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Utilization Review Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Utilization Review RN

Redding, CA ยท On-site

$69.95 - $93.81/hr

The position's emphasis will be on care coordination, communication and collaboration with utilization management, nursing, physicians, ancillary departments, insurers and post acute service ...

Director of Utilization

San Rafael, CA ยท On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

We are seeking a Director of Utilization Review to lead utilization management processes that support appropriate care delivery, regulatory compliance, and effective use of patient benefits. This ...

Director of Utilization

San Rafael, CA ยท On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

We are seeking a Director of Utilization Review to lead utilization management processes that support appropriate care delivery, regulatory compliance, and effective use of patient benefits. This ...

Showing results 41-60

Utilization Review information

See California salary details

$21

$41

$68

How much do utilization review jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for utilization review in California is $41.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.98 and $47.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is utilization review work from home?

Utilization review jobs can often be performed remotely, especially with the increased adoption of telecommuting in healthcare and insurance industries. Many employers offer work-from-home options, provided the reviewer has the necessary certifications and access to electronic health records or claims systems. However, some positions may require on-site presence for meetings or audits.

What does a utilization review do?

A typical day in Utilization Review involves reviewing patient medical records, evaluating the necessity and appropriateness of proposed treatments or services, and documenting recommendations based on clinical criteria and insurance policies. Utilization Review specialists often collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and insurance representatives to gather additional information and clarify cases. While much of the role is desk-based and may include remote work options, it requires regular communication with both clinical and administrative teams. This position offers variety and challenge, as no two cases are exactly alike, and there are often opportunities to advance into supervisory or quality improvement roles within the department.

Is utilization review a stressful job?

Utilization review is a healthcare role that involves evaluating medical necessity and appropriateness of services, which can be stressful due to strict deadlines, high accuracy requirements, and the need to balance patient care with insurance policies. The job often requires strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to handle complex cases under time pressure.

What is a utilization review?

A Utilization Review (UR) job involves assessing the medical necessity, efficiency, and appropriateness of healthcare services. UR professionals, often nurses or healthcare specialists, review patient records, insurance claims, and treatment plans to ensure they meet industry standards and payer requirements. They work with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and regulatory agencies to optimize care while controlling costs. Their goal is to balance quality patient care with cost-effective resource utilization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in utilization review?

To thrive in Utilization Review, professionals typically need a background in nursing or healthcare, strong clinical assessment capabilities, and a thorough understanding of medical guidelines and insurance regulations. Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems and utilization management software, and often certification such as Certified Utilization Review Specialist (CURN), are important. Excellent critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills enable effective case evaluation and collaboration with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications ensure objective, accurate decisions that support cost-effective, quality patient care within compliance standards.

How do I get into a utilization review?

To become a utilization review specialist, typically a healthcare or related degree such as nursing, health administration, or social work is required. Certification in case management or utilization review, such as the Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ), can enhance job prospects. Relevant skills include knowledge of medical coding, insurance policies, and strong analytical abilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Utilization Review jobs in California?

The most popular types of Utilization Review jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Utilization Review jobs?

Cities in California with the most Utilization Review job openings:

Infographic showing various Utilization Review job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,795 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Utilization Review RN (Hybrid)

Vivo HealthStaff

Oakland, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Vivo HealthStaff is searching for a Utilization Review RN for a hybrid position for a health plan in San Francisco. It is a hybrid position with 1-2 days per week on-site required.Collaborates with the physician, nurse case manager, social worker, and other members of the health care team to meet individualized patient outcomes. Performs concurrent, and retrospective medical record reviews based on approved screening criteria, knowledge of insurance coverage, and communication with the third-party payers. Ensures medical necessity determinations, service authorization and concurrent denials are managed effectively and financially responsibly.EducationValid RN license in State of CaliforniaBachelor's degree in NursingExperienceClinical experience in acute care setting RequiredExperience with interqual and millimen PreferredLicenses and CertificationsCPR - Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation CPR/BLS Preferred andCCM - Certified Case Manager CCM Preferred andACMA PreferredKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesVerbal and written communication skills.Basic computer skills.Diagnostic and problem-solving skills.Contributes to the achievement of established department goals and objectives and adheres to department policies, procedures, quality standards, and safety standards. Complies with governmental and accreditation regulations.Actively participates in ongoing professional enrichment and educational opportunities. Collaborates with and assists the nurse case manager and social worker to meet the patients' continuing health needs in a high quality, cost effective manner. Participates in planning rounds as needed to address and communicate issues related to acuity level of patient, LOS insurance and discharge needs.Collects quality improvement data in accordance with approved indicators. Recognizes potential problems and makes referrals to quality improvement, risk management, safety, infection control, and other departments as appropriate.Confers and collaborates routinely with the physician advisor, division chiefs, and attending physicians to resolve problems regarding acuity and level of care.Evaluates concurrent and retrospective denials for appeal opportunities. May generate appeal letters based on knowledge of clinical severity and intensity.Identifies insurance information, obtains authorization, communicates with financial counseling and assigns appropriate length of stay for admission.Implements strategies to avoid denials including potential denial notification to attending physician. Issues letter of non-coverage for Medicare or third party payers according to policies and procedures. Communicates utilization plans to case management team.Performs admission reviews and subsequent concurrent reviews to determine the necessity for acute care by application of accepted criteria based on age specific needs. Interacts with and assists third party payer reviewers to facilitate appropriate care and ensure payment for services. Performs concurrent and retrospective reviews telephonically as required. Completes all forms and documentation necessary to support appropriate utilization of resources.Serves as a resource to all staff in areas of utilization review/management. Educates members of health care team through in-services, staff meetings, orientation and formal educational offerings.Demonstrates knowledge of the dynamics of abuse/neglect, including identification and reporting laws. Coordinates with investigating law enforcement, protection agencies, hospital security, risk management, and healthcare team. Demonstrates knowledge of community resources serving the high social risk populations.Performs other duties as assigned.

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About Vivo HealthStaff

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Vivo HealthStaff provides permanent recruitment services for both clinical and administrative positions in the healthcare sector. Over the past 2 years, our clients have seen a 98% retention rate with Vivo HealthStaff placements.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Dublin, CA, US

Year founded

2016

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