H-1B Visa Genetic Counselor Jobs
Genetic Counselor jobs with H-1B visa sponsorship require employers to file a certified Labor Condition Application before your petition reaches USCIS. The role qualifies as a specialty occupation because a master's degree in genetic counseling is the standard entry credential, making it a strong fit for H-1B visa classification.
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Get Access To All JobsSUMMARY
Possesses and utilizes cognitive skills, training and in-depth knowledge of genetic principles and counseling techniques in order to help diagnose and counsel for a spectrum of genetic disorders, reproductive alternatives, and pregnancy exposures. Incumbent is expected to adhere to System and department compliance policies, and any applicable laws and regulations. This description covers the essential functions of the position. Incumbent is expected to perform other similar and related duties as assigned.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
1) ACCOUNTABILITIES
Demonstration and commitment to organization service standards. Thorough knowledge of theories and principles of human genetics. Knowledge of counseling techniques. Demonstrates proficiency in pedigree analysis, risk assessment, screening, testing, counseling and identification of support resources. Familiarity with general indications, limitations and methodology of common tests used in the areas of cytogenetics, biochemical genetics and molecular genetics. Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. Develops positive relationships with patients, families, visitors and other members of the healthcare team by utilizing effective communication skills. Consistently displays a respectful, empathetic and caring attitude. Demonstrates ability to manage and solve problems.
2) NATURE & SCOPE
Performs comprehensive patient-family assessments: collects and evaluates medical and family histories; obtains and reviews medical records to confirm reported diagnoses; evaluates complex medical and genetic literature from varied sources and incorporates into clinical practice; performs psychosocial assessment during genetic consultation. Provides an appropriate explanation of relevant hereditary factors and addresses previously held misconceptions about inheritance; estimates and explains the patient's risk; facilitates referrals for other family members who seek information; explains the available testing options including risks, benefits and limitations of testing. Coordinates requests for laboratory services and conveys results to patients and referring physicians; distinguishes complex laboratory results requiring action; seeks appropriate supervision for representation/participation in action; provides reassurance and support to the patient.
3) NATURE & SCOPE
Facilitates continuity of patient care and makes referrals as appropriate. Documents patient care by writing detailed consultation reports conveying complex genetic concepts to patients and referring physicians; writes chart notes and keeps statistics on outcomes of testing results and records patient interactions. Maintains patient confidentiality according to Practice Guidelines and HIPAA. Demonstrates appreciation of cultural diversity in all counseling and support activities. Communicates to patients and customers that they are a high priority even during busy times.
4) TEACHING & SUPERVISION
Actively involved in the training and supervision of medical students, medical residents, and genetic counseling students currently enrolled in an accredited master's level training program. Serves as a role model using an assertive, open and receptive communication style for genetic counseling students, medical students, and medical residents.
5) PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Remains current within the field by participating in departmental Journal Club. Attending appropriate lectures, conferences and seminars within the hospital system. Actively maintaining certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling if ABGC/ABMG certified. Serves as a role model for professional conduct. Pursues educational and/or research opportunities within the general and medical community. Identifies educational opportunities for self and colleagues. Pursues opportunities to organize, support, promote or otherwise be involved in educational conferences and other activities for genetic counselors. Helps to identify and realize professional goals for the counseling staff.
6) PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Initiates and contributes to efforts to improve the overall quality of the workplace. Prepares and disseminates educational materials for patients and professionals as needed. Establishes and maintains liaisons with other genetic professionals, laboratories or services working in genetics.
7) RESEARCH & PUBLISHING ARTICLES
Provides research ideas and helps realize research goals of the department.
REQUIREMENTS
Master's Degree from an American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) accredited program.
Minimum of 5 years of experience. Has accumulated at least 75 points according to Points Scale.
