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Entry Level Medical Coder Jobs in Alameda, CA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator/ Assembler

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $22.75/hr

... Entry-level manufacturing role focused on assembling, testing, and repairing high-quality medical ... Strict cleanroom dress code and hygiene standards * Requires manual dexterity and handling of ...

Retail Merchandising/PT

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

You will be within your zip code and if you have too travel outside your zip code you will be ... Being part-time you do also get benefits such as 401k ,medical, dental and vision plan that are ...

Retail Merchandising/PT

Danville, CA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

You will be within your zip code and if you have too travel outside your zip code you will be ... Being part-time you do also get benefits such as 401k ,medical, dental and vision plan that are ...

Retail Merchandising/PT

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

You will be within your zip code and if you have too travel outside your zip code you will be ... Being part-time you do also get benefits such as 401k ,medical, dental and vision plan that are ...

retail merchandising- PT

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

You will be within your zip code and if you have too travel outside your zip code you will be ... Being part-time you do also get benefits such as 401k ,medical, dental and vision plan that are ...

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Entry Level Medical Coder information

See Alameda, CA salary details

$17

$25

$38

How much do entry level medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level medical coder in Alameda, CA is $25.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry-Level Medical Coder Do?

An entry-level medical coder works in the billing department of hospitals, doctor's offices, and other healthcare facilities. Entry-level medical coders transfer healthcare services and claims into universal medical codes for insurance reimbursement purposes. To become an entry-level medical coder, you must have excellent attention to detail and a solid base knowledge of medical terminology, procedure and visit authorizations, and insurance billing procedures. While not required, some employers prefer entry-level medical coders to have an associate degree in medical coding or the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential. When you first start in this entry-level position, your employer may have you shadow veteran medical coders to become proficient in the medical codes and be supervised when you first submit claims.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, typically supported by a certification such as CPC or CCA. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) software and coding tools is essential for efficient and accurate data entry. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help ensure coding precision and compliance. These skills are crucial for maintaining accurate billing, reducing claim denials, and supporting the financial health of healthcare providers.

Will AI eventually replace medical coders?

Medical coders play a crucial role in translating healthcare diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes, and AI tools are increasingly used to assist with coding tasks. However, human oversight is essential to ensure accuracy, interpret complex cases, and maintain compliance, so AI is more likely to augment rather than fully replace medical coders in the near future.

What is the difference between Entry Level Medical Coder vs Medical Biller?

AspectEntry Level Medical CoderMedical Biller
CertificationsCPMA, CPC, CCS (entry level)Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS), Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, physician officesBilling companies, healthcare providers, insurance companies
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssigning codes to diagnoses and proceduresSubmitting claims, follow-up on payments
OverlapHigh in coding and billing processes

While both roles are essential in healthcare revenue cycle management, an Entry Level Medical Coder focuses on translating medical documentation into standardized codes, whereas a Medical Biller handles the financial aspect by submitting claims and managing payments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within healthcare administration.

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

Entry level medical coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical documentation, staying current with frequent updates to coding standards, and managing productivity expectations. To overcome these, it’s helpful to develop strong attention to detail, regularly review coding guidelines (such as ICD-10 and CPT), and seek feedback from experienced colleagues. Many organizations also provide mentorship or training programs to help new coders build confidence and accuracy in their work.

How do you get a coding job with no experience?

Entry level medical coding jobs often require a certification such as CPC or CCS but may not require prior work experience. To improve chances, complete a recognized training program, gain knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems, and consider internships or volunteer opportunities to build skills and demonstrate commitment.

How do I start medical coding for beginners?

To start as an entry-level medical coder, obtain a relevant certification such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Gain knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and consider completing a training program or course to build foundational skills before applying for entry-level positions.

What is an entry level medical coder?

An entry level medical coder is a professional who reviews clinical documents and assigns standardized codes to medical diagnoses and procedures for billing and insurance purposes. They typically work in hospitals, clinics, or physician offices under the supervision of experienced coders. Entry level medical coders use classification systems such as ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS, ensuring accuracy and compliance with healthcare regulations. This role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in medical coding, often after completing a relevant certification or training program.

Can I do medical coding with no experience?

