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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding Jobs in Houston, TX

Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

Galveston, TX · Remote

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

... the medical record. * Utilizes the encoder and/or Optum software to correctly assign all appropriate ICD-10-CM, ICD10-PCS and CPT codes for diagnosis and procedures. * Sequences diagnoses and ...

Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

Galveston, TX · Remote

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

... the medical record. * Utilizes the encoder and/or Optum software to correctly assign all appropriate ICD-10-CM, ICD10-PCS and CPT codes for diagnosis and procedures. * Sequences diagnoses and ...

Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

Galveston, TX · On-site +1

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

... the medical record. * Utilizes the encoder and/or Optum software to correctly assign all appropriate ICD-10-CM, ICD10-PCS and CPT codes for diagnosis and procedures. * Sequences diagnoses and ...

Medical Biller & Coder (Remote)

Houston, TX · Remote

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Medical billing or coding certification is a plus (CPC, CBCS, etc.) Entry-Level Applicants Welcome We encourage applications from individuals who are: * Career changers with strong administrative or ...

Medical Biller & Coder

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$18 - $23/hr

Medical billing or coding certification is a plus (CPC, CBCS, etc.) Entry-Level Applicants Welcome We encourage applications from individuals who are: * Career changers with strong administrative or ...

Professional Coder I-Rev Cycle

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Resolve Epic Coding and Optum Claims Manager edits. * Responsible for reviewing encounters in the coding work queue in a timely manner and resolving all coding related edits. * Reviews medical record ...

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Entry Level Optum Medical Coding information

See Houston, TX salary details

$26.7K

$43K

$55.9K

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level optum medical coding in Houston, TX is $43,015.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,800.00 and $46,300.00 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 Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Optum Medical Coding jobs in Houston, TX are:

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

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

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Entry Level Optum Medical Coding jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Optum Medical Coding job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,015 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

UTMB Health

Galveston, TX • Remote

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


UTMB Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 168 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Two years of medical billing or related experience, or related training from a non-accredited program or accredited agency.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Outpatient women's and pediatric coding experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of coding guidelines, anatomy and physiology, biology and microbiology, medical terminology and medical abbreviations.

REQUIRED LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, OR CERTIFICATIONS:

One of the following:

  • CCA - Certified Coding Associate (AHIMA) or
  • CCS - Certified Coding Specialist (AHIMA) or
  • CCS-P - Certified Coding Specialist - Physician Based (AHIMA) or
  • RHIA - Registered Health Information Administrator (AHIMA) or
  • RHIT - Registered Health Information Technician (AHIMA)
  • CIC - Certified Inpatient Coder (AAPC) or
  • COC - Certified Outpatient Coder (AAPC) or
  • CPC - Certified Professional Coder (AAPC) or
  • CPC-A - Certified Professional Coder - Apprentice (AAPC) or
  • CRC - Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (AAPC)

JOB SUMMARY:

Properly codes and/or audits professional services for Inpatient and/or professional and hospital outpatient technical services for multiple specialty areas to ensure accuracy and optimal reimbursement from all third-party payers.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Reviews documentation in EPIC and/or on paper as provided to appropriately assign ICD-10-CM, PCS and CPT codes.
  • Communicates with and provides feedback to the education team and/or provider for query opportunities for documentation clarification or missing elements in the medical record.
  • Utilizes the encoder and/or Optum software to correctly assign all appropriate ICD-10-CM, ICD10-PCS and CPT codes for diagnosis and procedures.
  • Sequences diagnoses and procedures to generate clean claims in accordance with the Coding Guidelines based on the type of coding being reviewed.
  • Verifies all ADT information is correct on all charge sessions; date of service, billing provider, service provider, place of service, referral information and claim form if required.
  • Attends and participates in coding education sessions.
  • Obtains required CEU's for certification and completes any required education.
  • Works coding related charge reviews/claim edits daily to ensure timely and accurate billing within filing deadlines.
  • The coder is responsible for productivity and quality standards to adhere with coding compliance and federal regulations.
  • Work all PB/HB claim edits and reject errors daily.
  • Hospital DNB's will be worked as assigned per Specialty.
  • Work charge reconciliation to ensure all services provided are captured for coding in a timely manner.
  • Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure.

Marginal or Periodic Functions:

  • Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

  • Strong written and oral communication skills.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/EQUIPMENT:

  • Standard office environment at UTMB's main campus or other location.
  • Occasional travel may be required.
  • Standard office equipment

SALARY RANGE:

Actual salary commensurate with experience.

WORK SCHEDULE:

Remote, Monday through Friday, Full-Time Position.

Equal Employment Opportunity

UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. As a Federal Contractor, UTMB Health takes affirmative action to hire and advance protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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