LICENSE:
ABGC Required
ABMG Required
Note: The compensation range(s) in the table below represent the base salaries for all positions at a given grade across the health system. Typically, a new hire can expect a starting salary somewhere in the lower part of the range. Actual salaries may vary by position and will be determined based on the candidate's relevant experience. No employee will be paid below the minimum of the range. Pay ranges are listed as hourly for non-exempt employees and based on assumed full time commitment for exempt employees.
Minimum – Midpoint – Maximum
$71,427.00 – $88,712.00 – $112,923.00
Baystate Health is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.
SUMMARY
Possesses and utilizes cognitive skills, training and in-depth knowledge of genetic principles and counseling techniques in order to help diagnose and counsel for a spectrum of genetic disorders, reproductive alternatives, and pregnancy exposures. Incumbent is expected to adhere to System and department compliance policies, and any applicable laws and regulations. This description covers the essential functions of the position. Incumbent is expected to perform other similar and related duties as assigned.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
1) ACCOUNTABILITIES
Demonstration and commitment to organization service standards. Thorough knowledge of theories and principles of human genetics. Knowledge of counseling techniques. Demonstrates proficiency in pedigree analysis, risk assessment, screening, testing, counseling and identification of support resources. Familiarity with general indications, limitations and methodology of common tests used in the areas of cytogenetics, biochemical genetics and molecular genetics. Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. Develops positive relationships with patients, families, visitors and other members of the healthcare team by utilizing effective communication skills. Consistently displays a respectful, empathetic and caring attitude. Demonstrates ability to manage and solve problems.
2) NATURE & SCOPE
Performs comprehensive patient-family assessments: collects and evaluates medical and family histories; obtains and reviews medical records to confirm reported diagnoses; evaluates complex medical and genetic literature from varied sources and incorporates into clinical practice; performs psychosocial assessment during genetic consultation. Provides an appropriate explanation of relevant hereditary factors and addresses previously held misconceptions about inheritance; estimates and explains the patient's risk; facilitates referrals for other family members who seek information; explains the available testing options including risks, benefits and limitations of testing. Coordinates requests for laboratory services and conveys results to patients and referring physicians; distinguishes complex laboratory results requiring action; seeks appropriate supervision for representation/participation in action; provides reassurance and support to the patient.
3) NATURE & SCOPE
Facilitates continuity of patient care and makes referrals as appropriate. Documents patient care by writing detailed consultation reports conveying complex genetic concepts to patients and referring physicians; writes chart notes and keeps statistics on outcomes of testing results and records patient interactions. Maintains patient confidentiality according to Practice Guidelines and HIPAA. Demonstrates appreciation of cultural diversity in all counseling and support activities. Communicates to patients and customers that they are a high priority even during busy times.
4) TEACHING & SUPERVISION
Actively involved in the training and supervision of medical students, medical residents, and genetic counseling students currently enrolled in an accredited master's level training program. Serves as a role model using an assertive, open and receptive communication style for genetic counseling students, medical students, and medical residents.
5) PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Remains current within the field by participating in departmental Journal Club. Attending appropriate lectures, conferences and seminars within the hospital system. Actively maintaining certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling if ABGC/ABMG certified. Serves as a role model for professional conduct. Pursues educational and/or research opportunities within the general and medical community. Identifies educational opportunities for self and colleagues. Pursues opportunities to organize, support, promote or otherwise be involved in educational conferences and other activities for genetic counselors. Helps to identify and realize professional goals for the counseling staff.
6) PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Initiates and contributes to efforts to improve the overall quality of the workplace. Prepares and disseminates educational materials for patients and professionals as needed. Establishes and maintains liaisons with other genetic professionals, laboratories or services working in genetics.
7) RESEARCH & PUBLISHING ARTICLES
Provides research ideas and helps realize research goals of the department.
REQUIREMENTS
Master's Degree from an American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) accredited program.
Minimum of 5 years of experience. Has accumulated at least 75 points according to Points Scale.
