Now Hiring: Pot Consultant for Washington

Washington is gearing up for legalized marijuana sales in December, and they're looking to hire a consultant on all things marijuana. Job requirements include: knowledge of how pot should be sold, tested and packaged, and an overall understanding of marijuana. John Farley of Washington's Liquor Control Board—the agency charged with developing rules for the pot industry—says that pot-related convictions will probably not disqualify potential candidates—but "heinous felonies" might. "There are some technical aspects with marijuana we could use a consultant to help us with," says board spokesman Mikhail Carpenter. The board is seeking consulting in four categories, including "product and industry knowledge," testing, statistical analysis and development of regulations. They're hoping to award a single contract to someone who can cover all of these areas, but bidders who are strong in one category may team up with those who are strong in another. Candidates of all types have come from all over, from former dispensary workers to marijuana analytical chemists. Even Ed Rosenthal, co-founder of High Times magazine, teamed up with a corporate lawyer for a chance at the contract. However, there's one major stipulation: due to a conflict of interest, whoever accepts the position would not be able to obtain a state license to grow, process or sell cannabis while serving as consultant. Bids are due on February 15 and the contract will be awarded in March.