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State of Washington Classified Job Specification

GENETICS COUNSELOR 1

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GENETICS COUNSELOR 1
Class Code: 360E
Category: Social Services


Class Series Concept

Provide professional genetic counseling services in specialized areas such as prenatal diagnosis, biochemical genetics, molecular genetics and medical genetics.

Definition

Provide genetic counseling services. Participate in health sciences research.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Under general supervision, compile family histories and review genetic test results. Conduct patient education regarding standard genetic diseases. Refer complex cases to Genetics Counselor 2 or Medical Geneticist. Participate in genetics research projects.

Typical Work

Compile complete family history; obtain and review medical records; 

Recommend standard genetic tests; 

Discuss prognosis and management options with Genetics Counselor 2 or Medical Geneticist; 

Educate patients regarding their risks/options; 

Provide grief and crisis counseling to individuals and/or families; 

Provide follow-up patient care; 

Coordinate patient services with social services, clergy, health care providers and other resources based upon evaluation of individual patient needs; 

Coordinate the handling and shipping of samples for specialized genetic testing in other locations; 

Participate in research studies and projects; collect and evaluate various clinical and demographic data for research purposes;  

Perform related duties as required.

Legal Requirement(s)

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Desirable Qualifications

A Master's Degree in genetics counseling or a related field from a program accredited by a national certification board for medical genetics personnel 

AND 

One year of professional genetic counseling experience, or equivalent (student internship acceptable).

Class Specification History

New Class: 5-17-79
Revised Title and Class: 4-6-90
Revise MQ: 6-4-93
Revised new class code: (formerly 6190) effective July 1, 2007

Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.