LICENSE:
ABGC Required
ABMG Required
Note: The compensation range(s) in the table below represent the base salaries for all positions at a given grade across the health system. Typically, a new hire can expect a starting salary somewhere in the lower part of the range. Actual salaries may vary by position and will be determined based on the candidate's relevant experience. No employee will be paid below the minimum of the range. Pay ranges are listed as hourly for non-exempt employees and based on assumed full time commitment for exempt employees.
Minimum – Midpoint – Maximum
$71,427.00 – $88,712.00 – $112,923.00
Baystate Health is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.
See all 35+ H-1B Visa Genetic Counselor Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding H-1B Visa Sponsorship as a Genetic Counselor
Verify your credentials meet LCA requirements
Your master's degree in genetic counseling must align with the SOC code your employer lists on the LCA. Use O*NET to confirm how DOL classifies the role, then ensure your transcript and ABGC board certification match the stated degree requirement exactly.
Target health systems with dedicated HR immigration teams
Academic medical centers, children's hospitals, and large cancer centers file H-1B petitions routinely for licensed clinical staff. Institutions with in-house immigration counsel move faster and are less likely to withdraw an offer when LCA certification timelines run long.
Search verified H-1B sponsors on Migrate Mate
Find genetic counseling employers with confirmed H-1B LCA filing history by searching Migrate Mate. Filtering by role and location shows which health systems have sponsored the position before, saving you from applying to employers with no sponsorship infrastructure.
Clarify worksite coverage before signing an offer
If you rotate between clinic sites, your employer needs a separate certified LCA for each worksite not listed on the original filing. Confirm this before accepting an offer, since adding sites after the fact delays your start date and requires additional DOL filings.
Use OFLC Wage Search to benchmark your offer level
DOL sets prevailing wages for genetic counselors by geography and experience tier. Run your offer location through the OFLC Wage Search to confirm your salary meets at least Level I or Level II requirements, since underpaying relative to the LCA wage is a common RFE trigger.
Account for cap timing when negotiating your start date
H-1B cap slots are limited annually and selection rules have changed recently. If you're not cap-exempt through a university or nonprofit hospital, build at least several months of buffer into your expected start date to account for registration windows and petition processing.
H-1B Visa Genetic Counselor: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Genetic Counselor role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Yes. Genetic counseling requires a master's degree from an ACGC-accredited program as the standard entry credential, and board certification through ABGC is expected in most clinical roles. USCIS treats roles with a defined, field-specific degree requirement as specialty occupations, so genetic counselors are well-positioned for H-1B classification without needing an employer to restructure the job description.
Which types of employers most commonly sponsor H-1B visas for Genetic Counselors?
Academic medical centers, NCI-designated cancer centers, pediatric hospitals, and large integrated health systems are the most active H-1B sponsors for this role. These institutions file LCAs regularly for licensed clinical staff and typically have immigration counsel on retainer. You can browse employers with verified H-1B LCA filing history for genetic counselor roles on Migrate Mate.
How long does H-1B status last for a Genetic Counselor, and can it be extended?
H-1B status is initially granted for up to three years and can be extended to a six-year maximum. Beyond six years, an extension is only possible if your employer has filed a PERM labor certification or an I-140 immigrant petition on your behalf and specific milestones have been met. Plan your green card timeline early if you intend to stay long-term.
What happens to my H-1B status if I move between clinic locations within the same employer?
Each worksite requires its own certified LCA from DOL. If your employer adds a new clinic location after your original petition was filed, they must file a new LCA for that site before you begin working there. Short-term placements under 60 days may qualify for a short-term placement exception, but regular rotations between sites require site-specific LCA coverage.
Can I work part-time as a Genetic Counselor on an H-1B visa?
Yes, H-1B status permits part-time employment, but the LCA and I-129 petition must accurately reflect your part-time schedule and corresponding prevailing wage. DOL calculates the wage requirement proportionally for part-time roles using the same OFLC Wage Search methodology. If your hours increase materially after filing, your employer must amend the petition to reflect the change.