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Optum Coding Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

Galveston, TX · Remote

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

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 ...

Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

Galveston, TX · On-site +1

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

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 ...

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Optum Coding information

See Houston, TX salary details

$10

$26

$69

How much do optum coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for optum coding in Houston, TX is $26.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.31 and $29.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Optum Coding position, and why are they important?

To thrive in an Optum Coding role, you need a strong understanding of medical coding systems (such as ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS), healthcare regulations, and often a certification like CPC or CCS. Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR), coding software, and claims processing platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication are valuable soft skills for success in this position. These abilities help ensure accuracy in coding, regulatory compliance, and timely submission of claims within a large healthcare organization like Optum.

Are medical coders still in demand?

Medical coders, including those working in roles like Optum Coding, are in steady demand due to ongoing healthcare industry needs for accurate billing and record-keeping. The profession requires knowledge of coding systems such as ICD-10 and CPT, and certifications can enhance job prospects as healthcare organizations continue to prioritize compliance and efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by Optum Coding professionals, and how can they be addressed?

One of the common challenges in Optum Coding roles is staying current with frequent updates to coding standards and healthcare regulations, which requires ongoing education and adaptability. Additionally, coders must often decipher complex medical records and ensure precise, compliant coding to minimize claim denials or delays. These professionals work closely with healthcare providers and other team members to clarify documentation and maintain coding accuracy. Optum offers internal training, regular updates, and collaboration with other departments to help coders overcome these challenges and succeed in a dynamic healthcare environment.

What Medical Coder gets paid the most?

Senior or Certified Medical Coders, such as Certified Professional Coders (CPC) or Certified Coding Specialists (CCS), tend to earn the highest salaries in medical coding roles. Experience, specialization in areas like inpatient or outpatient coding, and working in larger healthcare organizations or hospitals can also increase earning potential.

What is an Optum Coding job?

An Optum Coding job involves reviewing medical records and assigning standardized codes for diagnoses, procedures, and treatments to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement. Coders must follow industry guidelines such as ICD, CPT, and HCPCS while ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. These roles are critical in maintaining proper documentation and supporting healthcare providers in optimizing revenue cycle management. Optum coders may work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and remote positions. Certification such as CPC or CCS is often required for these roles.

What is an Optum HCC coder job description?

An Optum HCC coder is responsible for reviewing and accurately coding patient medical records using Hierarchical Condition Category (HCC) models to ensure proper risk adjustment and reimbursement. They typically analyze clinical documentation, assign appropriate codes, and may use coding software, requiring knowledge of medical terminology, coding guidelines, and relevant certifications such as CPC or CCS. The role often involves remote work and adherence to compliance standards within healthcare coding environments.

Will a Medical Coder be replaced by AI?

Medical coders, including those working for companies like Optum, perform complex tasks that require understanding medical records and applying coding standards. While AI and automation tools are increasingly used to assist with routine coding, human oversight remains essential to ensure accuracy and handle complex cases, so complete replacement is unlikely in the near term.
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Optum Coding jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Optum Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Optum Coding job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,084 per year, or $27 per hour.
Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

Coder - RCO Coding (Remote)

UTMB Health

Galveston, TX • Remote

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


UTMB Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 168 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 890 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:

  • Experience with Outpatient E/M level coding 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 Position, Monday through Friday, 8-hour shifts with availability between 6 AM - 6 PM.

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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