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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding Jobs in Albuquerque, NM

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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

$27.1K

$43.7K

$56.7K

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level optum medical coding in Albuquerque, NM is $43,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,300.00 and $47,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level Optum medical coder?

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Optum Medical Coding jobs in Albuquerque, NM?

The most popular types of Optum Medical Coding jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs in Albuquerque, NM?

For Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs in Albuquerque, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

What cities near Albuquerque, NM are hiring for Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs?

Cities near Albuquerque, NM with the most Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings:

Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 73% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,661 per year, or $21 per hour.

Medical Assistant I

First Choice Community Healthcare INC

Los Lunas, NM • On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description

Job Title: Medical Assistant I

Position Code: C04N Non-Exempt

Department: Health Center Operations

Position Category (330): Other Medical Personnel (L12)

Position Category (RPHCA): Other Clinical Staff

Union Exempt: No


The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. 


Position Summary


Under the supervision of the Nurse Flow Manager within the Health Center, the Medical Assistant I functions at the entry level of a Medical Assistant in clinical and clerical support as part of a patient care team of providers and nurses who provide direct patient care at the health centers. By the end of the first 6 months, with training provided, the Medical Assistant I should have mastered essential duties defined below and be ready to advance to a Medical Assistant II.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities  

  • As a member of a patient care team, the Medical Assistant assists in the preparation of the patient visit by: Administrative 
  • Uses the practice management program to register, schedule and verify appointments, as needed.
  • Reviews the next day's schedule and prepares for patient visit.
  • Verifies patient insurance.
  • Explains fee schedules and collects any required co-payment.
  • Receives and greets patients and visitors.
  • Calls and assists patients into examination rooms.
  • Collects any lab results, outside records and needed paperwork for the visit.
  • Prints labels.
  • Prepares encounter forms and charting notes.
  • Schedules referral appointments.
  • Demonstrates effective communication and written skills.
  • Mails out results.
  • Clinical
  • Interviews patients and records information to document patient reason for visit and any health problems.
  • Obtains patient's medical history differentiating between subjective and objective information.
  • Obtains patients vital signs and report abnormal readings to the provider.
  • Follow universal precautions in accordance with FCCH policies and procedures.
  • Completely fills out lab requisitions and labels all specimens for in-house and "send out" labs.
  • Maintain confidentiality of patient information in accordance with HIPAA.
  • Assists provider with exams and procedures.
  • Perform visual exams using eye chart.
  • Perform EKG's.
  • Prepare exam rooms for any expected procedures.
  • Clean and sanitize exam rooms after each visit and as needed.
  • Clean, wrap, and label instruments for autoclave.
  • Maintain exam rooms with medical forms and supplies.
  • May serve as an interpreter as appropriate.
  • Explain discharge plans to patient.
  • Administration of medication through inhalation, ears, eyes, orally and by injection after required trainings have been completed and having been observed and signed off by a provider or licensed health professional.
  • Performs subcutaneous and intramuscular immunizations after completion of an immunization/injection class and been observed and signed off by a provider or licensed health professional.
  • Performs in-house test such as strep, BGL, hematocrit (HCT), chemstrip UA, HCG, hemoglobin A1C's and urine drug screens.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • High School graduate or GED certificate and 
  • Graduation from a technical school as a Medical Assistant or equivalent. 
  • Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) is preferred.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED

  • CPR Certification must be obtained within first 6 months of hire and maintained.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

  • Patient interviewing techniques
  • Basic medical terminology
  • Vital signs/ abnormal values 
  • Patient charting
  • Exam room maintenance
  • Provider orders
  • Instillation of drops and ointments in the eye or ear.
  • Oral medications
  • Communication skills
  • Basic lab
  • EKG
  • OSHA guidelines, blood borne pathogens and universal precautions.
  • Various positions and methods used for different exams
  • Eye exams
  • Introduction to autoclave
  • Basic Insurance, coding and Billing terminology
  • Various instrument parts (i.e., handles, locks, teeth, serrations) and classifications
  •  Instruments used for various types of examinations
  • The procedures for the care and sterilization of non-disposable instruments and the care and the disposal procedures for disposable instruments
  • Procedures for performing subcutaneous, intradermal, and intramuscular injections
  • Procedure for obtaining a drug from a vial or ampoules
  • Needle sizes and syringe type necessary for injection type
  • Categories, forms, and uses of drugs
  • Procedures for obtaining sterile, clean catch, timed, and drug screening specimens
  • Procedures for performing urinalysis, including physical characteristics, chemical (dipstick), and microscope preparation
  • ECG procedure for patient preparation, lead placement and obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram
  • TJC and related accreditation and certification
  • Knowledge and familiarity with compliance program. Cooperate fully and comply with laws and regulations.

Ability to:

  • Obtain a blood pressure and knowledge of cuff sizes and recognition of normal and abnormal readings.
  • Take a pulse; recognize normal and abnormal readings, and knowledge of various locations that can be used.
  • Obtain a respiratory rate and the knowledge of normal and abnormal readings.
  • Obtain height and weight information to include pediatric/adult.
  • Obtain temperatures via oral, rectal and axillary methods.
  • Obtain throat culture swab.
  • Communicate effectively with patients and their families to make their visit a pleasant experience.
  • Use a multi-line telephone system.
  •  Use a computer to enter and access patient data to complete a discharge plan.
  • Work on multiple tasks within established deadlines. Ability to work under the direction of a provider and follow instructions for work completion.
  •  Take the initiative to resolve patient concerns and problems.
  •  Work well with diverse groups of people.
  •  Work well as a team member.
  •  Maintain confidentiality of records and information.
  •  Follow routine verbal or written instructions.

Age of Patients Served

  • Geriatric, Adult, Adolescent, Pediatric and Newborn

Working Conditions


A person in this position has sufficient time to complete most tasks although under pressure depending on patient and organization demands. There are frequent opportunities to relax from any physical exertion or to change position in work activities.

  • Physical Effort and Dexterity: Good dexterity to operate personal computer, and basic medical and laboratory equipment. Occasional lifting and carrying related to clinic duties. 
  • Machines, Tools, Equipment required to be operated: Capable of using medical equipment, office machines and personal computers for word processing, data entry and retrieval.    
  • Visual Acuity, Hearing, and Speaking: Must be able to read computer monitor output and results of basic medical tests accurately. Must be able to communicate clearly and accurately for work and safety compliance.
  • Environment/Working Conditions: Work is mostly inside a clinic in a controlled environment. Normal clinic and safety precautions and practices are required. Position may require travel throughout the Albuquerque metropolitan area. Work regularly scheduled Monday-Friday, although weekends may be required to meet deadlines.     

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