Genetic counselor

Labxchange; United States; On-site; USD 73,800 - 90,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Paid time off

Retirement plans

Job summary

An innovative genetic counseling service in the United States is seeking a genetic counselor. Your role will involve guiding individuals through complex genetic information, assessing risks, and providing comprehensive counseling. The ideal candidate will have a degree in genetics and experience in patient communication. The position is expected to offer competitive compensation and an opportunity to make a significant impact in healthcare.

Qualifications

• 4 years of education in genetics or a related discipline is typically required.
• Experience in genetic counseling is essential.
• Ability to explain complex genetic information to patients.

Responsibilities

• Guide individuals in understanding genetic test results.
• Assess patient risks based on genetic health history.
• Provide support and counseling throughout testing processes.

Skills

Genetic counseling

Risk assessment

Data analysis

Patient communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Genetics or related field

Job description

Genetic counselors are like navigators, guiding individuals and families through the complex world of inherited traits. They assess genetic risks, explain DNA findings, and support informed decisions, playing a vital role in healthcare and research.

Also known as

Certified genetic counselor, Prenatal and pediatric genetic counselor, Reproductive genetic counseling coordinator

Overview

Rapid growth

Duties

Explore frequently performed duties to experience a day in the life of this career.

• Explain testing
• Assess risk
• Provide counseling
• Report findings
• Analyze lab results and explain genetic findings to patients and doctors. You’ll break down complex data into clear, actionable insights.

Skill groups

Skills are learned in a school setting or from experience on the job.

Career in Action

Grey Genetics was founded to empower individuals and families navigating the complex world of genetic testing. By offering independent genetic counseling, Grey Genetics bridges the gap between testing technologies and personalized care, ensuring patients truly understand their genetic results and the impact on their health and family. Free from lab affiliations, the service prioritizes patient choice, and privacy—providing thoughtful guidance in an often overwhelming healthcare landscape. Learn more

"I started Grey Genetics because I saw firsthand how essential it is for patients to have independent, unbiased support when making sense of their genetic testing results—genetics isn’t black and white, it’s grey."

Eleanor Griffith, MS, CGC - Founder and genetic counselor, Grey Genetics

Education

New hires typically require the following education to perform the duties of this career.

Study duration: 4 years

These are the typical and alternative paths people in this career have taken.

We're working with industry experts to identify the most important education steps required for this career. Check back soon for more details!

Salary

The salary range below reflects the typical pay reported for this career in the United States. However, individual salaries often vary by company and location.

Average annual entry-level salary: $82k

Adjust the slider to see how the salary range increases with years of experience. Entry-level <1 year | Mid-level 5 years | Senior-level 9+ years

It's not just about salary. Consider benefits like healthcare, paid time off (vacation, sick leave), retirement plans, stock options, bonuses, overtime eligibility, flexible schedules, and perks like on-site amenities. These extras can make a big difference in your career choice.

Outlook in the US

Is demand for this career expected to grow or shrink? Here's what the outlook currently looks like for this career in the United States.

Outlook: Rapid growth

Job openings: 300

This level of demand is due in part to the following reasons:

• Genomic research and personalized medicine are driving demand for genetic counselors.
• More people are seeking genetic counseling as awareness of inherited health risks grows.
• Wider insurance coverage for genetic testing and counseling has made these services more accessible, boosting demand.

The global genetic testing market is projected to grow 12.3% annually, reaching $55.23B by 2032.

Employment of genetic counselors is projected to grow 16% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

"I always tell students interested in genetic counseling: trust your instincts and stay resilient. This field requires both scientific knowledge and deep empathy."

Deanna Darnes, MS, LCGC - Genetic counselor and clinical trial specialist at Scripps Translational Research

Related careers

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• Microbiologist
• Bioinformatics scientist

Sources

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