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Genetic Counselor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Working closely with geneticists, metabolic specialists, genetic counselors, dieticians, and multidisciplinary teams, the ARNP ensures evidence-based care plans and seamless integration of precision ...

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Genetic Counselor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$37.6K

$99.9K

$244.7K

How much do genetic counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for genetic counselor in Seattle, WA is $99,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $108,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a genetic counselor?

A genetic counselor assesses and counsels families and individuals on their genetic risk for diseases and health defects. You can work with couples who are experiencing fertility problems or who have a family history of genetic disease, individuals who need to confirm whether they have a genetic disorder or possess the genes to pass them along, and people who experience health problems, birth defects, developmental delays, or other issues related to genetic factors. You will examine research findings and test results, and communicate with patients and family members regarding medical history or health conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a genetic counselor?

To thrive as a Genetic Counselor, you need a master's degree in genetic counseling or a related field, along with in-depth knowledge of genetics, genomics, and counseling techniques. Familiarity with genetic testing technologies, laboratory information systems, and certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to clearly communicate complex information help build trust and guide patients through difficult decisions. These competencies ensure accurate risk assessment, compassionate patient support, and effective collaboration with healthcare teams.

What are some common challenges faced by genetic counselors when communicating complex genetic information to patients?

Genetic counselors often encounter the challenge of translating complex scientific concepts and genetic test results into clear, understandable language for patients from diverse backgrounds. They must be sensitive to patients’ emotional responses, cultural beliefs, and varying levels of health literacy, all while ensuring the information is accurate and actionable. Building trust and establishing a supportive environment is crucial, as patients may be making significant health or family planning decisions based on this information. Ongoing professional development and strong communication skills are essential to effectively navigate these challenges.

What is the difference between Genetic Counselor vs Genetic Technician?

AspectGenetic CounselorGenetic Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in genetics or counseling, certification (ABGC or NSGC)Associate's or bachelor's degree in genetics or biology
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, counseling sessionsLaboratories, research facilities
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, genetic testing companies, hospitalsResearch labs, biotech companies

Genetic Counselors and Genetic Technicians both work in genetics but have different roles. Genetic Counselors focus on patient counseling, requiring advanced degrees and certification, while Genetic Technicians support lab work with less formal education. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is genetic counseling a good career?

Genetic counseling is a growing healthcare profession that involves helping patients understand genetic information and its implications. It requires strong communication skills, a master's degree in genetic counseling, and certification, with job prospects expected to increase as genetic testing becomes more common. The role offers a meaningful career in healthcare with opportunities for specialization and collaboration with medical teams.

What can I do with a genetic counselor degree?

A genetic counselor degree prepares individuals to assess and interpret genetic information, provide risk assessments, and support patients in understanding genetic conditions. Career options include working in healthcare settings, research, or laboratories, often requiring strong communication skills and certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling.

What qualifications do you need to be a genetic counselor?

To become a genetic counselor, individuals typically need a master's degree in genetic counseling or a related field from an accredited program, along with certification from the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC). Strong communication skills, knowledge of genetics, and clinical experience are also important for the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Genetic Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Genetic Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Genetic Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Genetic Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Genetic Counselor jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Genetic Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Genetic Counselor job openings in Seattle, WA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,935 per year, or $48 per hour.

$97K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Seattle Children's rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 1,066 rated hospitals


Job description

Coordinate, administer, and deliver medical genetics counseling to patients and families at risk for hereditary disorders supporting the Seattle Children's Prenatal Diagnostic & Treatment Program. Assess recurrence risks and recommend medical or genetic testing based on analysis of the risk, benefit, and cost. Review implications with the patient and family and provide crisis intervention regarding unexpected genetic conditions. Educate physicians and health professionals and ensure appropriate patient referral and care. Assist in program development within the collaborative team of the Prenatal Center and educate staff (internal and external) as it relates to Genetic Counseling including the orientation and mentoring of Interns/Residents as well as new staff. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Rely on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.
Required Education and Experience
Master of Science in Genetic Counseling.
Five (5) years of experience in Health care or a related field as determined by Seattle Children's.
Demonstrated skills and experience in teaching using the Adult Learning Principles.
Required Credentials
Board certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling or American Board of Medical Genetics OR Must have Active Candidate Status for the ABGC Board Examination and must successfully obtain ABGC Certification within two (2) ABGC exam cycles or within three (3) years after start of employment.
Washington State Licensure as a Genetic Counselor OR Provisional Washington State Licensure as a Genetic Counselor.
Preferred
Experience in pediatric and specifically perinatal genetics.
Compensation Range
$97,665.00 - $146,497.00 per year
Salary Information
This compensation range was calculated based on full-time employment (2080 hours worked per calendar year). Offers are determined by multiple factors including equity, skills, experience, and expertise, and may vary within the range provided.
Disclaimer for Out of State Applicants
This compensation range is specific to Seattle, positions located outside of Seattle may be compensated differently depending on various factors
Benefits Information
Seattle Children's offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 403(b), life insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more. Additional details on our benefits can be found on our website www.seattlechildrens.org/careers/benefits.
About Us
Hope. Care. Cure. These three simple words capture what we do at Seattle Children's - to help every child live the healthiest and most fulfilling life possible. Are you ready to engage with a mission-driven organization that is life-changing to many, and touches the hearts of all? #HOPECARECURE
Our founding promise to the community is as valid today as it was over a century ago: we will care for all children in our region, regardless of the families' ability to pay. Together, we deliver superior patient care, advance new discoveries and treatments through pediatric research, and serve as the pediatric and adolescent, academic medical center for Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho - the largest region of any children's hospital in the country.
U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Seattle Children's among the nation's best children's hospitals. For more than a decade, Seattle Children's has been nationally recognized in key specialty areas. We are honored to be one of the nation's very best places to care for children and the top-ranked pediatric hospital in Washington and the Pacific Northwest.
As a Magnet designated institution, we recognize the importance of hiring and developing great talent to provide best-in-class care to the patients and families we serve. Our organizational DNA takes form in our core values: Compassion, Excellence, Integrity, Collaboration, Equity and Innovation. Whether it's delivering frontline care to our patients in a kind and caring manner, practicing the highest standards of quality and safety, or being relentlessly curious as we work towards eradicating childhood diseases, these values are the fabric of our culture and community. The future starts here.
Our Commitment
Seattle Children's welcomes people of all experiences, backgrounds, and thoughts as this is what drives our spirit of inquiry and allows us to better connect with our patients and families. Our organization recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes based on merit without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
The people who work at Seattle Children's are members of a community that seeks to respect and celebrate all the qualities that make each of us unique. Each of us is empowered to be ourselves.
Seattle Children's is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Workplace and Affirmative Action Employer.

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About Seattle Children's

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Based in Seattle, Washington, Seattle Children’s comprises a leading pediatric hospital, research institute, and foundation dedicated to the care and cure of childhood illness. The system is internationally recognized for cutting‑edge clinical care in cardiology, oncology, genetics, and rare disease, alongside world-class translational research in areas such as immunology, neuroscience, and infectious disease.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1907