Department

BSD PED - Pediatric Genetics and Genomics

About the Department

In the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Chicago, we strive to provide the highest level of complex care for children from diagnosis and treatment to conducting research to find promising new therapies with a focus on teaching. We are committed to advancing the frontiers of knowledge, and the education and training of future clinical pediatricians, subspecialists, educators, clinical investigators and physician-scientists. The Department of Pediatrics is a dynamic, stimulating place to work, and because we are focused on growth and improved excellence, our staff have particularly challenging and rewarding roles.

Job Summary

The job uses best practices and knowledge to provide genetics counseling services to patients, including interpretation of family and medical histories, screening, and education.

The Genetic Counselor works as a member of the new Section for Pediatric Genetics and Genomics providing genetic counseling to patients and families. The Genetic Counselor schedules appointments, performs comprehensive personal and family assessments, arranges genetic testing as appropriate, provides emotional support to families during treatment, takes family histories, summarizes cases, explains genetic testing procedures and results. Identifies families at risk, interprets information about the disorder, reviews available options with the family. Serves as a patient advocate and educator and engages in research activities related to the field of medical genetics.

Our department follows a hybrid work structure that fosters productivity, collaboration, and employee well-being. Working from the office is encouraged for tasks that require a high degree of collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Under minimal guidance, works as a member of a health care team, providing genetics counseling, screening services, community outreach programs, consultative services, and support to families who have members with birth defects or genetic disorders and to families who may be at risk for a variety of inherited conditions.

• Takes family histories, summarizes cases, explains genetic testing procedures and results, and provides general genetics counseling. Identifies families at risk, investigates the problem present in the family, interprets information about the disorder, analyzes inheritance patterns and risks of recurrence, and reviews available options with the family.

• Reviews implications with the patient and provides crisis intervention regarding unexpected genetic conditions. Serves as a patient advocate and refers individuals and families to community or state support services. Serves as an educator and resource for other health care professionals and for the general public.

• May engage in research activities related to the field of medical genetics and genetic counseling.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• A Master’s degree in Genetic Counseling or directly equivalent discipline.

Experience:

• Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of Genetics.

Licenses and Certifications:

• American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABCG) or American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG) board certification or board eligibility.

Preferred Competencies

• Ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative.

• Ability to work skillfully with a diverse population.

Working Conditions

• Eligible for hybrid work based on business needs and the demands of specific tasks. Working from the office is encouraged for tasks that require a high degree of collaboration.

• Direct patient contact and clinical care setting.

• Exposure to human blood, human blood components, and/or products made from human blood.

• Exposure to infectious material.

• Ships hazardous material.

• Office environment.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

• Cover Letter (required)

Job Family

Healthcare & Medical Services

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status

Exempt

Pay Frequency

Monthly

Scheduled Weekly Hours

20

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Drug Test Required

Yes

Health Screen Required

Yes

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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