Genetic Counselor I

Schedule Details

40 hours/week (flexible hours—can be discussed during the interview process)

Pay Range

$38.20 – $57.30 per hour

Major Responsibilities

• Provides comprehensive genetic counseling and testing to patients, including interpreting clinical/laboratory findings and conveying them to patients and providers.
• Researches information regarding a particular disorder and relays clinical/genetic information in a meaningful way.
• Assesses psychosocial situations and offers support.
• Educates patients regarding the risks and benefits of specific medical procedures so they can provide informed consent.
• Refers families to other resources in the community, state, or country when necessary and maintains client contact for follow-up.
• Provides written documentation of genetic consult to patient and/or physician.
• Works directly with laboratory providers in ordering necessary genetic or related tests and evaluates the test results once received.
• Coordinates with non-ACL labs to arrange for reference testing and other services not provided by ACL.

Licensure, Registration and/or Certification Required

• Active Candidate Status for ABGC board certification.

Education Required

• Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling from an Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling–accredited program.

Experience Required

• No experience required

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required

• Knowledge of federal, state, and municipal laws, regulations, and standards that may impact the delivery of services for genetics.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate with a variety of people under stressful circumstances with diplomacy and tact.
• Excellent organizational and presentation skills.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Basic computer skills including the use of computer applications.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Mental and emotional demands can be high as the genetic counselor deals with high patient anxiety, stress, and sorrow. May be exposed to chemical, mechanical, and/or blood and body fluids; therefore, protective clothing and equipment must be worn as necessary. Position may require travel, exposing the incumbent to severe road and weather conditions. Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job.