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Entry Level Inpatient Coding Jobs in Los Angeles, CA

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Entry Level Inpatient Coding information

See Los Angeles, CA salary details

$17

$25

$36

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level inpatient coding in Los Angeles, CA is $25.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.55 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Can you get a job as an entry level inpatient coder with no experience?

Entry level inpatient coding positions typically require some knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10, and often a certification such as CPC or CCS. While prior experience is not always mandatory, employers usually look for relevant training or certification, and on-the-job training is common for new coders entering inpatient settings.

How to become an entry level inpatient coder?

To become an entry-level inpatient coder, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a coding certification program such as the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC). Gaining knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10-CM and CPT, and understanding hospital coding guidelines are essential, and some employers may prefer candidates with internship or on-the-job training experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Los Angeles, CA?

The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Los Angeles, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Los Angeles, CA?

For Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Los Angeles, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Los Angeles, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Los Angeles, CA are:

Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings in Los Angeles, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,119 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Cardiac Surgery Tech - Sunset Med Ctr - OR

Kaiser Permanente

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$46.03 - $51/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Under direct supervision, acts as member of cardiac team; completes all necessary arrangements before surgery; removes instruments, equipment and supplies after surgery; maintains equipment according to established procedures; assists with orienting and training new employees and or students; assists with emergency calls and coordinating transfer to operating rooms. Essential Responsibilities:
  • Patient Procedures and Activities: Assist physician during minor surgical procedures.
  • Assist in obtaining tissue specimens.
  • Assist physician in developing new techniques and procedures.
  • Follow standard infection control procedures.
  • Lift patients.
  • Prepare and position patients for diagnostic test and medical procedures.
  • Respond to emergencies (i.e., stat pages, Code Blue0 and stat request.
  • Shave and apply antiseptic solutions to patient skin areas.
  • Assist in cardiovascular procedures.
  • Assist physician with inpatient pacemaker procedures.
  • Act as member of cardiac surgery team and other surgery team (for example, pass instruments, cut sutures, and hold retractors)
  • Assist in insertion/removal of intra-aortic balloon in cardiac surgery.
  • Equipment and Instruments: Operate autoclave, drying oven or dishwasher.
  • Assemble/disassemble equipment and instruments.
  • Ensure equipment is available for procedures and examinations.
  • Check emergency equipment.
  • Prepare and process packs, supplies, equipment and instruments.
  • Prepare procedure and exam rooms.
  • Restock operating, procedure, cast and examination rooms.
  • Select and set out appropriate tubing and sterile supplies.
  • Set up instruments and surgical trays.
  • Dismantle and clean operating room equipment.
  • Maintain sterilized supplies, instruments and equipment for surgical procedures.
  • Remove and inventory equipment and supplies after surgical procedures.
  • Clean and sterilize instrument, supplies and equipment.
  • Inspect equipment and instruments for damage.
  • Maintain equipment in good working order.
  • Perform minor adjustments and or repairs on equipment.
  • Dispose of used syringes and contaminated materials.
  • Replenish supplies and equipment.
  • Administrative and other: Orient and train new or less experienced personnel.
  • Serve as resource person to co-workers by answering procedural questions and assisting in problem solving.
  • Assume other activities and responsibilities from time to time as directed.
Pay Grade: 25
Basic Qualifications:
Experience
  • One (1) year of operating room experience scrubbing within the last two years required.
  • Per the National Agreement, current KP Coalition employees have this experience requirement waived.
Education
  • N/A
License, Certification, Registration
  • Basic Life Support
  • Surgical Technologist Certificate within three (3) months of hire from National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting
Additional Requirements:
  • Competency scrubbing for all types of surgical procedures.
  • Cardiac experience is strongly preferred.
Notes:
  • Minimum of 10-shifts availability per month.
  • Can be scheduled to work on weekends.
  • Standby/call coverage may be included but not regularly.

Primary Location: California,Los Angeles,Los Angeles Medical Center
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 1
Shift: Day
Workdays: Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Working Hours Start: 06:00 AM
Working Hours End: 02:30 PM
Job Schedule: Call-in/On-Call
Job Type: Standard
Employee Status: Regular
Worker Location: Onsite
Employee Group/Union Affiliation: B01|SEIU|Local 399
Job Level: Entry Level
Department: Sunset Medical Center - Operating Room-4 - 0801
Pay Range: $46.03 - $51 / hour Kaiser Permanente strives to offer a market competitive total rewards package and is committed to pay equity and transparency. The posted pay range is based on possible base salaries for the role and does not reflect the full value of our total rewards package. Actual base pay determined at offer will be based on labor market data, internal alignment, and a candidate's years of relevant work experience, education, certifications, skills, and geographic location.
Travel: No Kaiser Permanente is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic or status. For jobs where work will be performed in unincorporated LA County, the employer provides the following statement in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship on the following job duties, potentially resulting in the withdrawal of the conditional offer of employment:
  • Consistently supports compliance and the Principles of Responsibility (Kaiser Permanente's Code of Conduct) by maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of information, protecting the assets of the organization, acting with ethics and integrity, reporting non-compliance, and adhering to applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, accreditation, and licensure requirements (where applicable), and Kaiser Permanente's policies and procedures.
  • Models and reinforces ethical behavior in self and others in accordance with the Principles of Responsibility, adheres to organizational policies and guidelines; supports compliance initiatives; maintains confidences; admits mistakes; conducts business with honesty, shows consistency in words and actions; follows through on commitments.
  • Job duties with at least occasional or possible access to: (1) patients, the general public, or other employees; (2) confidential protected health information and other confidential KP information (including employee, proprietary, financial or trade secret information); (3) KP property and assets, for example, electronic assets, medical instruments, or devices; (4) controlled substances regulated by federal law or potentially subject to diversion.

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