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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding Jobs in California

Medical Coder - RAD-ONC

Walnut Creek, CA · Remote

$20.38 - $36.44/hr

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology, to help millions of people ... Generates coding queries for clarification regarding physician documentation as needed * Stays ...

Medical Coder - RAD-ONC

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$20.38 - $36.44/hr

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology, to help millions of people ... Generates coding queries for clarification regarding physician documentation as needed * Stays ...

Coder/Abstractor Clerk I

Salinas, CA · On-site

$35.02 - $42.15/hr

... HCPCS coding, data abstracting and computer data entry on all inpatient and outpatient medical ... Coder I : Entry level training position. Basic ICD-10/HCPCS knowledge, codes outpatient/ER ...

Coder/Abstractor Clerk I

Salinas, CA · On-site

$35.02 - $42.15/hr

... HCPCS coding, data abstracting and computer data entry on all inpatient and outpatient medical ... Coder I : Entry level training position. Basic ICD-10/HCPCS knowledge, codes outpatient/ER ...

Proven experience as a Dental Assistant in a busy clinic environment (Entry-level candidates with ... Strong grasp of dental anatomy, medical coding for dental records, and HIPAA regulations.

Assembler / Medical device operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Looking for entry-level Operators to help manufacture high-quality medical devices like pacemakers ... Must follow strict cleanroom dress code and hygiene rules * No nail polish, makeup, loose clothing ...

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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding information

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.

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 are entry-level positions at Optum health?

Entry-level positions at Optum health for medical coding include roles such as Medical Coder or Coding Specialist, which typically require basic knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT. These roles often involve reviewing medical records and assigning appropriate codes, with opportunities for certification and on-the-job training.

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.

What is the easiest medical coding job to get?

Entry-level medical coding positions, such as outpatient or physician office coding, are generally the easiest to obtain because they often require minimal experience and certification. These roles typically involve basic coding tasks using common coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and may require a certification such as CPC from the AAPC. Having strong attention to detail and familiarity with medical terminology can improve chances of landing these roles.

Can I get a medical coding job with no experience?

Entry level medical coding positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a certification such as CPC or CCS and a good understanding of medical terminology and coding guidelines. Employers may provide on-the-job training to new coders, making it possible to start without previous work experience in the field.

Will AI eventually replace medical coders?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist medical coders by automating routine coding tasks, but it is unlikely to fully replace entry-level medical coders in the near future. Human oversight remains essential for complex cases, accuracy, and compliance, making coding skills and certifications valuable in the evolving healthcare environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optum Medical Coding jobs in California? The most popular types of Optum Medical Coding jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Medical Coder - RAD-ONC

Medical Coder - RAD-ONC

UnitedHealth Group

Walnut Creek, CA • Remote

$20.38 - $36.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


UnitedHealth Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 882 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.   

You will enjoy the flexibility to telecommute* from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Assigns accurate diagnostic and procedure codes according to clinical documentation and official coding guidelines for outpatient hospital professional accounts
  • Assigns CPT and ICD-10 codes to all RAD-ONC
  • Monitors assigned work queues to ensure all records are charged/coded in a timely matter
  • Generates coding queries for clarification regarding physician documentation as needed
  • Stays abreast of all changes in coding conventions and coding updates
  • Ability to manage significant workload, and to work efficiently under pressure meeting established deadlines with minimal supervision
  • All other duties as assigned

What are the reasons to consider working for UnitedHealth Group?   Put it all together - competitive base pay, a full and comprehensive benefit program, performance rewards, and a management team who demonstrates their commitment to your success. Some of our offerings include:

  • Paid Time Off which you start to accrue with your first pay period plus 8 Paid Holidays
  • Medical Plan options along with participation in a Health Spending Account or a Health Saving account
  • Dental, Vision, Life& AD&D Insurance along with Short-term disability and Long-Term Disability coverage
  • 401(k) Savings Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Employee Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Voluntary Benefits (pet insurance, legal insurance, LTC Insurance, etc.)

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 
  • Professional coder certification with credentialing from AHIMA and/or AAPC (CPC-A, RHIT, RHIA, CCA, CPC, COC, CPC-P, CCS) to be maintained annually
  • 2 years of experience with PCs in a Windows environment, including MS Excel and EMR systems
  • 2 years of experience with ICD-10 and CPT coding with a focus in RAD-ONC

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 2 years of post-certification medical coding experience
  • 2 years of Outpatient Physician coding (Pro-Fee) experience
  • Experience with EMR systems (Epic)

*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 $20.38 to $36.44 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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