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Contract Medical Coder Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coder II

Costa Mesa, CA · Remote

$20 - $26.75/hr

Minimum 2+ years of work experience as a medical coder. Preferred: Coding experience in multiple ... We specialize in Contract and Contract to Permanent roles across many industries and have direct ...

Superbill Coder

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Superbill Coder Santa Ana, CA 12+ Months Contract Department: Billing & Revenue Cycle Reports To ... CPC, CCS, or equivalent coding certification * 2-3 years of experience in medical coding (superbill ...

Coder 2-HIM

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$39.36 - $52.93/hr

... contract payers, and grant funding. Quality of data collected impacts the facility in multiple ways ... Knowledge of Medical Terminology preferred. Knowledge of the standards of Coding as set forth by ...

Coder 2-HIM

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$39.36 - $52.93/hr

... contract payers, and grant funding. Quality of data collected impacts the facility in multiple ways ... Knowledge of Medical Terminology preferred. Knowledge of the standards of Coding as set forth by ...

Coder 2-HIM

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$39.36 - $52.93/hr

... contract payers, and grant funding. Quality of data collected impacts the facility in multiple ways ... Knowledge of Medical Terminology preferred. Knowledge of the standards of Coding as set forth by ...

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Contract Medical Coder information

See California salary details

$15

$22

$33

How much do contract medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract medical coder in California is $22.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you be a freelance medical coder?

Yes, contract medical coders can work as freelancers, providing coding services independently to healthcare providers or organizations. Freelance medical coders typically need certification, strong knowledge of coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and reliable access to coding tools and software. They often set their own schedules and rates, but must ensure compliance with industry standards and client requirements.

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

AspectContract Medical CoderMedical Coder
CertificationsTypically requires CPC or CCS certificationsUsually requires CPC or CCS certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance or temporary assignments, remote or onsiteFull-time, part-time, or freelance, often onsite or remote
Employer & IndustryHired by healthcare facilities or as independent contractorsEmployed directly by healthcare organizations or as freelancers

The main difference between a Contract Medical Coder and a Medical Coder lies in employment status. Contract Medical Coders typically work on temporary or freelance basis, often remotely, while Medical Coders may be employed full-time or part-time by healthcare providers. Both roles require similar certifications and skills, but their work arrangements and job stability differ.

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

To thrive as a Contract Medical Coder, you need a deep understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, coding systems (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS), and typically a certification such as CPC, CCS, or CCA. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and medical coding software is essential for efficient and accurate work. Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure coding accuracy and compliance, which are critical for proper billing, reimbursement, and legal standards in healthcare organizations.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For contract medical coders, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher pay compared to Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is often associated with hospital coding and more complex cases. However, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and employer, with CCS-certified coders typically earning a premium due to the specialized skills required. Both certifications are valuable, but CCS tends to offer higher compensation in the medical coding field.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Medical Coders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract Medical Coders often face challenges such as adapting to different healthcare providers' coding systems, staying updated with frequent regulatory changes, and managing productivity expectations while working remotely. To manage these effectively, it's important to maintain strong communication with client teams, participate in ongoing training, and utilize reliable coding references. Time management and self-discipline are also essential, as contract roles often require meeting strict deadlines without direct supervision.

Will AI eventually replace medical coders?

Contract medical coders interpret clinical documentation and assign codes for billing and record-keeping. While AI tools can assist with coding accuracy and efficiency, human oversight remains essential to handle complex cases, ensure compliance, and review AI-generated codes. Therefore, AI is expected to augment rather than fully replace medical coders in the foreseeable future.

Which medical coder gets paid the most?

Senior and specialized medical coders, such as those with certifications like Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), tend to earn the highest salaries. Coders with expertise in outpatient, inpatient, or surgical coding, as well as those working in high-demand healthcare settings, generally receive higher pay. Experience, certifications, and geographic location also influence earning potential.

What are Contract Medical Coders?

Contract Medical Coders are professionals who work on a temporary or project basis to assign standardized codes to medical diagnoses and procedures found in patient records. They help healthcare providers ensure accurate billing, compliance, and reimbursement by translating clinical documentation into universally recognized codes. Unlike full-time employees, contract coders typically work for a set period or for specific assignments, either remotely or on-site, and may serve multiple clients. This flexibility is beneficial for healthcare organizations needing additional support during busy periods or special projects.
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 are popular job titles related to Contract Medical Coder jobs in California? For Contract Medical Coder jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Medical Coder jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Medical Coder job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Medical Coder job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 65% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,027 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Coder II

Coder II

TalentBurst, Inc.

