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Entry Level Medical Coder Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

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Entry Level Medical Coder information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$16

$23

$35

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level medical coder in Bakersfield, CA is $23.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $24.86 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.

How do I start entry level 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 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.

Can I do entry level 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 accept candidates with no prior experience if they complete relevant training or certification programs such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC). Training programs and certifications help develop the necessary skills for entry level medical coding roles, which often involve working in healthcare settings with standard office hours. Having a strong attention to detail and understanding of medical records can also improve job prospects for beginners.

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.

Is it hard to find an entry-level medical coder job?

Finding an entry-level medical coder job can be competitive, but opportunities are available for those with relevant certifications such as CPC or CCS and basic knowledge of medical coding systems. Entry-level positions often require strong attention to detail and familiarity with coding software, and job availability may vary by location and industry demand.

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.

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.
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For Entry Level Medical Coder jobs in Bakersfield, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Entry Level Medical Coder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Medical Coder job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,240 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Health Information Services Coder I - Physician Enterprise - Full Time - Temporary

Kern Medical

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$22.53 - $30.27/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Kern Medical rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Kern Medical has been a community cornerstone since its founding in 1867. Today, we are an acute care teaching center with 222 beds, offering the only advanced trauma care between Fresno and Los Angeles. Kern Medical offers a range of primary, specialty, and multi-specialty services, including high-risk pregnancy care, inpatient psychiatric services integrated with county mental health programs, and a growing network of outpatient clinics providing personalized patient-centered wellness care. Kern Medical cares for 15,500 inpatients and 125,000 clinic patients a year.
Kern Medical strives to recruit the highest quality candidates, resulting in a high performance workforce that consistently delivers quality patient care.
  • Extra-help employment has a limited term (up to 9 months).
  • Health Benefits coverage may be offered.

Position: Health Information Services Coder I - Temporary
Compensation:
The estimated pay for this position is $22.5260 to $30.2730. This reflects only a portion of the total compensation package for this position. Additional compensation may be available for this role through differentials, incentives, and bonuses.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This is the entry level in the flexible series of Health Information Services Coder I/II. Assignments at this level involve routine coding and abstracting functions, performed under close supervision. Promotion to Health Information Services Coder II is considered on a merit basis and is subject to recommendation of the Department Head and approval by the Director of Personnel.
Essential Functions:
  • Codes and abstracts routine patient medical record information according to the International Classification of Diseases Clinical Modification Systems (ICD) and the current procedure terminology (CPT) Manual and coding conventions and guidelines as established by the Coding Clinic and Office of Statewide Health Planning Department (OSHPD) reporting requirements.
  • Assists with statewide Office of Statewide Health Planning Department (OSHPD) reporting by determining accurate identification of the Diagnostic Related Group (DRG) for proper reimbursement.
  • Reviews medical records documentation/information and verifies coding and DRG assignments in response to billing requests.
  • Responds to authorized request from agencies, administration and individuals regarding DRG coding questions or concerns.
  • Maintains a working knowledge of current guidelines and regulations affecting code assignments through continuing education sessions and approved references such as journals, workshops and teleconferences.

Other Functions:
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Employment Standards:
One year of diagnostic and procedure coding experience in a hospital, health care facility, or physician's office.
OR
Completion of a medical coding program whereby the necessary skills were obtained to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
Knowledge of:
Standards and regulations pertaining to the maintenance of patient medical records; medical records coding systems; medical terminology; anatomy and physiology and study of diseases; health information systems for computer application to medical records.
Ability to:
Utilize the ICD classification system to code medical record entries; abstract information from medical records; read medical record notes and reports; set accurate Diagnostic Related Groups; comply with the American Health Information Management Associate's Code of Ethics and Standards of Ethical Coding and applicable Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set (UHDDS) standards; use computers and various software to accomplish work.
Supplemental:
A background check may be conducted for this classification.
All Kern County employees are designated "Disaster Service Workers" through state and local laws (CA Government Code Sec.3100-3109 and Ordinance Code Title 2-Administration, Ch. 2.66 Emergency Services). As Disaster Service Workers, all County employees are expected to remain at work, or to report for work as soon as practicable, following a significant emergency or disaster.
If position responsibilities require driving a personal vehicle, then possession of a current valid California Driver's License and adherence to the Kern County Hospital Authority Vehicle Use and Driving Standard Policy (ENG-EC-119) is required.
If position responsibilities require driving a vehicle owned, leased or rented by Kern Medical, then possession of a current valid California Driver's license, a signed authorization for Release of Drivers Record Information and adherence to the Kern County Hospital Authority Vehicle Use and Driving Standard Policy (ENG-EC-119) is required.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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