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Genetics Counseling Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Genetics Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Genetics Tutor

Charlottesville, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Genetics Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Genetics Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Genetics Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Genetics Tutor

Virginia Beach, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes probabilistic reasoning and connects genetics to genetic counseling, forensic science, evolutionary biology, and personalized medicine applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Pediatrician - Genetics * Seeking a full-time clinical geneticist interested in evaluating and ... Active involvement in educating medical students, residents, and genetic counseling students with ...

Pediatric Geneticist

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$215K - $225K/yr

... Genetics. This role offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative multidisciplinary team that includes clinical geneticists, genetic counselors, advanced practice providers, and dedicated ...

... Genetics. This role offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative multidisciplinary team that includes clinical geneticists, genetic counselors, advanced practice providers, and dedicated ...

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Showing results 1-20

Genetics Counseling information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$87.1K

$213.2K

How much do genetics counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for genetics counseling in Virginia is $87,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $94,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Genetics Counseling vs Genetic Testing Specialist?

AspectGenetics CounselingGenetic Testing Specialist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in genetics or related field, certification (ABGC or NSGC)Relevant certifications, often with a background in laboratory sciences or genetics
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, private practices, counseling settingsLaboratories, testing facilities, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, hospitals, clinicsGenetic testing laboratories, biotech companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding counseling roles, patient support, risk assessmentTesting procedures, laboratory work, sample analysis

Genetics Counseling focuses on guiding patients through genetic information, risk assessment, and emotional support, often requiring counseling skills and certification. In contrast, Genetic Testing Specialists primarily work in laboratories analyzing genetic samples, emphasizing technical expertise in testing procedures. Both roles are integral to genetic healthcare but differ in their work environment, responsibilities, and required credentials.

What can I do with a genetic counseling degree?

A genetic counseling degree prepares individuals to work as genetic counselors, providing risk assessment, education, and support to patients with genetic conditions. Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, research settings, or public health, often requiring certification from relevant professional boards. The role involves counseling patients, interpreting genetic tests, and staying current with advances in genetics and genomics.

What is genetics counseling?

Genetics counseling is a process where trained professionals help individuals and families understand and adapt to the medical, psychological, and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease. Genetic counselors assess the risk of inherited conditions, explain testing options, and provide support for decision-making. They work with people who may be at risk for a variety of genetic disorders, helping them make informed choices about their health care and family planning.

How do you become a genetic counselor?

To become a genetic counselor, you typically need a master's degree in genetic counseling or a related field from an accredited program, which includes coursework and supervised clinical experience. Certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) is often required or preferred for employment in many settings.

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

Genetics counselors often face the challenge of translating complex genetic concepts into language that patients without a scientific background can understand. Navigating emotional responses and providing support during discussions about sensitive topics, such as hereditary risks or potential outcomes, is also a key aspect of the role. Counselors must tailor their communication style to each patient's needs, ensuring informed decision-making while remaining empathetic and clear. Collaborating closely with physicians, laboratory staff, and other healthcare professionals is essential to provide accurate and comprehensive care.

Is there a demand for genetic counselors?

The demand for genetic counselors is strong and expected to grow significantly due to advances in genetic testing and personalized medicine. Employment opportunities are available in hospitals, clinics, research institutions, and laboratories, often requiring certification and specialized training. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a faster-than-average job growth for genetic counselors over the next decade.

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

To thrive as a Genetic Counselor, you need a master's degree in genetic counseling or genetics, knowledge of human genetics, and board certification. Familiarity with genetic testing technologies, pedigree analysis software, and patient data management systems is crucial. Strong interpersonal, communication, and empathetic counseling skills help build trust and effectively guide patients through complex information. These abilities are essential for providing accurate risk assessments and emotional support to individuals making important healthcare decisions.

How much money does a genetics counselor make?

Genetics counselors typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $120,000 depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certification and advanced training can also influence earning potential.
What are popular job titles related to Genetics Counseling jobs in Virginia? For Genetics Counseling jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Genetics Counseling jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Genetics Counseling jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Genetics Counseling jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Genetics Counseling job openings:
Infographic showing various Genetics Counseling job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,063 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Genetic Counselor - Human Genetics - Days

Genetic Counselor - Human Genetics - Days

VCU Health System

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

The Genetic Counselor provides genetic counseling to patients referred for clinical genetic services. The Genetic Counselor coordinates the dissemination of clinical genetic information to the physicians, laboratories, other counselors and office staff at VCU. The Genetic Counselor coordinates the dissemination of clinical genetic information to patients and physicians in the community.
The Genetic Counselor participates in the education and training of genetic counseling students and other students in post graduate education in the VCU School of Medicine.

Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire:
Active Candidate Status with the American Board of Genetic Counselors (ABGC) to sit for the National Examination*
*Must obtain certification within 2 years of date of hire into position

Active Virginia Genetic Counselor license


Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment:
Certified Genetic Counselor (CGC) by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC)

Active Virginia Genetic Counselor license


Experience REQUIRED: N/A
Experience PREFERRED:
Previous experience of one (1) or more years in clinical practice
Education/training REQUIRED:
Masters of Science in Genetic Counseling from an ABGC certified training program
Education/training PREFERRED: N/A
Independent action(s) required:
Performs daily assignments independently.
Seeks guidance from Genetic Counselor Lead and/or department leadership as needed.
Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable): N/A
Additional position requirements: N/A
Age Specific groups served: All
Physical Requirements (includes use of assistance devices as appropriate):
Activities: Prolonged sitting, Climbing (steps, ladder, other)
Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking
Emotional: Fast pace environment, Able to handle multiple priorities, Frequent and intense customer interactions, Noisy environment, Able to adapt to frequent change

Days

EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran


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