2

Entry Level Optum Medical Coding Jobs in California

Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to include the Code of Ethics and ... This is an entry level position requiring 0-3 years experience as a medical assistant or nursing ...

FULL Time, Entry Level - GREAT way to get hands on experience! Plenty of opportunities for growth ... High School Diploma or equivalent required. 1 - 3 years' experience of medical coding, medical ...

Medical Assistant

Antioch, CA · On-site

$25 - $29.50/hr

Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to include the Code of Ethics and ... This is an entry level position requiring 0-3 years experience as a medical assistant or nursing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Optum Medical Coding information

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.
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:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Medical Assistant

$25 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


US Oncology rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

HOURLY RATE (DEPENDING ON SKILLS/EXPERIENCE): $25.00 - $29.50

SCOPE: Under direct supervision, assists our physicians and clinicians with patient care duties in a clinical environment. Promotes efficient patient flow and patient care, i.e. exams, and procedures. Performs clinic support tasks including miscellaneous clerical tasks, answering phones, and maintaining physicians schedule. Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to include the Code of Ethics and Business Standards.


Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Escorts patients to and from exam rooms, physician offices, and treatment room as appropriate. Records patient data prior to each physician visit, including but not limited to, vital signs, height, weight, allergies, and medication changes. Obtains all necessary patient records as required by physician prior to treatment or procedures. Prepares and stocks exam/treatment rooms and orders supplies as needed. Assists physicians with exams and procedures as requested. Administers subcutaneous and intramuscular injections, as delegated by RN or physician. Maintains all exam/treatment room disinfection protocols. Answers patient telephone calls for referral to physician or nurse/pharmacist. Phones in prescriptions and makes other patient calls as directed by physicians and RN. Informs physician of patient reschedules and no shows. Performs other administrative duties, i.e. typing, filing faxing, chart preparation, reception, etc, as requested by supervisor or physician.


Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school graduate or equivalent.
  • Certificate of graduation from an accredited program for Medical Assistants required.
  • This is an entry level position requiring 0-3 years experience as a medical assistant or nursing assistant.
  • Current BCLS certification required within 3 months of hire.
  • Certified Medical Assistant preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Requires full range of body motion including handling and lifting patients, manual and finger dexterity, and eye-hand coordination. Requires standing and walking for extensive periods of time. Occasionally lifts and carries items weighing up to 40 lbs. Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, ionizing radiation, medical preparations and other conditions common to an oncology/hematology clinic environment may occur.

Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school graduate or equivalent.
  • Certificate of graduation from an accredited program for Medical Assistants required.
  • This is an entry level position requiring 0-3 years experience as a medical assistant or nursing assistant.
  • Current BCLS certification required within 3 months of hire.
  • Certified Medical Assistant preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Requires full range of body motion including handling and lifting patients, manual and finger dexterity, and eye-hand coordination. Requires standing and walking for extensive periods of time. Occasionally lifts and carries items weighing up to 40 lbs. Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, ionizing radiation, medical preparations and other conditions common to an oncology/hematology clinic environment may occur.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What US Oncology employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom