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Utilization Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Director of Utilization

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Direct and manage the day-to-day operations of the Utilization Review department. Responsibilities ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Monitor utilization of services and optimize reimbursement for the facility ...

Director of Utilization

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Direct and manage the day-to-day operations of the Utilization Review department. Responsibilities ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Monitor utilization of services and optimize reimbursement for the facility ...

Direct and manage the day-to-day operations of the Utilization Review department. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Monitor utilization of services and optimize reimbursement for the facility while maximizing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Utilization Manager information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$89.8K

$165.3K

How much do utilization manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for utilization manager in California is $89,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $108,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a utilization manager do?

A utilization manager oversees the allocation and efficient use of resources, such as staff and equipment, to meet organizational goals. They analyze data, monitor utilization rates, and ensure compliance with policies, often using tools like spreadsheets or specialized software. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills to optimize productivity and control costs.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Utilization Managers typically require a relevant background in healthcare, logistics, or operations, and their salaries usually do not reach $4,000 weekly without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, or skilled trades like certain construction or technical jobs, which rely more on experience and skills than formal education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utilization Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utilization Manager, you need a solid background in healthcare management, case review, and knowledge of insurance regulations, often supported by a degree in nursing, healthcare administration, or a related field. Familiarity with utilization management software, electronic health records (EHRs), and certification such as Certified Case Manager (CCM) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and negotiation skills help Utilization Managers effectively coordinate care and collaborate with providers. These skills ensure appropriate resource use, regulatory compliance, and optimal patient outcomes within healthcare organizations.

What is the highest paying job in healthcare management?

The highest paying roles in healthcare management include Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of hospitals and health systems, with salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. Other high-paying positions include Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) and Chief Operating Officers (COOs), who oversee organizational strategy and operations, typically earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills.

What are some common challenges faced by Utilization Managers, and how can they be addressed?

Utilization Managers often face challenges such as balancing cost containment with patient care quality, navigating complex insurance policies, and managing high caseloads. To address these, effective communication with healthcare providers and payers is essential, as is staying current with regulatory requirements and best practices. Building strong relationships within interdisciplinary teams and leveraging data analytics tools can also help Utilization Managers make informed decisions and improve workflow efficiency.

What Is a Utilization Manager?

A utilization manager works in the insurance industry to analyze health care needs in medical cases and determine further patient care. In this career, your job duties include conducting interviews to determine what services you register for and cutting down on unnecessary costs. You may review medical records and compile documentation to improve care and report your findings. Skills in management, customer service, and health care services are vital in this career. Job experience in nursing is a benefit when applying for utilization manager positions. Additional qualifications include a bachelor’s degree and medical case management certificate.

What is the difference between Utilization Manager vs Utilization Coordinator?

AspectUtilization ManagerUtilization Coordinator
CertificationsOften requires healthcare or case management certificationsMay have similar certifications but less emphasis on management
Work EnvironmentTypically in healthcare organizations, overseeing utilization review processesSupports daily operations, assisting with case documentation and scheduling
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in healthcare, insurance, and managed care companiesFound in similar settings, often working under Utilization Managers

In summary, a Utilization Manager generally has broader responsibilities, overseeing utilization review and resource allocation, while a Utilization Coordinator focuses on supporting daily tasks and documentation. Both roles are integral in healthcare settings but differ in scope and level of responsibility.

Is being a MOA a good entry level job?

A Medical Office Assistant (MOA) role is often considered an entry-level position in healthcare, requiring basic administrative skills and knowledge of medical terminology. It provides experience in patient interaction, scheduling, and office management, which can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced healthcare roles. However, career advancement may require additional certifications or education.
What are the most commonly searched types of Utilization jobs in California? The most popular types of Utilization jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Utilization Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Utilization Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Utilization Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,819 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Utilization Management Registered Nurse

Utilization Management Registered Nurse

Valley Children's Healthcare

Madera, CA

$57.29 - $81.72/day

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Valley Children's Hospital rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

727th of 1,020 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Summary:The Utilization Management Nurse supports the case management department by providing a variety of utilization management functions including but not limited to daily screening of patient admission relative to specified criteria, active involvement in denial management, acting as a resource to staff regarding clinical criteria, communication with payors to address concerns and other duties as assigned. The Utilization Management Nurse will work collaboratively with the Utilization Nurse Program Coordinator to ensure compliance with regulatory, organizational and department requirements. The Utilization Review Nurse will receive direction from the Utilization Review Program Coordinator for daily and long term tasks and projects.

Qualifications:


Education

  • Associates Degree Nursing (required)
  • Bachelors Degree Nursing or related field (preferred)


Licenses and Certifications

  • RN - Registered Nurse License - CA-BRN - California Board of Registered Nursing (required)


Work Experience

  • Minimum three (3) years Full time equivalent RN experience in an acute care hospital. (required)
  • Pediatric experience and experience in Case Management and/or Utilization Review. (preferred)


Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of UM regulations.
    Knowledge of private and public payer reimbursement practices and procedures.
    Excellent organizational and communication skills and ability to work with a variety of health care professionals.
    Ability to work independently.
  • Computer Skills Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets and database software.


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Compensation Range:

$57.29 - $81.72

Workshift:

Day (United States of America)

Position Exempt:

No

FTE %:

90

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

36

Daily Hours:

8

Have Questions?

Call Recruitment Services at 559-353-7071 or email us at recruiting@valleychildrens.org
Disclaimer: Final compensation will be dependent upon skills and experience.


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