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Medical Genetics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Medical Genetics information

See California salary details

$27.6K

$44.5K

$57.7K

How much do medical genetics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical genetics in California is $44,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $47,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical geneticist?

Medical geneticists are specialized doctors who diagnose, counsel, and manage patients with genetic disorders or inherited conditions. They use genetic testing and family history to help identify diseases caused by changes in DNA, such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or certain types of cancer. Medical geneticists also guide patients and families on the risks of inherited conditions and the best strategies for treatment or prevention. Their work often involves collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical geneticist?

To thrive as a Medical Geneticist, you need a deep understanding of genetics, molecular biology, and clinical diagnostics, typically supported by a medical degree and board certification in medical genetics. Familiarity with genetic testing platforms, laboratory information systems, and bioinformatics tools is essential. Exceptional analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help in interpreting complex data and counseling patients. These competencies are crucial to accurately diagnose genetic conditions and guide personalized patient care.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in medical genetics, and how can they be addressed?

Medical genetics professionals often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving genetic research, interpreting complex genetic data, and communicating findings to patients and healthcare teams in an understandable way. To address these challenges, professionals frequently participate in ongoing education, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and utilize advanced genetic databases and decision-support tools. Building strong communication skills and maintaining close collaboration with genetic counselors, laboratory staff, and clinicians are also essential for effective patient care.

What is the difference between Medical Genetics vs Genetic Counselor?

AspectMedical GeneticsGenetic Counselor
Required CredentialsMedical degree (MD or DO), specialized training in geneticsMaster's degree in genetic counseling, certification (ABGC)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research institutionsClinics, hospitals, private practices
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, academic, researchHealthcare, patient support services
Primary FocusDiagnosing and managing genetic disordersProviding genetic risk assessment and counseling

Medical Genetics involves diagnosing and managing genetic conditions, often requiring a medical degree and clinical expertise. Genetic Counselors focus on communicating genetic information, assessing risks, and supporting patients through counseling, typically with a master's degree. Both roles are integral to healthcare but serve different functions within the genetics field.

How much do medical geneticists make?

Medical geneticists typically earn a median annual salary of around $90,000 to $200,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Salaries tend to be higher in academic, research, or specialized clinical environments, and board certification can influence earning potential.

Is medical genetics a good career?

Medical genetics is a specialized field that involves diagnosing and managing genetic disorders, often requiring advanced education such as a medical degree and training in genetics. It offers opportunities in clinical practice, research, and laboratory work, with a growing demand due to advances in genetic testing and personalized medicine.

What are the career paths in medical genetics?

Medical genetics offers career paths such as clinical geneticist, genetic counselor, research scientist, and laboratory director. These roles typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in genetics, molecular biology, and patient care, often working in hospitals, research institutions, or diagnostic laboratories.

What can I do with a medical genetics degree?

A medical genetics degree prepares individuals for careers in clinical genetics, research, genetic counseling, and laboratory work. Graduates can work in hospitals, research institutions, or biotech companies, often requiring certification or licensure depending on the role. Skills in genetics, counseling, and laboratory techniques are essential for these positions.

What cities in California are hiring for Medical Genetics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Medical Genetics job openings:

Infographic showing various Medical Genetics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,453 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Division of Medical Genetics - Biochemical Geneticist Faculty

Direct Jobs

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$180 - $260/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Adjunct, Clinical X, HS Clinical, In Residence Faculty Series

The Division of Medical Genetics in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals is seeking a biochemical geneticist to join the Section of Biochemical Genetic Medicine. Appointments may be made at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor rank in the Adjunct, Clinical X, Health Sciences (HS) Clinical, or In Residence faculty series. Academic rank and faculty series will be commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience. Successful candidates will join a leading academic medical center and a multidisciplinary biochemical genetics program that includes a dedicated nurse clinical coordinator, nurse practitioner, metabolic dietitians, genetic counselor, and genetic counseling assistant. The position may include clinical responsibilities at both the San Francisco and Oakland campuses and offers the opportunity to contribute to the Department's missions of excellence in patient care, education, research, and service.

Minimum Qualifications
  • MD, DO, or equivalent medical degree
  • Eligible for or in possession of a California medical license by the time of hire
  • Board certified or board eligible in Clinical Biochemical Genetics by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG) or an equivalent certifying body
Preferred Qualifications
  • Board certified or board eligible in Clinical Genetics and Genomics (MD) by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG) or an equivalent certifying body
  • Board certified or board eligible in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics or an equivalent certifying body
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