Entry level medical coding positions typically require some knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, but many employers are willing to hire candidates with no prior experience if they complete training or certification programs. Certification such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) can improve job prospects, and on-the-job training is often provided for new coders. Having strong attention to detail and familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems can also be beneficial.
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Alameda, CA? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Alameda, CA are:
What cities near Alameda, CA are hiring for Entry Level Medical Coder jobs? Cities near Alameda, CA with the most Entry Level Medical Coder job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Medical Coder job openings in Alameda, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Locum Tenens, 55% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 57% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,858 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Health Information Coder 1 (Sign on Bonus eligible)

Health Information Coder 1 (Sign on Bonus eligible)

University of California San Francisco

Emeryville, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description


***New Hires are eligible for a Sign-On Bonus***
JOB SUMMARY
The Health Information Coder I is an entry level coder with a basic knowledge and skill set to utilize ICD-10-CM, CPT and HCPCS classifications systems to code across various healthcare settings, including outpatient, emergency department, and ancillary services. This role ensures coding accuracy, compliance with regulatory guidelines, and adherence to UCSF policies, supporting proper reimbursement and revenue cycle integrity. The Coder I collaborates with healthcare providers, revenue cycle teams, and compliance departments to resolve documentation issues and maintain high standards of coding performance.
The employee will work eight (8) hours per day, excluding meal periods, on five (5) consecutive days within a workweek. The workweek schedule is set between the employee and the manager and may be scheduled to start any day of the week based on manager approval.
DEPARTMENTAL OVERVIEW
UCSF's Health Information Management department maintains health records for all inpatient, outpatient, and same-day surgery services. These records are protected under HIPPA and California state law, ensuring privacy and confidentiality. The coding department at UCSF is responsible for translating detailed clinical documentation, such as diagnoses, procedures, and services into standardized alphanumeric codes that can be understood by all parts of the healthcare system. Its main purpose is to ensure accurate communication, billing, compliance, and data use across hospitals, clinics, insurers, and public health agencies.
***Note: We are offering a new hire sign-on bonus of $2,000. All external new hires who have not worked for a UC in the last 12 months are eligible. The bonus is payable after 30 days of continuous employment.
Responsibilities
of time
Essential Function (Yes/No)
Key Responsibilities
(To be completed by Supervisor)
100
  1. Assigns accurate ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes for diagnoses, procedures, and services based on documentation in the medical record.
  2. Knowledge of Evaluation and Management code assignment.
  3. Ensures coding compliance with federal regulations, payer policies, UCSF standards, and industry guidelines including LCD/NCD requirements.
  4. Reviews medical records and abstracts necessary information, ensuring documentation supports assigned codes for billing and reimbursement.
  5. Resolves coding edits, discrepancies, and denials, collaborating with appropriate departments to ensure accurate claim submission.
  6. Maintains productivity and quality benchmarks achieving organizational accuracy standards and ensuring timely completion of coding assignments.
  7. Participates in ongoing education and training, staying updated on changes in ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS and regulatory compliance.
  8. Works with revenue cycle teams, providers, and compliance staff to clarify documentation and coding-related issues.
  9. Uses electronic medical records, coding software, and hospital billing systems to perform daily coding activities.
  10. Report to a lead or manager.
  11. Interact with internal and external UCSF Health staff and customers.
  12. Satisfactory time and attendance

100%
(To update total %, enter the amount of time in whole numbers (without the % symbol - e.g., 15, 20) then highlight the total sum (e.g., 1%) at the bottom of the column and press F9. The total sum should add up to 100%.)
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school graduation or G.E.D.
  • 1-3 years of healthcare coding or related healthcare experience.
  • Must pass the initial knowledge assessment test with a score of 80%.
  • Must meet daily production requirement with minimal accuracy rate of 95%.
  • Basic EHR and encoder skills
  • Basic computer skills, including Windows, Word and Excel.
  • Proven excellent communication and cooperative skills.
  • Ability to analyze information, make decisions and exercise independent judgment.
  • Ability to follow written directions.
  • Ability to prioritize work and manage time effectively.
  • Ability to meet deadlines and perform well under pressure.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology, medical abbreviations, disease processes, anatomy and physiology.
  • Knowledge of the ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS and CPT classification systems.

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
  • Certified Outpatient Code (COC), Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), Certified Coding Specialist - Physician-based (CCS-P), Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) or other coding certification.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION
  • Knowledge of HIMS database systems.
  • Knowledge of HIMS procedures.

About Us
About UCSF
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.
Pride Values
UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.
In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.
Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
Salary Information
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.
Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

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