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Entry Level Inpatient Coding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Inpatient Coding information

See California salary details

$15

$23

$33

How much do entry level inpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level inpatient coding in California is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Inpatient Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Inpatient Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and ICD-10-CM/PCS coding systems, typically supported by a certification such as CCA, CCS, or RHIT. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software is important for accurate and efficient code assignment. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help coders ensure precise documentation and compliance. These skills are essential to support accurate billing, reimbursement, and regulatory adherence in healthcare organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level inpatient coders, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level inpatient coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical documentation, learning various coding systems (like ICD-10-CM and PCS), and understanding hospital-specific billing requirements. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to actively seek mentorship from experienced coders, participate in ongoing training sessions, and regularly review coding guidelines and updates. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as coders frequently collaborate with healthcare providers to clarify documentation and ensure coding accuracy. With practice and support, new coders can quickly develop proficiency and confidence in their role.

What is entry level inpatient coding?

Entry level inpatient coding involves reviewing and assigning standardized medical codes to diagnoses and procedures documented in a patient’s hospital records. Coders use classification systems like ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS to ensure accurate billing and facilitate healthcare data analysis. As an entry-level position, it typically requires a foundational understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding guidelines, often supported by a coding certification. Coders play a vital role in helping hospitals receive appropriate reimbursement and maintain compliance with healthcare regulations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Inpatient Coding vs Medical Records Technician?

AspectEntry Level Inpatient CodingMedical Records Technician
CertificationsCPCT, CPC, CCS (preferred)RHIT, RHIA (preferred)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, healthcare facilitiesClinics, hospitals, healthcare offices
Job FocusAssigning inpatient diagnosis and procedure codesManaging and organizing patient records
Common Search IntentInpatient coding roles and certificationsMedical records management and coding

Entry Level Inpatient Coding primarily involves assigning codes to inpatient hospital stays, requiring coding certifications. Medical Records Technicians focus on organizing and maintaining patient records, often with similar certifications. While both roles work in healthcare settings, inpatient coding emphasizes coding accuracy for billing, whereas medical records technicians handle record management. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coding jobs in California? The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in California? For Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 20% Physical, 20% Hybrid, and 60% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,652 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Inpatient Medical Records Technician - Mental Health 177

Inpatient Medical Records Technician - Mental Health 177

Telecare Corporation

Santa Maria, CA

$21 - $22.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Telecare Corporation rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

“They made it easier for me to live, breathe, eat, and stay clean. Without them, I’d be waiting somewhere, waiting for someone to give me a chance to live...” - Client from Telecare 

What You Will Do to Change Lives 

The Medical Records Technician is responsible for the maintenance, storage and processing of all medical records and EHR data. This involves performing a variety of clerical and technical duties associated with the management and oversight of a program’s medical records including, but not limited to: assembling, analysis, release of information, data processing, collection, reconciliation and preparation of reports in a manner consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal and regulatory requirements of a mental health care system. Must be able to work independently and could interact and communicate both verbally and in writing with clients, family members, the public and physicians and staff. 

Shifts Available: 

Full-Time | AM | Shifts: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM | Days: Monday - Friday

Expected starting wage range is $21.00 - $22.52. Telecare applies geographic differentials to its pay ranges.  The pay range assigned to this role will be based on the geographic location from which the role is performed.  Starting pay is commensurate with relevant experience above the minimum requirements.  

This position supports two locations: 177- Carmen Lane & 367- Agnes Ave 

What You Bring to the Table (Must Have) 

  • One (1) year of EHR or healthcare information system experience in a psychiatric inpatient or outpatient program or acute hospital setting AND Credentialed as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA), through American Health Information Association (AHIMA)  

OR 

  • Two (2) years of EHR or healthcare information system experience in a psychiatric inpatient or outpatient program or acute hospital setting AND Completion of an approved Health Information/Medical Record Certificate Program 

 OR 

  • Three (3) years of EHR or management of a paper medical record systems experience in a outpatients or community based healthcare program environment. 
  • Working knowledge of managing a hybrid medical record system 
  • EHR System experience, Caminar, Avatar, Anasazi (desired) 
  • Knowledge of local, state and federal regulations, survey process, accreditation standards, and psychiatric requirements. 
  • Knowledge and application of appropriate coding systems; ICD-10 CM, DSMV 
  • Knowledge of documentation and legal issues pertaining to HIPAA, PHI and other health information. 

What’s In It for You* 

  • Paid Time Off: Eligible employees (20+ hours/week) earn PTO each pay period for vacation and personal needs, with pro-rated accrual for part-time schedules and annual carryover up to set caps.

  • Nine Paid Holidays & Shift differentials for hourly staff (6% for PM Shift, 10% for Overnight Shift).  Weekend Shift differentials for hourly staff (5% for Weekend AM Shift, 11% for Weekend PM Shift, 15% for Weekend Overnight Shift)

  • Free CEUs, free Supervision for BBS Associate License, coaching, and mentorship

  • Online University Tuition Discount and Company Scholarships  

  • Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance, 401K, Employee Stock Ownership Plan 

  • For more information visit:  https://www.telecarecorp.com/benefits 

Join Our Compassionate Team 

Telecare's mission is to deliver excellent and effective behavioral health services that engage individuals in recovering their health, hopes, and dreams. Telecare continues to advance cultural diversity, humility, equity, and inclusion at all levels of our organization by hiring mental health peers, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and all belief systems. 

Carmen Lane is a 12-bed crisis residential treatment (CRT) program providing comprehensive mental health and psychiatric treatment services in a safe, welcoming inpatient environment for adults with serious mental illness. We believe recovery starts from within, and that our job is to do whatever it takes to provide the support needed on your recovery journey in a comfortable, structured setting. Our team includes nurses, psychiatrists, clinicians, peer specialists, and recovery specialists providing support 24 hours a day.

EOE AA M/F/V/Disability 

*May vary by location and position type 

Full Job Description will be provided if selected for an interview. 

Data Specialist, Entry Level, Medical Records, MRT 

If job posting references any sign-on bonus internal applicants and applicants employed with Telecare in the previous 12 months would not be eligible. 


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About Telecare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1965, Telecare is a rapidly growing mental health care company dedicated to making a difference for our clients, the community, and our employees. We offer an array of mental health services to adults with serious mental illness. We partner with public sector entities and behavioral health organizations and have over 155 programs and over 4,300 employees across the country. And we're growing all the time! When you work at Telecare, you help to empower thousands of individuals every day in their journeys of recovery.

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alameda, CA, US

Year founded

1965

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