Genetics & Genomics (G&G) has an exciting opportunity for a Genetic Counsellor to join our team at the spectacular Alberta Children’s Hospital located in Calgary. G&G provides complex genetic testing for a broad range of inherited conditions, serving an important role in the provision of genetic services for the province of Alberta. We are looking for a strong team player committed to delivering quality patient care. As a Genetic Counsellor you will act as a liaison as well as an educator and resource for in-house staff, other healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public. Other key responsibilities will include but are not limited to: coordinating dissemination of information about patient testing between G&G laboratories (Molecular Diagnostics, Cytogenetics, and Biochemical Genetics); working with G&G laboratories and key stakeholders prior to and during the implementation of new tests; developing educational materials to support genetic testing; developing and maintaining SOPs on clinical issues such as predictive testing, testing of minors, and ordering of restricted tests; providing information to clients regarding appropriate testing, limitations of testing, and sample requirements; reviewing in-coming test requests for clinical appropriateness; interpreting test results and follow-ups on abnormal results; and assisting in development/writing of reports. You will also provide support to the Genetic Resource Center (GRC), an out-of-province funding program administered through G&G. You will coordinate the review and approval of all genetic testing applications from healthcare providers across Alberta. You will research appropriate labs to perform genetic testing and address test application issues and stakeholder complaints. Finally, you will participate in management and analysis of GRC data.
As a Genetics Counselor I, you will determine a patient or family's risk for a genetic condition, interpret test results, analyze inheritance patterns and risks of occurrence or recurrence, and review available options with the individual/family in a manner that promotes informed choice. You will assist patients, families and/or medical care providers to understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of how genetics contributes to disease. In addition, you may guide individuals/families and other clinicians in discussions about testing options, test result interpretation, prevention, medical management, newborn metabolic screening, and options for prenatal diagnosis. You may also provide supportive counseling to individuals/families and other clinicians with sensitivity to ethnic and cultural diversity and how they address potential ethical issues. Furthermore, you may serve as a patient advocate and refer individuals and families to available support services and as an educator and resource for other healthcare professionals and the general public.
- Classification: Genetics Counselor
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Union: HSAA FAC PROF/TECH
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Unit and Program: Genetics and Genomics
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Primary Location: Alberta Children's Hospital
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Location Details: Eligible to work hybrid (on/off site) within Alberta
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Multi-Site: Not Applicable
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FTE: 0.50
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Posting End Date: 05-MAY-2025
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Employee Class: Regular Part Time
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Date Available: 02-JUN-2025
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Hours per Shift: 7.75
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Length of Shift in weeks: 2
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Shifts per cycle: 5
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Shift Pattern: Days
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Days Off: As Per Rotation
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Minimum Salary: $43.38
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Maximum Salary: $57.63
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Vehicle Requirement: Not Applicable
Required Qualifications:
Completion of Master of Genetic Counseling degree. Board Certification or eligibility with either the Canadian Association of Genetic Counselors (CAGC) or the American Board of Genetic Counselors (ABGC).
Additional Required Qualifications:
Professional knowledge of the rapidly changing principles and practice of genetics in the clinical and laboratory setting. Recent experience as a laboratory-based Genetic Counsellor. Proficient use of Windows-based applications, Microsoft Office suite of programs, and the Internet. Proven critical thinking, analytical, problem solving, planning, and decision- making skills. Strong attention to detail as well as superior organizational and time management skills. Ability to prioritize work and deliver accurate work under stressful conditions. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated interest in continuing education.
Preferred Qualifications:
Minimum two years recent genetic counselling experience is preferred. Experience with Connect Care EPIC lab information systems is preferred.
