Genetic Counselor Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Genetic Counselor roles qualify as specialty occupations under H-1B visa, requiring a master's degree in genetic counseling or a closely related field. Employers in hospital systems, cancer centers, and diagnostics labs actively file LCAs through DOL, making sponsored positions accessible for international candidates with ABGC certification or eligibility.
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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 39+ Genetic Counselor Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Genetic Counselor roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Genetic Counselor
Verify your ABGC certification eligibility early
USCIS treats ABGC board certification as evidence of specialty occupation standing. Confirm your foreign master's degree meets equivalency standards before applying, since credential gaps can trigger an RFE and delay your H-1B approval by months.
Target hospital systems with genetics departments
Academic medical centers and NCI-designated cancer centers file LCAs for genetic counselors far more consistently than private clinics. Prioritize employers with established genetics programs, where the infrastructure for sponsoring specialty occupation roles already exists.
Search verified sponsor history on Migrate Mate
Use Migrate Mate to browse genetic counselor positions filtered by employers with confirmed LCA filing history, so you're applying to roles where sponsorship is already established practice, not a first-time ask from the hiring manager.
Use OFLC Wage Search to anchor salary conversations
DOL's prevailing wage tiers directly affect your LCA filing. Pull the Level II or III wage for your metro using the OFLC Wage Search before interviews, so you can confirm any offer meets the threshold required for a compliant LCA submission.
Ask employers about PERM before accepting offers
Genetic counselor shortages in many regions support PERM labor certification for EB-2 or EB-3 green card petitions. Before signing an offer, confirm whether the employer has sponsored PERM cases before and whether they're willing to start the process within your first two years.
Get your degree evaluated for specialty occupation fit
A three-year foreign master's or a CGC degree from a non-ACGC program can complicate the specialty occupation analysis. Submit a credential evaluation from a NACES-member service alongside your petition to give USCIS a clear equivalency determination upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Genetic Counselor role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B?
Yes. Genetic counselor positions consistently meet the H-1B specialty occupation standard because the role requires a master's degree in genetic counseling or a directly related field as a minimum entry requirement. USCIS looks at degree specificity, and a general biology or nursing degree typically won't suffice. ABGC board certification further strengthens the specialty occupation argument in your petition.
Which visa types are realistic for international genetic counselors?
H-1B is the primary work visa path, covering initial status of up to three years, extendable to six. Australian nationals can pursue the E-3 visa, which has no lottery and renews every two years. Canadian and Mexican nationals may qualify under TN visa if the role fits the USMCA profession list. For long-term U.S. plans, an employer-sponsored EB-2 or EB-3 green card through PERM labor certification is the most direct permanent path.
How do I find employers who sponsor genetic counselors?
Migrate Mate lists employers with verified LCA filing history for genetic counselor roles, so you can focus your applications on organizations that have already sponsored the position. Academic medical centers, children's hospitals, and hereditary cancer programs at large health systems are the most active sponsors, but Migrate Mate lets you confirm sponsorship history before investing time in an application.
Does my foreign genetic counseling degree meet USCIS requirements?
USCIS requires that the degree be equivalent to a U.S. master's in genetic counseling from an ACGC-accredited program. If your degree came from a non-U.S. institution, you'll need a credential evaluation from a NACES-member organization. A three-year foreign master's can qualify if the evaluator confirms equivalency, but gaps in curriculum alignment can trigger a Request for Evidence. Including a detailed course-by-course evaluation with your petition reduces that risk significantly.
Can my employer sponsor me for a green card as a genetic counselor?
Yes, and the shortage of certified genetic counselors in many U.S. metro areas makes PERM labor certification more straightforward than in saturated fields. Most genetic counselors pursue EB-2 sponsorship, which requires an advanced degree. Your employer files the PERM application with DOL first, then the I-140 immigrant petition with USCIS. Confirm your employer's willingness to sponsor PERM before accepting an offer, since the process typically begins one to two years into employment.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Genetic Counselor jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.