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Pre Authorization Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Life Sciences Business Architect

Valencia, CA · On-site

$61.50 - $80/hr

Valencia, CA Overview: We're looking for an experienced professional with strong expertise in the Pre-Authorization (Pre-Auth) space within Life Sciences and Healthcare . The role involves advising ...

$39 - $45/hr

Knowledgeable with the pre-authorization process and workflow, with prior authorization experience preferred. 7.Knowledgeable in computers and MS Office programs (i.e., Word, Excel, Outlook, Access ...

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Pre Authorization information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$31

How much do pre authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for pre authorization in California is $20.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pre authorization specialist?

Pre authorization specialists are healthcare professionals responsible for obtaining approval from insurance companies before certain medical procedures, treatments, or medications are provided to patients. They review medical records, communicate with insurance providers, and ensure all necessary documentation is submitted according to payer requirements. This role helps prevent claim denials, reduces delays in patient care, and supports both medical providers and patients in navigating insurance processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pre authorization specialist?

To thrive as a Pre-Authorization Specialist, you need knowledge of medical terminology, insurance processes, and healthcare regulations, often supported by a healthcare-related degree or relevant administrative experience. Familiarity with insurance verification systems, electronic health records (EHRs), and payer portals is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this position. These abilities are essential to ensure timely and accurate insurance approvals, minimize claim denials, and support seamless patient care.

What are some common challenges faced by pre authorization specialists, and how can these be managed effectively?

Pre Authorization specialists often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing insurance requirements, managing large volumes of requests, and navigating communication between healthcare providers and insurers. Staying current with payer policies and maintaining strong organizational skills are key to success. Building good relationships with clinical and billing teams can help streamline the process, while using technology to track and manage authorizations can reduce errors and delays.

What is the difference between Pre Authorization vs Medical Billing Specialist?

AspectPre AuthorizationMedical Billing Specialist
Required CredentialsCertification often preferred, knowledge of insurance policiesCertification varies, focus on billing and coding skills
Work EnvironmentHealthcare providers, insurance companiesMedical offices, billing companies
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, insurance firmsMedical practices, billing services

Pre Authorization involves obtaining approval from insurance companies before services are provided, ensuring coverage. Medical Billing Specialists handle coding, billing, and claims processing after services are rendered. While both roles are essential in healthcare reimbursement, Pre Authorization focuses on pre-approval processes, whereas Medical Billing Specialists manage post-service billing activities.

How do I become a pre authorization specialist?

To become a pre-authorization specialist, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in healthcare administration or insurance processing. Relevant skills include knowledge of medical billing, coding, and insurance policies, and some roles may require certification such as Certified Medical Administrative Specialist (CMAS).

Is prior authorization a stressful job?

Pre-authorization jobs can be stressful due to the need for accuracy, attention to detail, and managing deadlines to ensure timely approval of services or medications. The role often involves handling complex insurance policies and communicating with healthcare providers, which can contribute to workplace pressure. However, stress levels vary depending on the work environment and individual coping skills.
Infographic showing various Pre Authorization job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,890 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Authorization Coordinator - Full Time, Day Shift

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Adventist Health
Non-Profits • 10K+ employees

$20 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Adventist Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 247 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Centered in the heart of Boyle Heights, Adventist Health White Memorial is one of the area's leading healthcare providers since 1913. We are comprised of a 353-bed hospital, three medical office buildings, residency programs, comprehensive cancer care and a vast scope of services located in the Los Angeles area. In 2019, Adventist Health White Memorial was recognized with the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation's highest presidential honor for performance excellence. We are proud to promote wellness in the community at the local farmers market and through our community resource center with services for seniors and Spanish-speakers. Los Angeles is known for its art, rich culture, numerous sports teams and world-renowned dining. There is something for everyone in this culturally diverse city.

Job Summary:

Responsible for management of prior authorizations of all activities requiring referrals for procedures, serves as the key coordinator and liaison whose primary role is to expedite the collection process.

Job Requirements:

Education and Work Experience:

  • High School Education/GED or equivalent: Preferred
  • Associate's/Technical Degree or equivalent combination of education/related experience: Preferred

Facility Specific License/Certifications:

  • Hospital Fire and Life Safety (HLFS): Required

Essential Functions:

  • Performs daily reconciliation of scheduled procedures, documenting authorization numbers obtained by others, as well as obtaining any authorizations and retroactive authorizations as needed. Serves as the coordinator for scheduled and pre-authorized procedures.
  • Reconciles, updates and obtains retroactive authorizations as needed. Performs insurance verification prior to office visit procedures. Interacts with providers and staff to provide guidance and advice with regard to billing, relative to necessary procedures.
  • Serves as an authoritative source to reconcile and update the authorization numbers and generate a work list of authorizations needed. Communicates with insurance providers about the patient's medical necessity, obtain authorization for needed authorizations and reconcile to the authorization database and/or hospital systems.
  • Corrects inaccurate information, CPT and ICD9 codes that prohibit pre-authorization being secured and charges being entered into billing system.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Organizational Requirements:

Adventist Health is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our associates and patients. Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment and annually thereafter, where applicable. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.
Adventist Health participates in E-Verify. Visit https://adventisthealth.org/careers/everify/ for more information about E-Verify. By choosing to apply, you acknowledge that you have accessed and read the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work notices and understand the contents therein.

Adventist Health is a faith-based, nonprofit, integrated health system serving more than 100 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii with over 440 sites of care, including 27 acute care facilities. Founded on Adventist heritage and values, Adventist Health provides care in hospitals, clinics, home care, and hospice agencies in both rural and urban communities. Our compassionate and talented team of more than 38,000 includes employees, physicians, Medical Staff, and volunteers driven in pursuit of one mission: living God's love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.

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