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Hospital Coding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coder III

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$37.92 - $60.68/hr

AHIMA approved coding program or equivalent with documentation of successful completion. Experience: * Acute hospital experience in an acute care hospital, with three years of inpatient and ...

$19 - $25.25/hr

Acute hospital experience in an acute care hospital, with three years of inpatient and outpatient coding experience utilizing automated encoder. Employment Type: Full Time

Security Officer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$24.77 - $29.03/hr

Knowledge of emergency procedures, equipment, and supplies, including of radios and hospital codes. * Reports HIPAA breaches if witnessed; investigate security breaches, conducts investigations, and ...

Security Officer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$24.77 - $29.03/hr

Knowledge of emergency procedures, equipment, and supplies, including of radios and hospital codes. * Reports HIPAA breaches if witnessed; investigate security breaches, conducts investigations, and ...

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Hospital Coding information

See California salary details

$27

$34

$40

How much do hospital coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for hospital coding in California is $34.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.91 and $37.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is hospital coding?

Hospital coding is the process of translating medical diagnoses, procedures, and services provided during a patient's stay at a hospital into standardized codes. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and maintaining accurate patient records. Hospital coders use classification systems such as ICD-10-CM for diagnoses and CPT/HCPCS for procedures to ensure consistency and compliance with healthcare regulations. Accurate coding is essential for hospitals to receive proper reimbursement and for maintaining quality healthcare data.

Do hospitals hire medical coders?

Yes, hospitals frequently hire medical coders to review clinical documentation and assign accurate codes for billing and reimbursement. Medical coders typically need certification and familiarity with coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and they often work in a healthcare setting with standard office hours.

What is the difference between Hospital Coding vs Medical Billing?

AspectHospital CodingMedical Billing
Primary RoleAssigns medical codes to diagnoses and procedures for billing and record-keepingProcesses insurance claims and manages billing for healthcare services
CredentialsCertified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)Certified Professional Biller (CPB), Certified Coding Associate (CCA)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilitiesMedical offices, billing companies, healthcare providers
Industry UsageUsed for accurate medical record documentation and reimbursementUsed for insurance claims submission and payment collection

Hospital Coding focuses on translating medical diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes, essential for billing and record accuracy. Medical Billing involves submitting claims and managing payments. While related, they are distinct roles within healthcare revenue cycle management, often working together but requiring different skills and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hospital Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hospital Coder, you need thorough knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and ICD-10-CM/PCS or CPT coding systems, often supported by certification such as CCS or CPC. Proficiency with hospital information systems and electronic health records (EHR) software is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for accurately translating clinical documentation and collaborating with healthcare professionals. These skills ensure proper billing, regulatory compliance, and optimized hospital reimbursement.

What does a coder do in a hospital?

A hospital coder reviews medical records to assign standardized codes for diagnoses, procedures, and treatments using coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT. These codes ensure accurate billing, insurance claims processing, and healthcare data analysis, often requiring attention to detail and familiarity with medical terminology and coding software.

What is the highest paid medical coder?

The highest paid medical coders are often those with senior roles such as Coding Managers or Certified Professional Coders (CPC) with specialized expertise in areas like inpatient hospital coding or surgical coding. Salaries can exceed $70,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, certifications, and advanced skills in coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT. Factors such as location, certification, and years of experience influence earning potential in hospital coding roles.

Can I get a medical coder job with no experience?

Hospital coding positions often require some knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and attention to detail. While entry-level roles may be available, obtaining certification such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) can improve job prospects for those with no prior experience.

What are some common challenges hospital coders face when working with complex patient records?

Hospital coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting incomplete or ambiguous physician documentation and ensuring accurate code assignment for complex cases with multiple diagnoses or procedures. Navigating frequent updates to coding standards (like ICD-10 and CPT) and staying compliant with regulatory requirements can also be demanding. Effective communication with clinical staff and attention to detail are essential to ensure coding accuracy, which directly impacts hospital reimbursement and compliance.
What job categories do people searching Hospital Coding jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hospital Coding jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Hospital Coding jobs? Cities in California with the most Hospital Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Hospital Coding job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 52% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 36% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,392 per year, or $34.3 per hour.
Coder III

$37.92 - $60.68/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

479th of 1,002 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Brief
1 Opening
Pay Range: CODER III - $37.92 to $60.68
Job Summary Coder III
The Coder III is responsible for analyzing medical records for completion by Medical Staff, clinical or ancillary department; performing coding and abstracting functions; efficiently navigate the electronic medical record to find patient information required for coding; and accurately abstract medical records for quality assessment screens.
Licensure and Certification:
  • CCS required
  • RHIT or RHIA strongly preferred

Education:
  • Associate Degree in Health Information Technology or Information Technology or equivalent is minimum requirement
  • Medical Terminology
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • AHIMA approved coding program or equivalent with documentation of successful completion.

Experience:
  • Acute hospital experience in an acute care hospital, with three years of inpatient and outpatient coding experience utilizing automated encoder.

Knowledge and Skills:
  • Extensive knowledge of ICD-9-CM and CPT
  • Understanding of UHDDS
  • Computerized medical records coding and abstracting experience - at least one year.
  • Experience analyzing and manipulating data from medical records coding and abstracts. Knowledge of APCs, E&M coding, Modifier usage.
  • Ability to utilize encoder at advanced level
  • Ability to utilize computer to maintain current status of coding process
  • Ability to code advanced level inpatient, outpatient and Emergency Department records