2

Entry Level Inpatient Coding Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Physician Coder (FT)

Victoria, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... inpatient, and outpatient encounters as well as coding for in-office ancillary services and minor ... Completion of an approved medical coding program; entry level knowledge of medical coding.

Advanced Practice Provider (APP)

Austin, TX

$86K - $118K/yr

Level 1 is entry-level and typically requires a minimum of 0-3 years of experience. Level 2 ... Direct care and management in the outpatient/inpatient/surgical setting to include documentation of ...

UMC Physical Therapist

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

... entry level accepted. Environmental / Working Conditions Works inside under normal temperature ... for Acute Inpatient or Wound care. The therapist is expected to maintain the highest level of ...

UMC Physical Therapist

Lubbock, TX

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

One year clinical experience is preferred, entry level accepted * Environmental / Working ... for Acute Inpatient or Wound care. The therapist is expected to maintain the highest level of ...

UMC Assistant Licensed Phy The

Lubbock, TX

$22.75 - $30/hr

One year clinical experience preferred, entry level accepted * Environmental / Working Conditions ... Acute Inpatient of Wound care areas. The therapist is expected to maintain the highest level of ...

UMC Assistant Licensed Phy The

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

One year clinical experience preferred, entry level accepted * Environmental / Working Conditions ... Acute Inpatient of Wound care areas. The therapist is expected to maintain the highest level of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Inpatient Coding information

See Texas salary details

$14

$22

$31

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

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level inpatient coding in Texas is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a coder with no experience?

Entry level inpatient coding positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, and gaining certification such as the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) can improve job prospects. Beginners should focus on learning medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and consider completing a coding training program or course to build foundational skills. Practical experience through internships or volunteer work can also help establish competence in the field.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For entry-level inpatient coding roles, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher salaries than Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is more specialized in hospital coding. However, salaries also depend on experience, location, and employer, with CCS often commanding a premium due to its focus on inpatient and facility coding. Both certifications can increase earning potential and job opportunities in medical coding.

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.

How much do beginner coders make?

Entry-level inpatient coders typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location, certification, and employer. Starting salaries may be lower for those without certification or limited experience, but with skills in coding systems like ICD-10 and familiarity with electronic health records, earnings can increase with experience.

Can I get a medical coding job with no experience?

Entry level inpatient coding jobs often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a coding certification such as CPC or CCS. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of medical terminology, and familiarity with coding software are important for success in these roles.

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Texas? For Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 7% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,928 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Outpatient Coding Specialist I - (PRN) Remote

Outpatient Coding Specialist I - (PRN) Remote

Citizens Medical Center

Victoria, TX

$20.75 - $33.50/hr

Per diem

Posted 18 days ago


Citizens Medical Center (Texas) rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

879th of 999 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

Provide the outpatient coding skills necessary for the coding of all diagnoses and procedures after a thorough review of medical record for optimal reimbursement.

Job Specific:

  1. Responsible for coding and abstracting outpatient accounts, not to exceed a bill hold status of three (3) days post the date of service/discharge.(EF)
  2. Maintains productivity standards for assigned work type with a minimum of 95% accuracy(EF)
    1. Observation = 5/hours
    2. Emergency Department = 15/hour
    3. Outpatient Testing = 30/hour
    4. Ambulatory Surgery = 5/hour
    5. Inpatient = 2/hour
  3. Assigns ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT codes with accuracy, ensuring that all assigned codes have adequate physician documentation.(EF)
  4. Understands computer systems and possesses the ability to reconcile various accounts, charges, including correcting discharge dates, and requesting billing to link accounts, as necessary.(EF)
  5. Works independently in coding as a remote employee.  Troubleshoots and assists analysis of system issues independently with IT assistance.
  6. At the start of each day, review your virtual and coding worklists in Optum to prioritize work.
  7. Reviews medical record for medical diagnosis/procedures ensuring assignment of all diagnosis treated and procedures performed.(EF)
  8. Analyzes charges for edits and pends account for charge review and/or modifier correction to ensure an accurate claim at the time of billing.
  9. Utilizes Optum computer-assisted coding and encoder to assign ICD-10-CM/PCS codes, CPT codes, and modifiers and validates the E&M level based on the medical record documentation.(EF)
  10. Approves the code assignment by sending account to billing.(EF)
  11. Completes physician and/or provider query for documentation clarification/missing documentation when appropriate.

Hospital:

  1. Adheres to organization-wide and other applicable policies and procedures.
  2. Day-to-day performance complies with the hospital’s Service Excellence Behavioral Expectations.
  3. Performs within the prescribed limits of the hospital’s Ethics, Compliance and Confidentiality Program guidelines.
  4. Performs within professional Scope of Practice at all times.

Other Duties As Assigned:

  • Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Job Requirements

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Required: Successful completion of an approved coding program

Preferred: Associate’s degree in health-related field OR possess preferred licensure/certification listed below along with high school diploma.

EXPERIENCE

Preferred: Six (6) months coding experience in an inpatient or outpatient setting.

Special Skills and Abilities

Required: Entry level ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT coding knowledge.

Preferred: Advanced Outpatient ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT coding knowledge and scoring a minimum of 80% on pre-employment coding test.

LICENSURE / CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Required: Certificate of completion of approved coding program   

Preferred: AHIMA Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

COMPANY PROFILE

Citizens Medical Center is a not-for-profit, community hospital known for compassionate patient care, clinical expertise, and bringing advanced medical services to the South Texas region since 1956. Today, Citizens is a 317-bed acute care hospital with over 1,200 employees. Voted “Best of the Best” hospital in Victoria for 13 consecutive years, Citizens Medical Center is a level III Trauma Center, with a newly renovated 24/7 Emergency Department that includes an onsite medical helicopter. Citizens has a comprehensive Community Cancer Program that includes two linear accelerators and HDR brachytherapy. Citizens is recognized for its outstanding cardiology program which includes a nationally accredited Chest Pain Center and is a Primary Stroke Center. Citizens also includes a comprehensive, accredited Bariatric Surgery program, Birth Center with labor and delivery, an imaging and surgery center, sleep study center, state-of-the-art rehabilitation and fitness center, urology center and daVinci robotics minimally invasive surgery options, a home health agency, and has a long history of providing continuing education for healthcare providers and the community.

Citizens Medical Center is looking for employees who actively demonstrate service excellence by exemplifying our iCare values. If you are someone who displays respect and enthusiasm for patients, visitors, and coworkers while consistently upholding the hospital’s commitment to providing outstanding outcomes, service excellence, and fiscal responsibility, then you could be a good fit for the CMC team!                              


What Citizens Medical Center (Texas) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom