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Drg Coder Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Inpatient Coder

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31/hr

Assign codes and modifiers using the appropriate version of ICD-CM, ICD-PCS, CPT and HCPCS as well ... Determines that the DRG is appropriate for each case and reviews DRG discrepancies to ensure ...

Inpatient Coder

Oakland, CA · On-site

$25 - $30.25/hr

Assign codes and modifiers using the appropriate version of ICD-CM, ICD-PCS, CPT and HCPCS as well ... Determines that the DRG is appropriate for each case and reviews DRG discrepancies to ensure ...

Assigns appropriate DRG/APC prospective payment systems and classifications, to reflect the ... Assists with internal coding audit and training activities Cottage Health is a leading acute care ...

CDI Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$37 - $49.75/hr

Strong understanding of MS-DRG , coding concepts, and CMS documentation standards. * Experience with concurrent reviews and provider queries. * Strong written and verbal communication and ability to ...

HIM Coder II

Goleta, CA · On-site

$39.07 - $59.58/hr

Assigns appropriate DRG/APC prospective payment systems and classifications, to reflect the ... Assists with internal coding audit and training activities Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS: All job ...

Responsible for the auditing of inpatient coders and/or inpatient "audit the auditors" to ensure coding accuracy and DRG accuracy of a minimum of 95% is met. * Perform quality checks/audits on visits ...

Showing results 21-40

Drg Coder information

See California salary details

$15

$27

$42

How much do drg coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for drg coder in California is $27.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DRG coder?

DRG coders are medical coding professionals who assign Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) codes to inpatient hospital records. These codes are used to classify hospital cases into groups for the purpose of reimbursement, billing, and data analysis. DRG coders analyze clinical documentation and translate diagnoses, procedures, and patient information into standardized codes according to official guidelines. Their work ensures hospitals receive proper payment from insurance providers and government programs. Accuracy and compliance with regulations are critical in this role.

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

To thrive as a DRG Coder, you need a strong understanding of medical coding, anatomy, and disease processes, often supported by a coding certification such as CCS, RHIT, or CPC. Familiarity with coding systems like ICD-10-CM/PCS, encoder software, and hospital information systems is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are important soft skills for ensuring coding accuracy and collaborating with clinical staff. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurate reimbursement, regulatory compliance, and supporting overall healthcare data quality.

What are some common challenges faced by DRG coders in accurately assigning codes, and how can they overcome these challenges?

DRG Coders often face challenges such as incomplete or ambiguous clinical documentation, rapidly changing coding guidelines, and the pressure to meet productivity standards while ensuring accuracy. To overcome these obstacles, coders should actively collaborate with physicians for clarifications, participate in ongoing education to stay current with coding updates, and utilize internal audit feedback to continuously improve their skills. Building strong communication channels with clinical and billing teams also helps in resolving discrepancies efficiently.

What is the difference between Drg Coder vs Medical Coder?

AspectDrg CoderMedical Coder
CertificationsAHIMA or AAPC certifications, specialized in DRG assignmentCertified Professional Coder (CPC), general coding certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, inpatient facilities, focusing on inpatient codingClinics, outpatient facilities, focusing on outpatient coding
Job FocusAssigning Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs) for inpatient billingConverting medical records into standardized codes for billing and documentation

While both Drg Coders and Medical Coders handle medical coding, Drg Coders specialize in inpatient coding and DRG assignment, often requiring specific certifications and experience with hospital billing. Medical Coders have a broader scope, working in outpatient settings with different coding systems. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus.

Are Drg coders still in demand?

DRG coders, also known as diagnosis-related group coders, are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for accurate medical coding in healthcare reimbursement. The role requires knowledge of coding systems like ICD and CPT, and demand is expected to remain stable as healthcare providers and insurers prioritize precise coding for billing and compliance.

What cities in California are hiring for Drg Coder jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drg Coder job openings:

Infographic showing various Drg Coder job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 57% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 41% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,433 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Coder II - Full Time - Days - 8hr QVH

Emanate Health

West Covina, CA • On-site

$33.95 - $48.55/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Emanate Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Current Emanate Health Employees - Please log into your Workday account to apply
Everyone at Emanate Health plays a vital role in the care we deliver. No matter what department you belong to, the work you do at Emanate Health affects lives. When you join Emanate Health, you become part of a team that works together to strengthen our communities and grow as individuals.
On Glassdoor's list of "Best Places to Work" in 2021, Emanate Health was named the #1 ranked health care system in the United States, and the #19 ranked company in the country.
Job Summary
Assigns and sequence diagnostic/procedural codes to in-patient and outpatient medical records for billing, reimbursement and data retrieval by following established coding guidelines. Reviews documentation for accurate abstracting of clinical data to meet regulatory and compliance requirements.
Job Requirements
Minimum Education Requirement:
High School Diploma or equivalent work experience required; college degree preferred with coursework in Medical Terminology/Anatomy & Physiology and Computer experience.
Minimum Experience Requirement:
One to three years of prior coding experience. Knowledge of MS-DRG, APR-DRG, ICD-10CM/PCS and CPT required. Knowledge of computerized encoder programs. Excellent customer service skills.
Minimum License Requirement:
CCS required.
Delivering world-class health care one patient at a time.
Pay Range:
$33.95 - $48.55

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