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Optum Prior Authorization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Full Stack Java Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$54.75 - $70.75/hr

... Prior Authorization, Care Management, or Optum Clinical Manager is preferred. • AI tool proficiency is expected, including consistent use of enterprise-approved AI tools such as GitHub Copilot ...

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How much do optum prior authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for optum prior authorization in the United States is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Optum Prior Authorization specialist?

As an Optum Prior Authorization specialist, your daily tasks include reviewing and processing prior authorization requests for various medical services, verifying insurance coverage, and ensuring all required clinical documentation is complete. You will regularly communicate with healthcare providers, insurance representatives, and patients to clarify requests and resolve any questions. Attention to compliance with health plan guidelines and accurate data entry are vital. The role is fast-paced and highly collaborative, providing opportunities to develop expertise in healthcare administration while supporting the delivery of timely patient care.

What is an Optum Prior Authorization job?

An Optum Prior Authorization job involves reviewing and processing requests from healthcare providers to ensure that medical treatments, procedures, or medications meet insurance coverage guidelines. Employees in this role assess clinical documentation, verify patient eligibility, and communicate approval or denial decisions based on established criteria. The job requires attention to detail, knowledge of medical terminology, and compliance with healthcare regulations. It may also involve interacting with providers or patients to clarify authorization requirements.

Does Optum do prior authorization?

Optum handles prior authorization processes for healthcare providers and insurance plans, requiring review of medical necessity before approving certain services or medications. Employees in related roles may use electronic health record systems and adhere to specific guidelines to facilitate this process.

Is prior authorization a stressful job?

Optum Prior Authorization roles can be stressful due to the need to review complex medical documentation and meet strict deadlines. The job requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle high volumes of cases, which can contribute to work-related stress.

Is it hard to get hired by Optum?

Optum Prior Authorization roles can be competitive, often requiring relevant healthcare experience, strong communication skills, and familiarity with medical policies. The hiring process typically involves multiple interview stages and background checks, but candidates with relevant qualifications and certifications may have a better chance of success.

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

To thrive as an Optum Prior Authorization specialist, you need knowledge of medical terminology, health insurance processes, and prior authorization procedures, often supported by a background in healthcare administration or related fields. Familiarity with claims management software, electronic health records (EHRs), and payer-specific authorization platforms is essential. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities help you excel in interacting with providers, insurers, and patients. These skills ensure timely, accurate processing of authorizations, reducing delays in patient care and fostering positive relationships with healthcare partners.

Is Optum laying off employees?

There are no publicly available reports indicating that Optum, including roles related to prior authorization, is currently conducting widespread layoffs. Employment stability can vary by department and location, so it is advisable to check official company communications or job boards for the most recent updates.
More about Optum Prior Authorization jobs
What cities are hiring for Optum Prior Authorization jobs? Cities with the most Optum Prior Authorization job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optum Prior Authorization jobs? The most popular types of Optum Prior Authorization jobs are:
What states have the most Optum Prior Authorization jobs? States with the most job openings for Optum Prior Authorization jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optum Prior Authorization job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,704 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Senior Retail Medication Prior Authorization Coordinator

Senior Retail Medication Prior Authorization Coordinator

UnitedHealth Group

Everett, WA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


UnitedHealth Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 886 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by diversity and inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health equity on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together. 

Optum's Pacific West region is redefining health care with a focus on health equity, affordability, quality, and convenience. From California to Oregon and Washington, we are focused on helping more than 2.5 million patients live healthier lives and helping the health system work better for everyone. At Optum Pacific West, we care. We care for our team members, our patients, and our communities. Join our culture of caring and make a positive and lasting impact on health care for millions.

The Senior Retail Medication Prior Authorization Coordinator is responsible for reviewing and processing request for prior authorization of medication in accordance with insurance provider guidelines. This role requires a solid understanding of healthcare insurance policies, pharmacy benefit management, and medical terminology.  

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm PST

Location: Onsite for training at 7600 Evergreen Way, Everett WA for about 1-3 month training period and then will become fully remote.

Candidates must reside near Everett, WA or must be willing and able to commute to the Everett office at their own expense for training

If you reside near Everett, WA, you will enjoy the flexibility to telecommute* as you take on some tough challenges

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Acquire and maintain a working knowledge of health plan formulary and authorization requirements

  • Utilize internal system to facilitate faster turnaround time on a complete authorization

  • Gather necessary information from chart review to submit prior auth request to insurance providers

  • Act as a liaison between providers, pharmacy, health plans and patients to support a timely medication authorization process

  • Communicate with providers, pharmacy, and patients to provide updates on the status of their prior auth request

  • Document in the patient electronic health record all medication authorization work provided following standard work guidelines

  • Provide and document in Epic medication authorization denials and health plan recommendation and or alternatives when provided

  • Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to medication prior authorizations

  • Performs other duties as assigned

What are the reasons to consider working for UnitedHealth Group?   Put it all together - competitive base pay, a full and comprehensive benefit program, performance rewards, and a management team who demonstrates their commitment to your success. Some of our offerings include:

  • Paid Time Off which you start to accrue with your first pay period plus 8 Paid Holidays

  • Medical Plan options along with participation in a Health Spending Account or a Health Saving account

  •  Dental, Vision, Life& AD&D Insurance along with Short-term disability and Long-Term Disability coverage

  • 401(k) Savings Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan

  • Education Reimbursement

  • Employee Discounts

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Employee Referral Bonus Program

  • Voluntary Benefits (pet insurance, legal insurance, LTC Insurance, etc.)

  • More information can be downloaded at: http://uhg.hr/uhgbenefits 

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 1 plus years of Pharmacy Technician or a Medical Assistant experience OR 1 year(s) of experience in a pharmacy setting
  • 1 year(s) of experience with basic computer software and keyboarding
  • Reside within a commutable distance to Everett and surrounding communities in Washington
  • Access to a designated quiet workspace in your home (separated from non-workspace areas) with the ability to secure Protected Health Information (PHI)
  • Live in a location that can receive a UnitedHealth Group approved high-speed internet connection or leverage an existing high-speed internet service

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Current certification from WA State Department of Health as a Certified Medical Assistant or WA State Pharmacy Technician License
  • Knowledge of EMR (EPIC)
  • Proficiency with keyboarding, documentation, and processing prior authorizations 

Soft Skills: 

  • Ability to work independently and maintain good judgment and accountability 
  • Demonstrated ability to work well with health care team 
  • Strong organizational and time management skills 
  • Ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks to meet all deadlines 
  • Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment 
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to speak clearly and concisely, conveying information in a manner that others can understand, as well as ability to understand and interpret information from others 

*All Telecommuters will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy.

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $20 - $36 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.
 

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location, and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups, and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

#RPO, #GREEN


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