Costa Mesa, CA • Remote

$20 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Coder II
100% Remote
13+ weeks with a high possibility of extension
100% remote OB/GYN Coding experience required.

Work Schedule: Monday -Friday, Full-Time
Certifications Needed for the Role: Please see JD.
Acceptable remote locations: •California - entire state, but can't hire for candidates who reside in SF city, Oakland, Los Angeles county, San Diego city. •Georgia •Indiana •Iowa •Missouri •Nebraska •North Carolina •Tennessee •Texas •Utah •Wisconsin •Wyoming

Description:
The Coder reviews clinical documentation and diagnostic results and applies appropriate ICD-10-CM codes to support diagnoses, procedures, and treatment results. Codes are used for billing, internal and external reporting, research, and regulatory compliance activities. Abides by the standards of Ethical Coding as set forth by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and adheres to all official coding guidelines. Verify that all ICD-10-CM codes are correctly captured. Verify that physician is correctly abstracted. Keeps abreast of coding guideline changes by self-study, assigned education, coding meeting attendance or related in-services. Participates in internal and external quality review meetings. Performs other duties as assigned. Coding - Hoag Clinic: In addition to the above, the coder meets ongoing productivity and quality standard of 95% accuracy rate or better. The coder follows all coding conventions and serves as a coding consultant to Hoag providers. Discrepancies are identified that may impact quality of care and/or billing issues. The coder will serve as a resource and subject matter expert to other coding staff. Completes coding charge review and claim edits in Epic or other appropriate EMR system which would entail coding and correcting ICD-10 codes, modifiers, CPT, E/M, and procedure codes.
Skills:
Critical thinking, diversity, technical and equipment skills, interpersonal skills, job knowledge, oral/written communication, possible travel. Business acumen, customer satisfaction, innovation, trust and accountability.
Education:
High school diploma or equivalent required. Coding - Hoag Clinic: Required: Minimum 2+ years of work experience as a medical coder.
Preferred: Coding experience in multiple specialties to include but are not limited to: OB/GYN, Urology, Oncology, Pain Management, Cardiology, General Surgery, Cardiothoracic, Neurosurgery, Neurology, and Orthopedics procedures. Knowledge of E/M coding. Certifications required: For Coding - Hoag Clinic: Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Outpatient Coder (COC), Certified Coding Specialist Physician-Based (CCS-P), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), or Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA).Skills:Required
  • EXTERNAL REPORTING
  • ICD-10-CM CODING
  • MEDICAL CODING
  • BILLING
  • INTERNAL REPORTING

3 month initial assignment to help with backlog. May extend as needed, no guarantee.
Equipment will be mailed to worker.
#TB_HC
#ZR

Why TalentBurst?
At TalentBurst, we deliver more than talent, we deliver outcomes. We partner with you to move quickly and connect you to opportunities aligned with your skills and long term growth.

Backed by precision, transparency, and results, we connect top talent with leading organizations through trusted partnerships.

We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement options.

TalentBurst is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce.

Company Description

Founded in 2002 by three former Monster.com executives; TalentBurst is an award-winning full-service Staffing Firm working directly with Fortune 500 companies in the US and Canada. We specialize in Contract and Contract to Permanent roles across many industries and have direct/contractual relationships with all our clients. Please visit our website www.talentburst.com or come meet us at our offices in Natick, MA, Miami, FL, Christiansburg, VA, Vineland, NJ, Houston, TX & downtown San Francisco, CA

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About TalentBurst

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

TalentBurst is a leading provider of Information Technology and Engineering staffing solutions based in Natick, Massachusetts, US. An industry veteran with two decades of experience in their portfolio, the company's services range from IT consulting, life sciences, HR solutions, payroll services, and more. TalentBurst was founded with a mission to provide world-class, global staffing services to clients of all sizes. They strive to provide unmatched quality and service to their clients, which has earned them the reputation of being a highly respected and trusted staffing firm.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Natick, MA, US

Year founded

2002

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