Genetics Counsellor I

Alberta Health Services is an organization where excellence, innovation and advanced learning are valued and aligned with a philosophy of Patient and Family Centered Care. As a member of our team, Genetics Counsellor I (UAH) have the opportunity to work with some of the best professionals in Canada, for one of the nation’s largest employers. The Stollery Children’s Hospital is the primary acute care center for children in the Edmonton Area and Western Canada. Since it opened in 2001, the Stollery developed as a specialized site with expertise and programs to ensure children who require inpatient services receive the best care possible. Highly-skilled child health professionals from around the world have made the Stollery a well-recognized center for specialized pediatric services. Working with us is about making a difference. Our skilled professionals ensure that we have the right people, with the right skills, at the right time. It’s our people that help make us one of Canada’s top employers. The Edmonton Medical Genetics clinic provides a full range of comprehensive genetic services to those residing in the Alberta and the Northwest Territories. Services include general genetics (pediatrics and adult), with specialty services in cancer, cardiology, prenatal and metabolic. As a member of a team that includes 12 genetic counsellors, 5 genetic assistants and 11 geneticists, you will provide genetic counseling to individuals and families affected with, at-risk for, or coping with genetic disease in a supportive and non-directive manner that promotes informed choice. This position also plans, organizes, implements, evaluates and coordinates a comprehensive genetic service focusing on pediatric and adult services. For more information, please contact Sajid Merchant, Lead Genetic Counsellor at toll free 1-855-935-7333.

As a Genetics Counsellor 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 medical care providers to understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of how genetics contributes to disease. In addition, you will guide individuals/families in discussions about testing options, test result interpretation, prevention, medical management, newborn metabolic screening, and options for prenatal diagnosis. You will also provide supportive counselling to individuals/families with sensitivity to ethnic and cultural diversity and they address potential ethical issues. Furthermore, you will serve as a patient advocate and refer individuals and families to available support services, and as an educator and resource people for other healthcare professionals and the general public.

Master's degree in Genetic Counselling. Certification (or eligible for certification) by the Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors (CAGC) and/or the American Board of Genetic Counselling (ABGC).

As Required.

The ability to be flexible and adaptable are preferred assets.