ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

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

All JobsMedical Coder JobsEntry Level Medical Coder JobsEntry Level Medical Coder Jobs in Salinas, CA

Entry Level Medical Coder information

See Salinas, CA salary details

$17

$24

$36

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level medical coder in Salinas, CA is $24.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $25.82 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.
More about Entry Level Medical Coder jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Salinas, CA? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Salinas, CA are:
What cities near Salinas, CA are hiring for Entry Level Medical Coder jobs? Cities near Salinas, CA with the most Entry Level Medical Coder job openings:
Entry Level Medical Coder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Medical Coder job openings in Salinas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,108 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Billing Clerk (Limited Term)

Salud Para la Gente

Watsonville, CA • On-site

$22.22 - $31.84/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Salud Para La Gente (SALUD) provides high quality, comprehensive and cost-effective medical, dental, behavioral health, optometry and other services to underserved, low-income communities in the Monterey Bay area, including Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. SALUD began in Watsonville in 1978 as a storefront free clinic, and became a FQHC (Federally Qualified Health Center) in 1992. With four health center sites, satellite and school-based health centers and over 400 employees, we provide high quality services to patients of all ages.
Under immediate supervision (Billing Clerk I), or general supervision (Billing Clerk II/III), of the Billing Supervisor or Manager, the Billing Clerk performs a full range of billing and revenue cycle support functions to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant processing of patient encounters and claims. This position supports organizational financial health by managing patient accounts, resolving billing issues, working with clinical and administrative staff, and providing responsive customer service to patients and payers.
This position supports the organization's mission, vision, and values through excellence and competence, collaboration, innovation, respect, commitment to our community, and accountability and ownership.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
Billing Clerk I: This is the entry-level, trainee class in the Billing Clerk series. Incumbents perform routine billing support duties while learning applicable systems, payer requirements, departmental procedures, and revenue cycle operations. Work is performed under close supervision with detailed instructions and review.
Billing Clerk II: This journey-level classification performs a full range of standard billing, payment posting, claim follow-up, and account resolution duties under general supervision. Incumbents independently process routine work using established procedures and resolve common discrepancies.
Billing Clerk III: This journey-level classification performs, in addition to any Billing Clerk II responsibilities, the most complex or specialized billing functions requiring extensive knowledge of payer rules, billing systems, and revenue cycle processes. Incumbents resolve complex account issues, recurring claim problems, and non-routine discrepancies requiring the most independent judgment.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Consistently adhere to SPLG communication guidelines and maintain professional interactions with patients, peers, and supervisors.
  2. Support patients with billing matters through effective communication.
  3. Respond to patient inquiries regarding balances, bills, or account correspondence professionally and timely; answer incoming calls courteously using proper phone etiquette.
  4. Task the Patient Service Representatives to update registrations or correct registration mistakes; charge posting and assist in payment posting across Salud specialties and payers accurately and confidentially within the practice management system; provide billing support and billing-related technical assistance to staff, clinical and administrative, as needed.
  5. Process encounters and claims, including reviews for errors, coordinating corrections, preparing batches for submission, and logging issues for reporting.
  6. Manage aged receivables and claim denials, change or correct billing codes, organize insurance correspondence and ensure accurate payments. This includes supporting payment posting, credit balance review, refunds, reconciliation activities, and coordination with Finance on revenue tracking and audits.
  7. Receive billing or revenue cycle in-service training and meetings as needed.
  8. Provide office support and backup for billing department functions, including posting charges and payments and preparing claims, assisting with month-end close.
  9. Coordinate with clinical staff to correct registration, missing charges/forms, and billing code issues (diagnosis, CPT/CDT/HCPCS).
  10. Communicate clinic payment policies and financial arrangements to patients.
  11. Maintain effective working relationships with diverse patients, employees, and partners.
  12. Support administrative tasks such as faxing, scanning, or sending patient financial records.
  13. Manage delinquent accounts by establishing and monitoring payment arrangements.
  14. Adhere to SPLG Mission, Vision, Values, Standards of Conduct, and HIPAA principles.
  15. Perform other billing duties as assigned.

Requirements
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:
Knowledge of:
  • Medical billing software and electronic health record (EHR) systems.
  • Federal and state health insurance rules and regulations.
  • Effective customer service skills for both internal and external stakeholders.
  • Familiarity with business email, communication systems, outlook and internet search capabilities.
  • Standard office practices and use of standard office equipment.
  • Basic math proficiency.
  • Health Registration practices and procedures.
  • Records procedures, medical terminology, and computerized recordkeeping.

Ability to:
  • Operate a 10-key calculator on a computer quickly and accurately.
  • Type a minimum of 35 wpm.
  • Perform required billing functions with a high degree of accuracy and appropriate speed.
  • Interface professionally and sensitively with all levels of personnel, including people of all social, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry.
  • Communicate effectively with Salud internal and external departments, insurance companies, patients, and healthcare providers.
  • Handle sensitive and confidential information in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
  • Prepare required reports.
  • Follow organization policies and procedures.
  • Organize and prioritize work efficiently.
  • Use sound independent judgment and think independently and analytically.
  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with Salud Para La Gente internal and external stakeholders.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Billing Clerk I
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • One (1) year of healthcare front office or healthcare administration experience.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English
  • Medical billing experience or internship/coursework in medical billing is desired.
  • Experience working in a specialty and or/FQHC community clinic is desired.

Billing Clerk II
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • One (1) year of experience equivalent to Salud's Billing Clerk I classification.
  • One (1) year of medical billing experience required.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English
  • Experience working in a specialty and or/FQHC community clinic is desired.

Billing Clerk III
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • One (1) year of experience equivalent to Salud's Billing Clerk II classification.
  • Two (2) years of medical billing experience required.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English
  • Experience working in a specialty and or/FQHC community clinic is desired.

Licenses and Certifications:
  • Certification in Medical Terminology, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, or a related field for Billing Clerk II/III
  • Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License or ability to provide suitable transportation between sites.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Standing, walking, sitting, typing, reaching, bending, moving and/or lifting up to 50 pounds.

SALARY & BENEFITS
Salary Range: (Note, this salary range does not take into effect until July 1st, 2026)
  • Billing Clerk I: $22.22 - $27.50 an hour
  • Billing Clerk II: $23.77 - $29.61an hour
  • Billing Clerk III: $25.55 - $31.84 an hour

Employment Type: Limited Term
Additional Information:
  • Employees on temporary assignments are eligible for holiday pay and California sick pay, both pro-rated based on hours worked.

**Salud is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Salud is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the Salud Human Resources Department, [831-728-8250, and HRDept@splg.org].
Salary Description
$22.22 - $31.84 an hour

Apply