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

Hospital Outpatient Coder

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Reviews medical record documentation to identify diagnoses/procedures to be coded Independently ... A01|SEIU|United Healthcare Workers West Job Level: Entry Level Department: Santa Clara Homestead ...

Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., ASHRAE, IMC). * Basic knowledge of HVAC Design ... Medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with company match * Paid time off and company ...

Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., ASHRAE, IMC). * Basic knowledge of HVAC Design ... Medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with company match * Paid time off and company ...

Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., ASHRAE, IMC). * Basic knowledge of HVAC Design ... Medical, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with company match * Paid time off and company ...

Take ownership of the code for a new software capability on ground or in space * Propose and ... including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401k retirement plan, short & long term ...

Take ownership of the code for a new software capability on ground or in space * Propose and ... including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401k retirement plan, short & long term ...

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Entry Level Medical Coder information

See Hayward, CA salary details

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$39

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

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level medical coder in Hayward, CA is $25.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 prepare newcomers for entry level roles, which often involve supervised work and on-the-job learning.

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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Hayward, CA?

The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Hayward, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Medical Coder jobs in Hayward, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Medical Coder jobs in Hayward, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Medical Coder jobs in Hayward, CA are:

What cities near Hayward, CA are hiring for Entry Level Medical Coder jobs?

Cities near Hayward, CA with the most Entry Level Medical Coder job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Medical Coder job openings in Hayward, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,470 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Hospital Outpatient Coder

Santa Clara, CA • On-site


Kaiser Permanente

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 922 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Must reside in Northern California
Under direct supervision, the Hospital Outpatient Coder is responsible for the accurate coding and abstracting of diagnoses, conditions and procedures from medical record documentation for Hospital Ambulatory Surgery (HAS), Home Health/Hospice (if applicable), Observation (OBS) and Hospital complex Outpatient Visit (CHOY) including capture of codes for outpatient services that require monitored anesthesia and conscious sedation. Working from appropriate documentation, assign the appropriate codes and modifiers with ICD-CM, CPT and HCPCS Level II codes.
All work must be performed in accordance with the rules, regulations and coding conventions of ICD-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, Coding Clinic published by the American Hospital Association, the ICD-CM, CPT and HCPCS code book, CPT Assistant, NCCI Edits, OSHPD and Kaiser Permanentes organizational and institutional coding guidelines.
Essential Responsibilities:
  • Review Medical Records to identify diagnoses/procedures.
  • Reviews medical record documentation to identify diagnoses/procedures to be coded Independently organizes and prioritizes work assignments to ensure that records are coded timely and compliantly in conformance with regulatory requirements.
  • Codes all appropriate diagnosis and procedures from the medical record using ICD-CM,
  • CPT and HCSPCS coding classification systems.
  • Responsible for the sequencing of diagnoses and procedure codes in accordance with guidelines outlined in ICD-CM, CPT, Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set, Medicare regulations and other appropriate classification systems.
  • Verifies and abstracts the appropriate data from the medical records to meet requirements for data submission and reporting. Corrects data as needed.
  • Ensures that all data abstracted is consistent with guidelines outlined by TJC, OSHPD, CMS, and regional and local KP policies.
  • Ensures the accuracy and integrity of data abstracted and coded based on medical record documentation prior to data submission or coding completion.
  • Interacts with physicians to clarify and accurately document patient diagnostic and procedural information when appropriate.
  • Ensures timely data completion by meeting coding/abstracting productivity/quality standards established for the position.
  • Confidentiality/Security of Systems: Maintains and complies with policies and procedures for confidentiality of all patient records.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of privacy and security of systems and associated policies and procedures for maintaining the security of the data contained within the systems.
  • Other Duties: Performs other duties as assigned.
Grade 565
Basic Qualifications:
Experience
  • Two years of continuous hospital coding/abstracting experience within the last five years.
Education
  • High School Diploma or GED and demonstrated completion of classes in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, current ICD-CM and CPT coding conventions and disease process from an accredited program.
License, Certification, Registration
  • Registered Health Information Technician OR Certified Professional Coder OR Certified Coding Specialist OR Certified Coding Associate OR Registered Health Information Administrator OR Certified Coding Specialist - Physician Based
Additional Requirements:
  • Achieve a minimum score of 75% on the Hospital Outpatient Coder test.
  • Basic knowledge of and use of computer keyboard and mouse.
  • Must be able to meet productivity and quality standards established for the position.
  • Demonstrated ability to understand the clinical content of a health record and translate into the appropriate code.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology and disease process to interpret general medical classifications for Hospital Ambulatory Services, Home Health/Hospice, and Hospital Observation.
  • Services and CHOY services that require monitored anesthesia or conscious sedation
  • Demonstrated knowledge pertaining to all guidelines that concern the coding and sequencing of diagnoses and procedures outlined in but not limited to current ICD-CM, CPT, Medicare guidelines and other sources.
  • Basic knowledge of reimbursement methodologies and conventions and knowledge of rules and guidelines for the appropriate and current coding classifications.
  • Must maintain coding credential and complete the required Continuing Education (CE) units.
  • Must abide by the AHIMA and/or AAPC code of ethics.
  • Must be willing to work in a Labor Management Partnership environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • N/A

Primary Location: California,Santa Clara,Santa Clara Hospital
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
Shift: Day
Workdays: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Working Hours Start: 07:00 AM
Working Hours End: 03:30 PM
Job Schedule: Full-time
Job Type: Standard
Employee Status: Regular
Worker Location: Remote
Employee Group/Union Affiliation: A01|SEIU|United Healthcare Workers West
Job Level: Entry Level
Department: Santa Clara Homestead Hospital - Hospital Coding Operations - 0208
Pay Range: $51.85 - $56.91 / 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.

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