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Entry Level Medical Coder Jobs in Utica, NY (NOW HIRING)

Trains and assists new and entry level mechanics as needed to ensure that staff members can perform ... Medical, dental and vision insurance * Life insurance and disability protection * Retirement ...

Entry Level Medical Coder information

See Utica, NY salary details

$16

$22

$35

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level medical coder in Utica, NY is $22.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $24.57 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 Utica, NY?

The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Utica, NY are:

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

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Medical Coder jobs in Utica, NY are:

What cities near Utica, NY are hiring for Entry Level Medical Coder jobs?

Cities near Utica, NY with the most Entry Level Medical Coder job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Medical Coder job openings in Utica, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,646 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Customer Care Advocate IA - Utica/Albany areas

Lthc

Utica, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Summary

The Customer Care (CC) Advocate resolves customer inquiries via telephone, walk in, mail, fax, web chat, off-phone work, and email concerning, but not limited to, contract benefits, claim payments, and enrollment in accordance with MTM, Corporate Service strategy, NCQA, and legislative requirements. The Customer Care Advocate provides service for customers and business partners while responding in a professional, efficient, and timely manner to resolve issues and enhance member & provider satisfaction/retention. The B version of this role requires the individual to speak Spanish fluently.

Essential Responsibilities/Accountabilities

All Levels

  • Provides service among the customers and business partners while responding in a professional, efficient, and timely manner to enhance member and provider satisfaction and retention. Must exercise tact, patience, and professionalism at all times in responding to internal/external customers.

  • Documents, researches, interprets and responds to inquiries from internal and external customers, business partners and special groups concerning our products, services and policies in accordance with MTM, NCQA, HIPAA, NYSDOH, CMS and other legislative requirements.

  • By utilizing appropriate resources, resolves customer inquiries accurately & efficiently resulting in acceptable quality, First Contact Resolution, and performance.

  • Provides outreach related to claims, onboarding, effectuation, retention, provider inquiries, and any other complex inquiry.

  • Demonstrates willingness to adapt and be flexible to changes and business needs while taking ownership and accountability for issue identification and resolution.

  • Ongoing participation in meetings, training, and skill development to support career path and individual development plans.

  • Is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the company and our products and/or services.

  • Identifies and follows through on issues impacting the Health Plan and customer experience.

  • Develops effective internal working relationships for improved communication and collaboration.

  • Shares ideas and solutions to improve processes, procedures, and systems.

  • Consistently demonstrates high standards of integrity by supporting the Lifetime Healthcare Companies' mission and values, adhering to the Corporate Code of Conduct, and Leading to the Lifetime Way values and beliefs.

  • Maintains high regard for member privacy in accordance with the corporate privacy policies and procedures.

  • Regular reliable attendance is expected and required.

  • Performs other functions as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications

NOTE: We include multiple levels of classification differentiated by demonstrated knowledge, skills, and the ability to manage increasingly independent and/or complex assignments, broader responsibility, additional decision making, and in some cases, becoming a resource to others. In addition to using this differentiated approach to place new hires, it also provides guideposts for employee development and promotional opportunities.

Level I:

  • High School diploma or equivalent required.

  • Customer service experience preferred.

  • Entry level position. Duties performed under close supervision.

  • Attends all training required to become proficient in position.

  • B Version: Bi-lingual English/Spanish required (must have ability to speak Spanish fluently).

  • Ability to multi-task in order to efficiently resolve customer concerns, by actively listening to the customer, navigating screens on the computer, typing call documentation, and speaking to the customer simultaneously.

  • Excellent computer skills required, including the ability to navigate in a Windows environment. Skillful at working between multiple programs and applications at the same time.

  • Adept at communicating effectively and diplomatically while working as a collaborative team member.

  • Organizational, reasoning and problem-solving skills.

  • Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize, multitask, and work in fast paced environment and remain professional and focused under multiple pressures and demands.

  • Completed training on at least one part of Scheduling unit.

Level Il - in addition to Level I requirements:

  • Rating of "Performing" or above on the Agent Dashboard and Competencies for a minimum of 9 out of 12 months.

  • Completed training on all parts of scheduling unit.

  • Ability to efficiently resolve complex & escalated issues with minimal direction.

  • Advanced system and navigational skills.

  • Expanded communication skills across multiple channels including, but not limited to, voicemail, email, web chat, outbound calls, membership growth, retention, etc.

  • Takes accountability and ownership of issues and resolution with minimal supervision.

  • Dental & Medical Intake Units Specific:

    • Rating of "Performing" or above on the Agent Dashboard and Competencies for a minimum of 9 out of 12 months.

    • -OR- Move to & complete training for Commercial Unit.

Level III - in addition to Level II requirements:

  • Rating of "Performing" or above on the Agent Dashboard and Competencies for a minimum 10 out of 12 additional months.

  • Self-sufficient in resolving complex & escalated issues.

  • Provide mentoring and support to new hires and peer group.

  • Assist with tasks assigned by management that require advanced problem-solving skills.

  • Demonstrates global thinking and takes initiative to recognize opportunities within the team.

  • Dental & Medical Intake Units Specific:

    • There is no level III option for these two units. Must move to Commercial unit to continue level progression.

  • Commercial Unit Specific:

    • Rating of "Performing" or above on the Agent Dashboard and Competencies for a minimum of 10 out of 12 months.

    • -OR- Move to & complete training for Dedicated Unit.

Physical Requirements

  • Work is completed in a traditional office environment under fluorescent lighting.

  • Ability to arrive on time at work and as scheduled.

  • Ability to meet minimum performance metrics.

  • Must be able to function while sitting at a desk viewing a computer and using a keyboard and mouse for 3 or more hours at a time.

  • Must be able to travel across the enterprise.

  • Regularly required to talk.

  • Regularly required to hear.

************

In support of the Americans with Disabilities Act, this job description lists only those responsibilities and qualifications deemed essential to the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Compensation Range(s):

Grade N2: Minimum $18.22 - Maximum $23.89

The salary range indicated in this posting represents the minimum and maximum of the salary range for this position. Actual salary will vary depending on factors including, but not limited to, budget available, prior experience, knowledge, skill and education as they relate to the position's minimum qualifications, in addition to internal equity. The posted salary range reflects just one component of our total rewards package. Other components of the total rewards package may include participation in group health and/or dental insurance, retirement plan, wellness program, paid time away from work, and paid holidays.

Please note: There may be opportunity for remote work within all jobs posted by the Excellus Talent Acquisition team. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.