Launch Your Career as a Medical Records Technician with the Indian Health Service

Are you a detail-oriented professional looking to make a meaningful impact on the health outcomes of American Indian and Alaska Native populations? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking talented individuals to fill Medical Records Technician (Coder) roles within the Portland Area. This is a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

About the Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a dynamic, nationwide federal organization dedicated to providing healthcare services to over 2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Working with the IHS means joining a community of professionals who are passionate about health equity, service, and innovative problem-solving. Whether you are working in rural Idaho or urban Washington, you are part of a larger mission to improve patient lives and bridge health disparities.

Role Overview and Responsibilities

As a Medical Records Technician, your primary responsibility is to manage the integrity of clinical information. You will perform critical ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding to support accurate billing, funding, and operational decision-making.

Key duties include:

Reviewing outpatient and observation records to ensure 100% regulatory compliance.
Conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis of records to verify documentation accuracy.
Collaborating with healthcare providers to resolve coding discrepancies and documentation gaps.
Ensuring that final diagnoses reflect the care provided and support medical necessity.

Requirements for Success

To be considered, applicants must demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level. This experience should involve medical terminology, coding procedures, and chart analysis.

Grade Level	Key Requirement
GS-05	1 year of specialized experience or 4 years of relevant education
GS-06	1 year of specialized experience in chart analysis and coding
GS-07	1 year of specialized experience in coding compliance and documentation analysis

Salary and Benefits

Positions at the IHS offer a comprehensive federal compensation package. The salary range for this role is $40,736 to $73,731 annually. Beyond the salary, employees gain access to federal health benefits, retirement plans, and generous leave accrual rates. Note that for new federal employees, the IHS may offer credit for previous related non-federal or active-duty military experience to accelerate your leave accrual rate.

How to Apply

Prepare Your Resume: Ensure it highlights specific coding duties, hours worked, and clinical software experience.
Gather Documents: Collect your transcripts, DD214 (if a veteran), or Form BIA-4432 (if claiming Indian Preference).
Apply via USAJOBS: Visit the application portal before the closing date.
USA Hire Assessment: Be prepared to complete the required online assessment shortly after your application is submitted.

Joining the Indian Health Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to service. If you possess the coding skills and the drive to improve health outcomes, we invite you to join our team in the Portland Area. Start your application today and take the first step toward a rewarding federal career.

Why This Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in health information management while making a lasting impact on American Indian and Alaska Native communities with the Indian Health Service.

Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated Medical Records Technicians (Coders) to join our Portland Area team. In this role, you will play a vital part in the healthcare delivery cycle by performing accurate ICD-10 CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding. Your work ensures that patient records are complete, compliant, and ready for statistical and reimbursement processes, directly supporting the high-quality care our patients deserve. This position offers multiple locations in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, allowing you to contribute your specialized skills in diverse, community-oriented settings.

Requirements for Medical Records Technician (Coder)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must complete a federal background investigation.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must pass the E-Verify employment check.
Must meet all qualification requirements by the announcement closing date.
Public Law 101-630 compliance (suitability requirements for contact with Indian children).

Preferred Qualifications for Medical Records Technician (Coder)

Professional experience in medical coding (ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS).
Proficiency in performing quantitative and qualitative analysis of clinical documentation.
Demonstrated ability to ensure documentation accuracy for medical necessity and compliance.
Experience in resolving documentation deficiencies with clinical staff.
Strong organizational skills regarding health information management.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and promotion potential up to GS-8.
✓Leave accrual based on years of Federal service.
✓Possible credit for directly related non-federal or military experience toward annual leave.
✓Relocation or recruitment incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.

💡 How to Apply Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job

Review the full announcement details and requirements.
Prepare your resume according to USAJOBS guidelines.
Click the Apply Online button and complete the required questionnaires.
Attach all necessary supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, DD214, BIA-4432).
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Complete any required USA Hire Assessments if notified via email or your application dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly lists the duties and hours worked for each position.
Submit all requested documents immediately to avoid disqualification.
Use the USAJOBS 'Track this application' feature to monitor your status and assessment requirements.
Check your application status regularly to view notifications from the hiring agency.
If claiming Indian Preference, ensure Form BIA-4432 is signed, dated, and attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this role?

The position has promotion potential up to the GS-8 grade level, though promotions are based on management discretion, performance, and organizational need.

Are there multiple locations for this job?

Yes, vacancies are currently available in Fort Hall, Idaho; Salem, Oregon; Warm Springs, Oregon; and Toppenish, Washington.

How is my qualification evaluated?

Evaluation is based on your application materials, including your resume and responses to the required USA Hire Assessment and application questionnaire.