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Associate Medical Coder Jobs in Santa Clara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Medical Responder

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$26 - $26.50/hr

Respond to all medical emergencies in the park from Code 1 to Code 3. * Document communication with ... People who love helping others and will support the needs of our guests and associates.

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Associate Medical Coder information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

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$26

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How much do associate medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate medical coder in Santa Clara, CA is $26.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate medical coder?

Associate Medical Coders are entry-level professionals who review clinical documents and assign standardized medical codes for diagnoses, procedures, and treatments. Their main responsibility is to ensure accurate coding for billing and insurance purposes, following healthcare regulations and coding guidelines. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced coders or managers and may be employed in hospitals, clinics, or insurance companies. Associate Medical Coders help ensure that healthcare providers are reimbursed correctly and that patient records are accurately maintained.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate medical coder?

To thrive as an Associate Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and ICD-10/CPT coding systems, often supported by a coding certification such as CPC or CCS. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help ensure accuracy and efficiency in coding tasks. These competencies are vital for maintaining regulatory compliance, minimizing errors, and supporting healthcare reimbursement processes.

What are some common challenges faced by associate medical coders when starting in the role?

Associate Medical Coders often encounter challenges such as understanding complex medical terminology, keeping up with frequent updates to coding guidelines, and ensuring the accuracy of codes in high-volume environments. Adapting to electronic health record (EHR) systems and learning to interpret diverse clinical documentation from multiple healthcare providers can also be demanding. However, with proper training, mentorship, and ongoing education, new coders can quickly build confidence and proficiency in their daily responsibilities.

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

AspectAssociate Medical CoderMedical Coder
CertificationsTypically requires CPC or CCS certificationsRequires CPC, CCS, or similar coding certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilitiesHospitals, physician offices, insurance companies
Job ResponsibilitiesAssists with coding, reviews records, supports senior codersPerforms detailed medical coding, audits, and documentation review

The main difference between an Associate Medical Coder and a Medical Coder lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Medical Coders often support senior coders and may have less experience, focusing on learning and assisting with coding tasks. Medical Coders typically handle more complex coding duties independently. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable healthcare settings, but Medical Coders usually have more advanced skills and responsibilities.

Is an associate's degree in medical billing and coding worth it?

An associate's degree in medical billing and coding provides foundational knowledge and can improve job prospects for roles like medical coder. However, many employers prioritize certification such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) over formal education alone, and on-the-job training is common. The degree can be beneficial but is often complemented by certification and practical experience for career advancement.

Is it hard to get hired as an associate medical coder?

Getting hired as an associate medical coder can be competitive, but having relevant certifications such as CPC or CCS and strong knowledge of medical coding guidelines can improve your chances. Entry-level positions often require some training or certification, and familiarity with coding software is beneficial. Overall, with the right qualifications and skills, securing a position is achievable.

What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Santa Clara, CA?

The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Associate Medical Coder jobs?

Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Associate Medical Coder job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Medical Coder job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,773 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Hospital Outpatient Coder

Kaiser Permanente

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$90 - $110/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Kaiser Permanente rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 927 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Summary:

Must reside in Northern California

Under direct supervision, the Hospital Outpatient Coder is responsible for the accurate coding and abstracting of diagnoses, conditions and procedures from medical record documentation for Hospital Ambulatory Surgery (HAS), Home Health/Hospice (if applicable), Observation (OBS) and Hospital complex Outpatient Visit (CHOY) including capture of codes for outpatient services that require monitored anesthesia and conscious sedation. Working from appropriate documentation, assign the appropriate codes and modifiers with ICD-CM, CPT and HCPCS Level II codes. All work must be performed in accordance with the rules, regulations and coding conventions of ICD-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, Coding Clinic published by the American Hospital Association, the ICD-CM, CPT and HCPCS code book, CPT Assistant, NCCI Edits, OSHPD and Kaiser Permanente's organizational and institutional coding guidelines.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Review Medical Records to identify diagnoses/procedures.
  • Reviews medical record documentation to identify diagnoses/procedures to be coded Independently organizes and prioritizes work assignments to ensure that records are coded timely and compliantly in conformance with regulatory requirements.
  • Codes all appropriate diagnosis and procedures from the medical record using ICD-CM,
  • CPT and HCSPCS coding classification systems.
  • Responsible for the sequencing of diagnoses and procedure codes in accordance with guidelines outlined in ICD-CM, CPT, Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set, Medicare regulations and other appropriate classification systems.
  • Verifies and abstracts the appropriate data from the medical records to meet requirements for data submission and reporting. Corrects data as needed.
  • Ensures that all data abstracted is consistent with guidelines outlined by TJC, OSHPD, CMS, and regional and local KP policies.
  • Ensures the accuracy and integrity of data abstracted and coded based on medical record documentation prior to data submission or coding completion.
  • Interacts with physicians to clarify and accurately document patient diagnostic and procedural information when appropriate.
  • Ensures timely data completion by meeting coding/abstracting productivity/quality standards established for the position.
  • Confidentiality/Security of Systems: Maintains and complies with policies and procedures for confidentiality of all patient records.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of privacy and security of systems and associated policies and procedures for maintaining the security of the data contained within the systems.
  • Other Duties: Performs other duties as assigned.

Grade 565

Basic Qualifications: Experience:
  • Two years of continuous hospital coding/abstracting experience within the last five years.
Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED and demonstrated completion of classes in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, current ICD-CM and CPT coding conventions and disease process from an accredited program.
License, Certification, Registration:
  • Registered Health Information Technician OR Certified Professional Coder OR Certified Coding Specialist OR Certified Coding Associate OR Registered Health Information Administrator OR Certified Coding Specialist - Physician Based
Additional Requirements:
  • Achieve a minimum score of 75% on the Hospital Outpatient Coder test.
  • Basic knowledge of and use of computer keyboard and mouse.
  • Must be able to meet productivity and quality standards established for the position.
  • Demonstrated ability to understand the clinical content of a health record and translate into the appropriate code.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology and disease process to interpret general medical classifications for Hospital Ambulatory Services, Home Health/Hospice, and Hospital Observation.
  • Services and CHOY services that require monitored anesthesia or conscious sedation
  • Demonstrated knowledge pertaining to all guidelines that concern the coding and sequencing of diagnoses and procedures outlined in but not limited to current ICD-CM, CPT, Medicare guidelines and other sources.
  • Basic knowledge of reimbursement methodologies and conventions and knowledge of rules and guidelines for the appropriate and current coding classifications.
  • Must maintain coding credential and complete the required Continuing Education (CE) units.
  • Must abide by the AHIMA and/or AAPC code of ethics.
  • Must be willing to work in a Labor Management Partnership environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • N/A
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