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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Medical Coder

Eden Prairie, MN · Remote

$20 - $36/hr

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people ... Apply understanding of relevant medical coding subject areas (e.g., diagnosis, procedural ...

Medical Coder

Eden Prairie, MN · On-site

$20 - $36/hr

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people ... Apply understanding of relevant medical coding subject areas (e.g., diagnosis, procedural ...

Prepay Coding Consultant

Plymouth, MN · Remote

$23.89 - $42.69/hr

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people ... Apply understanding of relevant medical coding subject areas (e.g., diagnosis, procedural ...

Prepay Coding Consultant

Plymouth, MN · Remote

$23.89 - $42.69/hr

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people ... Apply understanding of relevant medical coding subject areas (e.g., diagnosis, procedural ...

Prepay Coding Consultant

Plymouth, MN · Remote

$23.89 - $42.69/hr

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people ... Apply understanding of relevant medical coding subject areas (e.g., diagnosis, procedural ...

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people ... Apply understanding of relevant medical coding subject areas (e.g., diagnosis, procedural ...

Fulfilling all medical note review requests (OPTUM, BCBS, etc.) * Providing educational materials and coding accuracy to clinicians * Analyzing billing company reports Qualifications / Skills

Physician Coder (FT)

Victoria, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Completion of an approved medical coding program; entry level knowledge of medical coding. Preferred: Associates degree in a healthcare related field; Knowledge of pathophysiology and basic ...

Utilize coding tools such as Optum Encoder and CMS guidelines. * Code with an accuracy of 95% or ... Minimum three years medical coding experience required. * Proficiency with computer systems and ...

Medical Coder

Hinsdale, IL

$18.75 - $25/hr

... resolve Optum coding edits. Responsibilities: * Utilizes technical coding expertise to review the medical record thoroughly, utilizing all available documentation to abstract and code physician ...

Medical Coder

Hinsdale, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

... resolve Optum coding edits. Responsibilities: * Utilizes technical coding expertise to review the medical record thoroughly, utilizing all available documentation to abstract and code physician ...

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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding information

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$28K

$45K

$58.5K

How much do entry level optum medical coding jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level optum medical coding in the United States is $45,043.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $48,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does Optum pay well?

Entry level medical coding positions at Optum typically offer competitive starting salaries aligned with industry standards. Compensation can vary based on location, experience, and certifications such as CPC or CCS, but generally, medical coders earn a moderate to good wage for entry-level roles in healthcare billing and coding.

What is the difference between Entry Level Optum Medical Coding vs Medical Billing Specialist?

AspectEntry Level Optum Medical CodingMedical Billing Specialist
CertificationsCPMA, CPC, or CCS certifications often preferredGenerally requires billing and coding certifications, but less specialized
Work EnvironmentHealthcare facilities, insurance companies, remote optionsMedical offices, billing companies, remote work
Job FocusAssigning medical codes for diagnoses and proceduresProcessing billing, submitting claims, managing payments

Entry Level Optum Medical Coding primarily involves assigning accurate medical codes based on patient records, while Medical Billing Specialists focus on processing claims and managing billing processes. Both roles require certifications and often share work environments, but their core responsibilities differ, with coding emphasizing classification and billing emphasizing financial transactions.

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

Entry-level Optum medical coders often encounter challenges such as learning complex coding systems (like ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS), adapting to frequent regulatory changes, and maintaining accuracy under productivity targets. New coders may also find it difficult to interpret clinical documentation and communicate effectively with providers to resolve discrepancies. To overcome these challenges, it is helpful to utilize training resources, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and regularly participate in team meetings and continuing education sessions provided by Optum.

How can I get a medical coding job with no experience?

Entry-level medical coding jobs often require a certification such as CPC or CCS, which can be obtained through training programs or online courses. Gaining familiarity with coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and completing internships or volunteer work, can improve your chances of securing a position without prior experience.

What is an Entry Level Optum Medical Coder?

An Entry Level Optum Medical Coder is a professional who reviews clinical documentation and assigns standardized medical codes for diagnoses, procedures, and services provided by healthcare providers working with Optum, a health services and innovation company. These codes are essential for billing, insurance claims, and maintaining accurate patient records. Entry-level coders typically work under supervision and may be responsible for various specialties depending on the team's needs. They must have a good understanding of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and compliance regulations. Proper training and certification, such as from AAPC or AHIMA, are often required or preferred for this role.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For entry-level medical coding roles, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher salaries than Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is often required for hospital coding and is considered more advanced. However, salaries can vary based on location, experience, and employer, with CCS-certified coders typically earning a premium due to the complexity of hospital coding environments. Both certifications are valuable, but CCS tends to offer higher pay for similar roles in medical coding.

Are medical coders going to be replaced by AI?

Medical coders, including entry-level roles, are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future because coding requires understanding complex medical documentation and applying nuanced judgment. AI tools are increasingly used to assist coders by automating routine tasks, but human oversight remains essential for accuracy and compliance. Developing coding skills and certifications can help adapt to evolving technology in the field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Optum Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and ICD-10/CPT coding systems, typically supported by a coding certification such as CPC or CCS. Familiarity with health information management (HIM) software, electronic health records (EHRs), and Optum's proprietary coding platforms is often essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help coders ensure accuracy and compliance. These competencies are crucial for maintaining data integrity, supporting proper reimbursement, and minimizing billing errors in healthcare organizations.
More about Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optum Medical Coding jobs? The most popular types of Optum Medical Coding jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,043 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Medical Coder

Medical Coder

UnitedHealth Group

Eden Prairie, MN • Remote

$20 - $36/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


UnitedHealth Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

187th of 874 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.   

The Medical Coder performs concurrent review of FFS coding rules within Epic, ensuring all CPT and E/M codes are accurately coded and billed for maximum reimbursement and minimal denials.

Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM

Location: Remote Nationwide

You'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely * from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges.

Primary Responsibilities: 

  • Apply understanding of relevant medical coding subject areas (e.g., diagnosis, procedural, evaluation and management, ancillary services) to assign appropriate medical codes
  • Apply understanding of basic anatomy and physiology to interpret clinical documentation and identify applicable medical codes
  • Identify areas in clinical documentation that are unclear or incomplete and generate queries to obtain additional information
  • Follow up with providers as necessary when responses to queries are not provided on a timely basis
  • Utilize medical coding software programs or reference materials to identify appropriate codes
  • Apply post-query response to make final determinations
  • Apply relevant Medical Coding Reference, Federal, State, and Professional guidelines to assign and record independent medical code determinations
  • Manage multiple work demands simultaneously to maintain relevant productivity and turnaround time standards for completing medical records (e.g., charts, assessments, visits, encounters)
  • Resolve medical coding edits or denials in relation to code assignment
  • Provide information or respond to questions from medical coding quality audits
  • Educate and mentor others to improve medical coding quality
  • Demonstrate basic knowledge of the impact of coding decisions on revenue cycle
  • Other duties as assigned

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear directions on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Coding certification from AAPC or AHIMA Professional Coding Association: (CPC, CPC-H, CPC-P, RHIT, RHIA, CCA, CCS, CCS-P etc.)
  • 2 years of Pro-Fee (fee for service) coding experience
  • 1 years of family practice experience 
  • Advanced level of knowledge of ICD-10-CM, CPT, Modifiers & HCPCS coding classification and guidelines
  • Advanced level of knowledge of medical terminology, disease process and Anatomy and Physiology

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Epic experience
  • 1 years of revenue cycle experience

*All Telecommuters will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy.

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $20 - $36 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. 

Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants. 

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location, and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups, and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

#RPO #GREEN


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