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Medical Coder Trainee Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Medical Coder Trainee information

See Madison, WI salary details

$15

$22

$34

How much do medical coder trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical coder trainee in Madison, WI is $22.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Medical Coder Trainee, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems, often supported by a certificate in medical coding or related coursework. Familiarity with ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems, as well as proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) and billing software, is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and the ability to work independently are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure accurate coding, regulatory compliance, and efficient reimbursement processes in healthcare organizations.

What is the difference between Medical Coder Trainee vs Medical Coder?

AspectMedical Coder TraineeMedical Coder
CertificationsTypically none or in progressCertified CPC, CCS, or equivalent
Work ExperienceEntry-level, on-the-job trainingUsually 1+ years of experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised training settingIndependent coding tasks in healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning coding guidelines, shadowingAssigning codes, ensuring accuracy

The main difference between a Medical Coder Trainee and a Medical Coder is experience and certification. Trainees are in training, often without certifications, working under supervision. Medical Coders are experienced professionals with certifications, handling independent coding tasks in healthcare settings.

How to get your first job as a medical coder?

To secure your first medical coder position, complete a recognized coding training program and obtain relevant certifications such as CPC or CCS. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles, along with strong attention to detail and knowledge of coding software, can improve your chances of employment.

What are some common challenges faced by medical coder trainees during their initial months on the job?

Medical Coder Trainees often encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex medical documentation accurately and familiarizing themselves with various coding systems like ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS. Adjusting to productivity and accuracy standards while balancing the pressure of meeting deadlines can also be demanding. Additionally, trainees may need to develop effective communication skills to collaborate with healthcare providers and clarify documentation ambiguities. Supportive mentorship and consistent practice are key to overcoming these initial hurdles.

Can I get a medical coder trainee job with no experience?

Medical coder trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as they are designed for individuals new to the field. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and completing a coding training program or certification can improve job prospects. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with coding software and medical terminology is beneficial.

How to become a medical coder trainee?

To become a medical coder trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a medical coding training program or course. Gaining knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and passing certification exams such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) can improve job prospects. Some employers may also offer on-the-job training for entry-level trainees.

What is a medical coder trainee?

Medical Coder Trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning how to convert healthcare diagnoses, procedures, medical services, and equipment into standardized codes. They work under the supervision of experienced medical coders or billing professionals as they gain practical experience and knowledge. Their primary role is to ensure accurate and efficient coding for billing and insurance purposes, following current coding guidelines and healthcare regulations. Trainees often participate in on-the-job training, educational courses, and may prepare for certification exams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Madison, WI are:
Infographic showing various Medical Coder Trainee job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,994 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Clinical Operations Administrative Manager

Wisconsin

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:Academic StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Administrative ManagerJob Summary:

The Department of Pediatrics is seeking an Administrative Manager to support the evolving needs and priorities of the clinical enterprise and supporting operations within the department and sub-specialty divisions. This position will take direction from the Associate Department Administrator of Clinical Operations and will work closely with departmental and UW Health leadership in clinical operations, regional development, coding and revenue areas, and enterprise analytics. Work will include management and execution of strategic projects/priority work, alignment of communication and planning efforts, development of reporting and operational data infrastructure to support workforce evaluation, and overall efficiency and optimization of clinical operations work in the department and specific divisions.

  • This position may require some work to be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location. Some work may be performed remotely, at an offsite, non-campus work location.

Candidates who demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities will be given first consideration.

  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other database/reporting systems

  • Ability to communicate clearly, effectively, and respectively in partnering with others to successfully move work forward

  • Ability to work independently and exercise increasingly independent judgement and resources in analyzing and understanding work and solving problems

  • Skill in analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems

  • Strong skills in developing goals, organizing, prioritizing, and communicating in order to to manage multiple tasks/priorities

  • Past experience in managing programs and/or leadership roles that required autonomy and decision making

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • May exercise supervisory authority, including hiring, transferring, suspending, promoting, managing conduct and performance, discharging, assigning, rewarding, disciplining, and/or approving hours worked of at least 2.0 FTE or equivalent employees
  • Identifies workflow needs, contributes to the development of strategic and operational solutions, allocates resources, and implements new or revised unit operational policies and procedures
  • Lead development and maintenance of systems, reporting and dashboards to support clinical productivity and operational needs in collaboration with department, school, institutional colleagues
  • Contributes to the preparation of proposals for funding and/or funding continuation from outside sponsors
  • Schedules logistics and secures resources for program activities across multiple work units to ensure optimum efficiency and compliance with appropriate policies, procedures, and specifications
  • Leads the development and preparation of periodic reports and financial statements, and records progress, status, or other special reports for leadership or external agencies
  • Plans, implements, executes, and evaluates existing strategies and objectives for a program and makes recommendations to unit leadership for program or function enhancement
  • May assist in the development and monitoring of the unit or program budget and approve unit expenditures
Department:

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Clinical Operations

The Department of Pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health is a vibrant academic department comprising more than 230 faculty members in 16 subspecialty divisions. The department promotes and enhances the health of children through outstanding clinical care, exemplary education of pediatric trainees, performance of cutting-edge research, and vigorous advocacy. Our faculty and research staff enjoy a robust infrastructure of services as well as the opportunity to contribute to our world-class research portfolio - since 2015 the department has ranked among the Top 20 pediatrics departments receiving NIH funding, according to Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research. To provide remarkable health care for everyone in our community, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in all aspects of our work. To learn more about the department's work and accomplishments, please visit: https://www.pediatrics.wisc.edu/.

Compensation:

The starting salary for the position is $70,000 annually; but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.

  • SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum 4 years of administrative experience in roles with increasing responsibility and authority

  • Coursework and/or experience with project management

  • Proficiency/advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in an administrative leadership role

  • Experience within a clinical operations environment

  • Experience in UW Health Qlik View, Qlik Sense, and Health Link reporting

  • Project management certification and/or demonstrated experience leading projects

Education:
  • Bachelor's Degree preferred; focus in business, management or related field preferred

How to Apply:

For the best experience completing your application, we recommend using Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.

To apply for this position, select either "I am a current employee" or "I am not a current employee" under Apply Now. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials.Important: The application has only one attachment field. Upload the following documents in that field, either as a single combined file or as multiple files in the same upload area.
Cover letter required
Resume

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience aligns with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected.

University sponsorship is not available for this position, including transfers of sponsorship and TN visas.The selected applicant will be responsible for ensuring their continuous eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.This position is an ongoing position that will require continuous work eligibility.If you are selected for this position you must provide proof of work authorization and eligibility to work.

The department will not be able to support a request for a J-1 waiver. If you choose to pursue a waiver and apply for our position, neither the UW nor UWMF will reimburse you for your legal or waiver fees.

Contact Information:

Hope Jende, hope.jende@wisc.edu, 608-262-0149

Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.

Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.