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Cancer Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Hope

Genetic Counselor - Cancer

Irvine, CA

Two (2) or more years of experience in genetic counseling ( or has demonstrated equivalent mastery), one (1) or more years of experience in cancer genetic counseling specialty. * Specialized courses ...

City of Hope

Genetic Counselor - Cancer

Irvine, CA

Two (2) or more years of experience in genetic counseling ( or has demonstrated equivalent mastery), one (1) or more years of experience in cancer genetic counseling specialty. * Specialized courses ...

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Cancer Counselor information

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How much do cancer counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for cancer counselor in the United States is $60,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cancer counselor do?

A Cancer Counselor is a mental health professional who provides emotional support, coping strategies, and guidance to individuals affected by cancer, including patients and their families. They help clients manage the psychological impact of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, fear, and grief. Cancer Counselors may also assist with practical concerns, connect clients to resources, and facilitate communication between patients, families, and healthcare teams. Their goal is to improve overall well-being and quality of life throughout the cancer journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cancer counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cancer Counselor, you need a background in counseling, psychology, or social work, often supported by a relevant degree and state licensure. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), counseling frameworks, and sometimes certifications like Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is typical. Exceptional empathy, active listening, and strong communication skills help build trust and provide effective support to patients and families. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering compassionate, informed guidance to individuals coping with cancer diagnoses and treatment.

What are some common challenges cancer counselors face when supporting patients and their families?

Cancer Counselors often encounter emotionally intense situations, as they help patients and their loved ones process difficult diagnoses, treatment decisions, and the psychological impact of cancer. Navigating conversations about prognosis, end-of-life care, and uncertainty can be challenging, requiring strong empathy and resilience. Counselors also collaborate closely with medical teams, which means balancing clinical information with emotional support. Staying updated on best practices in cancer care and mental health, as well as managing caseloads, are ongoing aspects of the role.

What degree do you need to work with cancer counselors?

Cancer counselors typically need at least a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many roles also require a master's degree and relevant licensure or certification to provide counseling and support to patients effectively.

What cities are hiring for Cancer Counselor jobs?

Cities with the most Cancer Counselor job openings:

What states have the most Cancer Counselor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cancer Counselor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cancer Counselor jobs?

For Cancer Counselor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cancer Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cancer Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 36% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 63% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,409 per year, or $29 per hour.

Genetic Counselor - Cancer

Irvine, CA

City of Hope
Hospitals • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about City of Hopeexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

City Of Hope rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

City of Hope Orange County is transforming cancer treatment by bringing world-class expertise and specialized care closer to home. Supported by a regional network of care, our 11-acre academic cancer campus in Irvine is home to City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center, our outpatient cancer center, and Orange County's only cancer specialty hospital.

With the opening of the new hospital (in late 2025) , the full continuum of advanced cancer care-from prevention through survivorship-is now available in Orange County for the first time, eliminating the need to travel for lifesaving treatment. Seamlessly connected to our outpatient cancer center, the new clinical research hospital features 73 inpatient beds, advanced surgical suites, groundbreaking clinical trials, and holistic services such as rehabilitative therapy and spiritual care. This isn't standard cancer care. This is lifesaving cancer care. This is Hope.

Position Summary:

As part of a multidisciplinary team, provide information to individuals and families about genetics and cancer risk, facilitate genetic testing, and provide psychosocial support to cope with cancer risk.  Contributes value to each of the CCG domains (clinical, research, and education). Bilingual in Spanish preferred. 

As a successful candidate, you will:  

Clinical

  • Collection of detailed family histories (both maternal and paternal).

  • Retrieval and review of medical records for key affected individuals.

  • Pedigree assessment and recognition of cancer/cardiovascular susceptibility syndromes.

  • Use appropriate models to estimate genetic and empiric cancer/cardiovascular risk. 

  • Assist with informed consent discussion, including benefits of genetic knowledge and family risk communication, privacy, confidentiality, and discrimination issues.

  • Educate patients about the medical and psychosocial implications of cancer/cardiovascular risk and genetic testing.

  • Advise and assist the attending physician regarding selection of laboratory, coordination of testing and interpretation of test results.

  • At the direction of the attending physician, provide patient education regarding risk-appropriate medical management and screening options.

  • Assist the attending physician with psychosocial assessment.

  • Provide post-test education, counseling, and support.

  • Dictate medical consultation reports for counselor-only appointments and for post-visit results disclosures.

  • Moderate and participate in case conferencing

  • Field inquiries related to genetic testing/counseling services from patients and the public

  • Participate in the training of students (genetic counseling interns, fellows)

Research

  • Complete required research compliance training to be able to participate in research collaborations

  • Train for and facilitate informed consent for CCG Research Registry

  • Data collection and entry for CCG Research Registry

  • Participate in CCG research meetings

Education

  • Complete and provide critical feedback on Intensive Course (IC)

  • Participate in IC onsite workshops

  • Participate in weekly IC update conferences

Your qualifications should include: 

  • Master of Science in Genetic Counseling with ABGC board certification or MSN/MN and APRN license
  • Two (2) or more years of experience in genetic counseling (or has demonstrated equivalent mastery), one (1) or more years of experience in cancer genetic counseling specialty.
  • Specialized courses and clinical training in the genetics of cancer.
  • Currently possess a permanent California Department of Public Health Genetic Counseling Licensure/Certification or equivalent for nursing candidates; or, currently possess a nationally-recognized Accreditation/Licensure/Certification in Genetic Counseling with the ability to obtain a permanent California Department of Public Health Genetic Counseling Licensure/Certification within six (6) months from the date of hire
  • Experience with Epic, Microsoft Office and FamGenix (preferred)

City of Hope employees pay is based on the following criteria: work experience, qualifications, and work location

City of Hope is an equal opportunity employer

To learn more about our Comprehensive Benefits, please click here

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About City of Hope

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

City of Hope is an independent biomedical research and treatment organization for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a leader in bone marrow transplantation and immunotherapy such as CAR T cell therapy. City of Hopes translational research and personalized treatment protocols advance care throughout the world. Human synthetic insulin, monoclonal antibodies and numerous breakthrough cancer drugs are based on technology developed at the institution. AccessHope, a subsidiary launched in 2019 serves employers and their health care partners by providing access to City of Hopes specialized cancer expertise. City of Hope is ranked among the nations Best Hospitals in cancer by U.S. News & World Report and received Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Its main campus is located near Los Angeles, with additional locations throughout Southern California and in Arizona.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duarte, CA, US

Year founded

1913

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