oversee solventless production processes, including rosin pressing, curing, cold storage management, and workflow coordination
• Monitor and adjust process parameters to optimize yield, terpene retention, potency targets, and overall product consistency
• Stage, prepare, and verify raw materials and in-process inventory for extraction and refinement
• Coordinate workflow between material prep, extraction, distillation, solvent recovery, post-processing, and packaging teams
• Review production metrics and implement efficiency improvements to support output and scalability
• Support new product development initiatives and evolving extraction techniques Quality Control
• Ensure intermediate and finished products meet established standards for potency, purity, consistency, cleanliness, and visual presentation
• Verify accurate labeling, batch tracking, test results, and material transfers
• Identify and resolve abnormalities such as contamination risks, solvent residual concerns, color inconsistencies, yield variances, or terpene degradation
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action implementation when quality deviations occur
• Maintain strict adherence to product specifications and internal quality benchmarks Compliance and Documentation
• Ensure all extraction and processing activities comply with OLCC regulations, internal SOPs, sanitation standards, safety requirements, and security protocols
• Oversee accurate and timely batch data entry in METRC and internal tracking systems, including inputs, outputs, waste, and reconciliation
• Maintain strict chain-of-custody controls and inventory accuracy across all production stages
• Review and approve production logs, deviation reports, and compliance documentation
• Ensure extraction rooms and storage areas remain inspection-ready and audit compliant at all times Equipment Maintenance and Safety
• Oversee daily cleaning and sanitation of extraction equipment, distillation systems, and workspaces
• Lead routine equipment inspections, safety audits, and preventative maintenance planning
• Coordinate equipment calibration and performance verification for extraction and distillation systems
• Escalate mechanical issues, safety hazards, or repair needs to Maintenance and Senior Leadership
• Enforce PPE standards, safe solvent handling procedures, and chemical storage compliance
• Promote a proactive safety culture focused on hazard prevention and regulatory adherence Team Leadership and Collaboration
• Supervise extraction technicians, distillation operators, and post-processing staff
• Provide structured training on equipment operation, SOP compliance, safety standards, and quality expectations
• Conduct performance evaluations, coaching sessions, and skill development planning
• Partner with Packaging, Inventory, Operations, and Sales teams to align production with demand forecasting
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and workforce planning for extraction operations
• Promote accountability, operational excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement across the department Qualifications Required
• Must be 21+ and able to obtain and maintain an active OLCC Marijuana Worker Permit
• 3+ years of experience in cannabis extraction, processing, or manufacturing environments
• Hands-on experience operating wiped film distillation units, Luna Tech hydrocarbon extraction machines, and solventless rosin production systems
• Strong understanding of extraction science, solvent recovery, distillation refinement, and cannabis processing fundamentals
• Demonstrated leadership experience in a production or technical environment
• Ability to lift 40+ pounds, stand for extended periods, and work in variable temperature production environments
• Strong documentation, analytical, and SOP implementation skills Preferred
• Prior experience in a licensed Oregon cannabis extraction facility
• Strong working knowledge of METRC or other seed-to-sale tracking systems
• Experience scaling extraction output and optimizing yield efficiency
• Experience supporting R&D, product formulation, or process innovation
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies Working Conditions
• Exposure to loud machinery, variable temperatures, solvents, and repetitive manual tasks
• Daily handling of cannabis plant material, concentrates, distillates, and finished products
• PPE required, including gloves, protective eyewear, hairnets, and site-specific safety equipment
• Schedule may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, or holidays based on production needs Compensation and Benefits
• Access to health, dental, and vision benefits
• Paid time off and employee discounts Powered by JazzHR