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Assistant Medical Coder Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

College Medical Center

Medical Coder

Long Beach, CA

$30.46 - $38.07/hr

The Onsite Medical Coder is responsible for reviewing clinical documentation and assigning accurate ... Review coding-related payor denials, identify missed procedures, and assist the Business Office ...

One Community Health

Billing Medical Coder

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$29.08 - $36.77/hr

Billing Medical Coder The Billing Medical Coder is responsible for the day-to-day coding and ... Participate in internal audits, compliance initiatives, and continuing education. * Assist with ...

UHS

Sr Coder - Per Diem

Temecula, CA · On-site

$30.46 - $44.16/hr

Corona Regional Medical Center, Palmdale Regional Medical Center, Southwest Healthcare Rancho ... and regulations . * Assist with other areas of coding as needed. * Collaborates with Health ...

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All JobsAssistant Medical Coder JobsAssistant Medical Coder Jobs in California

Assistant Medical Coder information

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How much do assistant medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant medical coder in California is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are assistant medical coders?

Assistant medical coders are healthcare professionals who support the process of translating medical diagnoses, procedures, and services into standardized codes used for billing and record-keeping. They typically work under the supervision of certified medical coders and help ensure accurate coding of patient records, which is essential for insurance claims and compliance with healthcare regulations. Their responsibilities may include reviewing medical documentation, entering data into coding systems, and assisting with audits. This role is often an entry-level position and can serve as a stepping stone to becoming a certified medical coder.

What is the difference between Assistant Medical Coder vs Medical Coder?

AspectAssistant Medical CoderMedical Coder
CertificationsTypically requires coding certifications like CPC or CCSRequires similar or advanced coding certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in healthcare facilities, supporting coding teamsIn hospitals, clinics, or outpatient centers, performing coding tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesAssists with data entry, audits, and preliminary codingPerforms detailed coding, reviews records, ensures compliance

The main difference is that Assistant Medical Coders support and assist with coding tasks, often handling preliminary work, while Medical Coders perform detailed, primary coding responsibilities. Both roles require similar certifications and work in healthcare settings, but Medical Coders typically have more advanced responsibilities and experience.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For assistant medical coders, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher salaries compared to Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is often preferred for hospital coding roles and involves more complex coding tasks. However, salary can vary based on experience, location, and employer, with CCS holders typically earning a premium due to the specialized nature of their certification.

Will a medical coder be replaced by AI?

Medical coders perform detailed coding of healthcare diagnoses and procedures, a task that involves complex judgment and understanding of medical records. While AI tools can assist with coding accuracy and efficiency, they are unlikely to fully replace human medical coders due to the need for clinical knowledge, decision-making, and handling of nuanced cases. Human oversight remains essential in ensuring correct coding and compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Medical Coders when transitioning from training to real-world coding environments?

Assistant Medical Coders often find that applying theoretical knowledge to real-world medical records can be challenging, as documentation may be incomplete or use varied terminology. Adapting to different electronic health record (EHR) systems and keeping up with frequent updates to coding guidelines also require ongoing learning. Collaborating with healthcare providers to clarify documentation and ensuring accuracy under productivity standards are key aspects of the role. Support from experienced coders and ongoing education are valuable resources for overcoming these challenges.

How much does a medical coder make?

The average annual salary for a medical coder in Pennsylvania is around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Certified medical coders with credentials like CPC or CCS tend to earn higher wages, and those working in hospitals or specialized clinics may also see increased pay.

What does a medical coding assistant do?

A medical coding assistant supports healthcare providers by reviewing and assigning standardized codes to patient diagnoses, procedures, and services using coding systems like ICD and CPT. They ensure accurate documentation for billing and insurance claims, often working with electronic health records and requiring attention to detail and familiarity with coding guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Medical Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, coding systems (such as ICD-10 and CPT), and a high school diploma or relevant certification in medical coding. Familiarity with medical coding software, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and compliance standards like HIPAA is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are crucial soft skills for this role. Mastery of these skills ensures accurate coding, supports proper billing, and minimizes errors that could impact patient care and healthcare facility revenue.
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in California? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Medical Coder jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Medical Coder job openings:
Assistant Medical Coder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Medical Coder job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,828 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Medical Coder

Medical Coder

College Medical Center

Long Beach, CA

$30.46 - $38.07/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

The Onsite Medical Coder is responsible for reviewing clinical documentation and assigning accurate diagnosis and procedure codes for inpatient and outpatient services in compliance with coding guidelines and regulatory requirements. This role also supports coding workflow management, coordination with outsourced coding partners, revenue cycle teams, and clinical staff to ensure accurate and timely coding across all three facilities.

Qualifications

  • Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), RHIT, RHIA, CPC, or equivalent preferred.

  • Experience coding inpatient and outpatient hospital records.

  • Strong knowledge of ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT coding guidelines.

  • Experience working with electronic medical records and coding workflows.

  • Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and ability to communicate with clinical and administrative teams.

Key Responsibilities

Medical Coding: Code inpatient, outpatient, physical therapy, and same-day surgery records according to coding guidelines.

Documentation Review: Ensure required documentation (e.g., pathology reports, H&P, discharge details) is complete before accounts are sent for coding.

Account Management: Manage SDS and inpatient accounts, place holds when documentation is missing, and transfer accounts to coding once complete.

Revenue Cycle Support: Review coding-related payor denials, identify missed procedures, and assist the Business Office with coding issues affecting reimbursement.

Coordination with Coders: Support outsourced coding teams by answering questions, clarifying diagnoses, and maintaining tracking logs.

Query Resolution: Review and resolve coding queries or escalate to physicians when documentation clarification is needed.

Quality & Compliance: Monitor coding accuracy, track errors, and ensure compliance with regulations and facility policies.

Education & Collaboration: Educate clinical staff on documentation requirements and collaborate with HIM, Case Management, and Revenue Cycle teams.

Work Environment

  • Onsite position at College Medical Center.

  • Provides coding and workflow support for all three affiliated facilities.

Pay Rate: $30.46-$38.07 per hour