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Coding Specialist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coding & Reporting Specialist

Burbank, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

The Coding & Reporting Specialist role works in a small team on a high volume of requests requiring someone with a keen eye for detail, refined critical thinking skills, and data entry, validation ...

Coding & Reporting Specialist

Burbank, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

The Coding & Reporting Specialist role works in a small team on a high volume of requests requiring someone with a keen eye for detail, refined critical thinking skills, and data entry, validation ...

Coding & Reporting Specialist

Burbank, CA ยท On-site +1

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

The Coding & Reporting Specialist role works in a small team on a high volume of requests requiring someone with a keen eye for detail, refined critical thinking skills, and data entry, validation ...

Coding & Reporting Specialist

Burbank, CA ยท On-site +1

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

The Coding & Reporting Specialist role works in a small team on a high volume of requests requiring someone with a keen eye for detail, refined critical thinking skills, and data entry, validation ...

Coder II (Outpatient-SDS)

Upland, CA ยท On-site

$28.52 - $42.78/hr

Current Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) Certificate required. Equipment: Proficient in use of computers. Physical Requirements: Must be able to ...

Showing results 21-40

Coding Specialist information

See California salary details

$16

$27

$38

How much do coding specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for coding specialist in California is $27.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $32.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges coding specialists face when ensuring the accuracy of medical codes, and how are these typically addressed?

Coding Specialists often encounter challenges such as ambiguous or incomplete clinical documentation, evolving coding standards, and the need to stay updated with regulatory changes. To address these, they frequently communicate with healthcare providers for clarification, participate in ongoing training sessions, and utilize specialized coding software to help reduce errors. Collaboration with other coding professionals and compliance teams is also common to ensure consistent and accurate code assignment, which is essential for proper billing and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Coding Specialist vs Medical Coder?

AspectCoding SpecialistMedical Coder
CertificationsAHIMA or AAPC certifications, such as CCS or CPCSame certifications, including CCS or CPC
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, insurance companies, healthcare providersHospitals, outpatient clinics, insurance companies
Job FocusInterpreting medical records, coding diagnoses and procedures, ensuring complianceAssigning standardized codes to medical diagnoses and procedures
Common UsageUsed interchangeably in many settings; some employers differentiate based on scopeMost common term for the role of medical coding

The main difference between a Coding Specialist and a Medical Coder lies in their job scope and terminology. While both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, a Coding Specialist may have broader responsibilities, including reviewing records for accuracy and compliance. However, in many cases, the terms are used interchangeably, and the roles overlap significantly.

What is a coding specialist?

A medical coding specialist is trained to enter billing and coding information. They are responsible for ensuring that patient records have the correct codes and managing insurance billing. Job duties include contacting insurance companies and reviewing medical records. Coding specialists must be skilled in gathering data and assigning ICD-10 codes, as well as understanding current procedural terminology (CPT). Coding specialists can learn about this by earning the certified professional coder (CPC) certification, and gain relevant skills through on-the-job training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coding specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Coding Specialist, you need in-depth knowledge of medical coding systems like ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS, often supported by a certification such as CPC or CCS. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software is typically required in this role. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations. These competencies are vital for accurate billing, minimizing claim denials, and maintaining healthcare facility revenue integrity.

Is coding a high paying job?

Coding specialists, such as software developers and programmers, often earn competitive salaries that can be higher than average depending on experience, location, and skill level. Advanced skills in programming languages, certifications, and experience with in-demand technologies can lead to higher pay. However, salaries vary widely across industries and regions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Coding Specialist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Coding Specialist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Coding Specialist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Coding Specialist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Coding Specialist jobs in CA?

For Coding Specialist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Coding Specialist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,254 per year, or $27 per hour.

Risk Adjustment Coding Specialist II - Orange County

Astrana Health, Inc.

Orange, CA โ€ข Remote

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description
We are currently seeking a highly motivated Risk Adjustment Coding Specialist to support our Orange County market.  In this role, you will support risk adjustment efforts by conducting high-volume chart reviews to identify coding gaps, trends, and opportunities for improved accuracy for our providers. You’ll translate your findings into actionable insights, creating and delivering education to providers and practice leaders while navigating complex conversations. Additionally, you’ll track and report on key performance metrics—such as HCC recapture rates, AWVs, and other KPIs, helping drive provider performance and overall program success. 
We are seeking candidates who have experience with risk adjustment experience, and we are open to training those without previous provider education experience! This position requires travel to provider offices up to 50% of the time OC.
Our Values: 
  • Put Patients First
  • Empower Entrepreneurial Provider and Care Teams
  • Operate with Integrity & Excellence
  • Be Innovative
  • Work As One Team

What You'll Do
  • Review provider documentation of diagnostic data from medical records to verify that all Medicare Advantage, Affordable Care Act (ACO) and Commercial risk adjustment documentation requirements are met, and to deliver education to providers on either an individual basis or in a group forum, as appropriate for all IPAs managed by the company
  • Review medical record information on both a retroactive and prospective basis to identify, assess, monitor, and document claims and encounter coding information as it pertains to Hierarchical Condition Categories (HCC) 
  • Perform code abstraction and/or coding quality audits of medical records to ensure ICD-10- CM codes are accurately assigned and supported by clinical documentation to ensure adherence with CMS Risk Adjustment guidelines 
  • Interacts with physicians regarding coding, billing, documentation policies, procedures, and conflicting/ambiguous or non-specific documentation
  • Prepare and/or perform auditing analysis and provide feedback on noncompliance issues detected through auditing
  • Maintain current knowledge of coding regulations, compliance guidelines, and updates to the ICD-10 and HCC codes, Stay informed about changes in Medicare, Medicaid, and private payer requirements.
  • Provides recommendations to management related to process improvements, root-cause analysis, and/or barrier resolution applicable to Risk Adjustment initiatives.
  • Trains, mentors and supports new employees during the orientation process. Functions as a resource to existing staff for projects and daily work.
  • Provides peer to peer guidance through informal discussion and overread assignments. Supports coder training and orientation as requested by manager.
  • May assist or lead projects and/or higher work volume than Risk Adjustment Coding Specialist I
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Required Certification/Licensure: Must possess and maintain AAPC or AHIMA certification -  Certified Coding Specialist (CCS-P), CCS, or CPC.
  • At least 3 years of experience in risk adjustment coding and/or billing experience required
  • Reliable transportation/Valid Driver’s License/Must be able to travel up to 75% of work time
  • PC skills and experience using Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, and Outlook
  • Excellent presentation, verbal and written communication skills, and ability to collaborate 
  • Must possess the ability to educate and train provider office staff members
  • Proficiency with healthcare coding software and Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems.
You're great for this role if:    
  • Strong billing knowledge and/or Certified Professional Biller (CPB) through APPC
  • Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC) and/or Risk Adjustment coding experience
  • Have knowledge of Risk Adjustment and Hierarchical Condition Categories (HCC) for Medicare Advantage
  • Strong PowerPoint and public speaking experience
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate in a team setting
  • Experience with Monday.com
  • Experience collaborating with, educating, and presenting to provider teams in a face-to-face setting

Environmental Job Requirements and Working Conditions
  • The national target pay range for this role is $70,000 - $85,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on geographic location (current or future), experience, and other job-related factors.
  • This role follows a hybrid work structure where the expectation is to work on the field and at home on a weekly basis. This position requires up to 75% travel to provider offices in Orange County. 
Astrana Health is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. If you require assistance in applying for open positions due to a disability, please email us at humanresourcesdept@astranahealth.com to request an accommodation.    

Additional Information:     
The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.