Genetic Counselors
O*NET 29-9092.00 · SOC 29-9092
Genetic Counselor is a strong career choice. Median pay is $100k a year with +10.4% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 300 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Interpret genetic test results and explain findings to patients
- →Assess family medical histories to identify inherited disease risks
- →Counsel patients facing decisions about genetic testing options
- →Coordinate genetic testing referrals with laboratories and physicians
- →Support patients emotionally when delivering high-risk genetic diagnoses
Education & How to Get In
Genetic Counselor roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Genetic Counselor involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Genetic Counselor?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Genetic Counselor Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Genetic Counselors is projected to grow 10.4% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·30% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Genetic Counselor make?
The median Genetic Counselor earns $100k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Genetic Counselor jobs?
Our model puts Genetic Counselor at 19 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk, AI-resistant. The main drivers: 40% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 30% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Genetic Counselor a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 10.4% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Genetic Counselor?
Genetic Counselor roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Genetic Counselor?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Genetic Counselor career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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