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Medical Assistant Externship Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Medical Assistant

Novato, CA · On-site

$26 - $30.42/hr

Completion of an externship program prior to graduation of Medical Assistant program desired. * A minimum of 0-6 months of Medical Assistant work experience post graduating from Medical Assistant ...

Medical Assistant

Novato, CA · On-site

$26 - $30.42/hr

Completion of an externship program prior to graduation of Medical Assistant program desired. * A minimum of 0-6 months of Medical Assistant work experience post graduating from Medical Assistant ...

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Medical Assistant Externship information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$14

$21

$29

How much do medical assistant externship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical assistant externship in Santa Rosa, CA is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $23.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical assistant externship?

A Medical Assistant Externship is a supervised, hands-on training experience that allows students to apply their classroom learning in a real healthcare setting. During the externship, students work alongside experienced medical professionals, performing tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting with patient exams, and handling administrative duties. This experience helps students gain practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for entry-level positions as Medical Assistants. Externships are typically unpaid and are a required component of most medical assistant training programs.

How do medical assistant externships work?

A medical assistant externship is a supervised, hands-on training program that allows students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in healthcare settings. Externs typically work alongside licensed medical assistants and healthcare professionals, performing clinical and administrative tasks while developing skills and earning certifications. The program duration varies, and completion often leads to better job prospects in the medical assisting field.

What are some common challenges faced during a medical assistant externship, and how can I overcome them?

During a Medical Assistant Externship, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment, balancing hands-on tasks with learning new procedures, and building confidence when interacting with patients and healthcare professionals. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate openly with your supervisor or mentor, and proactively seek feedback. Remember that externships are designed for learning, so don't hesitate to ask questions or request clarification when needed—this will help you gain the most from your experience and prepare you for a successful career.

What is the difference between Medical Assistant Externship vs Medical Assistant?

AspectMedical Assistant ExternshipMedical Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires completion of a training program; certification may be optionalRequires completion of a training program; certification (CMA or RMA) often preferred
Work EnvironmentHands-on training in clinical and administrative settings, often supervisedFull-time clinical and administrative duties in healthcare facilities
UsageEducational experience to gain practical skills before employmentProfessional role performing patient care and administrative tasks

The Medical Assistant Externship provides students with practical, supervised experience to prepare for a career as a Medical Assistant. In contrast, a Medical Assistant is a trained professional who performs clinical and administrative duties independently. The externship is a temporary training period, while the Medical Assistant role is a full-time position in healthcare settings.

Do medical assistant externs get paid?

Medical assistant externs are typically unpaid internships that provide hands-on experience and training. However, some externships may offer stipends or hourly pay, depending on the program and organization. It is important to check the specific externship details for compensation information.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical assistant extern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Assistant Extern, you need foundational knowledge of clinical procedures, basic patient care, and administrative tasks, typically gained through a medical assisting program. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, medical terminology, and standard office equipment is frequently required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and professionalism help you excel in supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring effective patient care and a smooth workflow during your externship experience.

How do I get a job as a medical assistant externship with no experience?

To secure a medical assistant externship with no experience, focus on completing a certified training program to gain foundational skills and knowledge. Highlight any relevant coursework, volunteer work, or certifications like CPR on your resume, and demonstrate a strong interest in healthcare during interviews. Some programs may also offer paid or unpaid externship opportunities designed for beginners.
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Medical Assistant Externship jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Medical Assistant Externship job openings:
Infographic showing various Medical Assistant Externship job openings in Santa Rosa, CA 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 $45,231 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

$25.48 - $30.40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Santa Rosa Community Health rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Medical Assistant functions within the care team by assisting the medical provider, serving as a liaison between the patient and the provider, and performing medical receptionist tasks as needed.
Hourly Range: $25.48- $30.40 DOE
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Prepare examination rooms at the beginning and/or end of each day.
  • Prepare patient for examination which may include in-person, electronic or phone contact.
  • Perform patient care procedures and evaluations for which s/he is certified/approved including but not limited to immunization and injections; assisting in minor procedures.
  • Documents all medical information in appropriate fields in EMR; accurately enters immunization information into CAIR registry and EMR.
  • Contact patients to remind them of and confirm appointments.
  • Document and sign all clinical support tasks in the medical chart
  • Check electronic medical record messages and follow up appropriately.
  • Scan documents into electronic medical record.
  • Using computerized electronic medical records performs duties for reception, discharge, scheduling, completing appropriate forms, checking eligibility, and enrolling patients in appropriate insurance and drug assistance programs.
  • May provide health education to patients.
  • Participate in quality assurance activities to monitor and improve patient care quality.
  • Meets customer service standards.
  • Follows all SRCH policies & procedures.
  • Participates in ongoing training.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education:
  • High School diploma or GED preferred.
  • Graduation from a medical assistant program with appropriate certification.
  • Completion of a medical assistant externship required or equivalent Medical Assistant experience.
  • Current CPR certification.
    REQUIRED FOR CERTIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANT (M134):
  • Certified Medical Assistant by State of California through certification examination. Certification must be maintained. Proof of current certification must be provided for personnel records.

Experience:
  • One year medical assistant experience preferred.
  • Experience with electronic medical records preferred.

Knowledge and Skills:
  • Demonstrated proficiency with all tasks on the most current MA competency list.
  • Fluency in English and Spanish (speak, read and write) preferred.
  • Demonstrated computer/keyboard proficiency and Experience with Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint as evaluated by skills testing.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of compliance issues within the community clinic environment.
  • Demonstrates a willingness to report any incident that is unusual or incompatible with accepted clinic procedures.
  • Complies with HIPAA policies.
  • Strong interpersonal skills. Ability to be sensitive with persons of various social, cultural, economic and educational backgrounds.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize projects, work relatively independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to work flexible hours.
  • Good judgment, problem solving and decision-making skills.

SRCH is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
Physical Requirements:
While performing the duties of this job, this position is frequently required to do the following:
  • Use standard office equipment and access, input, and retrieve information from a computer. Use computer keyboard with manual and finger dexterity and wrist-finger speed sufficient to perform repetitive actions efficiently for extended periods of time.
  • Communicate effectively in person or via telephone in a manner which can be understood by those with whom the person is speaking, including a diverse population.
  • Give and follow verbal and written instructions with attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Perform complex mental functions; collect, interpret, and/or analyze complex data and information.
  • Vision: see details of objects at close range.
  • Coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Reach forward, up, down, and to the side
  • Sit or stand for minimum periods of one hour at a time and come and go from the work area repeatedly throughout the day.
  • Lift up to 30 pounds.

SRCH provides reasonable accommodation for individuals with a physical or mental disability to apply for jobs and to perform the essential functions of their jobs unless it would cause an undue hardship.

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