The Department of Defense (DOD) is currently hiring for a Medical Records Technician (Coder) position at the Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. This full-time role offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to support military healthcare operations. If you’re skilled in medical coding, data management, and ensuring accurate patient records, this could be your next big step. Read on to learn more about this GS-6 level job opening, including duties, qualifications, and how to apply before the deadline on January 23, 2026.
Why Pursue a Career as a Medical Records Technician in the Federal Sector?
Federal jobs like this Medical Records Technician role provide job security, excellent benefits, and opportunities to contribute to national defense through healthcare support. At Madigan Army Medical Center, part of the Military Treatment Facilities under the Defense Health Agency (DHA), you’ll play a vital role in maintaining precise medical documentation. This position is ideal for those with experience in ICD-10-CM and Procedure Coding System (PCS), offering a chance to work in a dynamic environment without the need for telework or travel.
Key highlights of federal employment in this field:
- Stability and Growth: Permanent appointment with no promotion potential listed, but federal roles often lead to long-term career advancement.
- Competitive Compensation: Salary ranges from $51,037 to $66,348 per year, including locality pay.
- Work-Life Balance: Full-time schedule with no remote options, ensuring a structured routine.
With the healthcare industry booming, medical coding jobs in Washington State are in high demand. This DOD position stands out for its focus on military health systems, making it a top choice for certified coders seeking meaningful work.
Job Duties: What You’ll Do as a Medical Records Technician (Coder)
In this role, you’ll handle inpatient and outpatient records coding, ensuring compliance with regulations and third-party insurance requirements. Your daily tasks will involve using advanced software like the Military Health System (MHS) GENESIS to manage patient data accurately.
Here are the primary responsibilities:
- Utilize automated systems to retrieve reports and input data for patient health records.
- Assign specific codes to medical records, sequencing them to reflect resources and procedures used in patient care.
- Code complex records involving diagnostic, surgical, and therapeutic procedures, especially those in difficult-to-classify Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs).
- Correct and amend records using specialized methods to maintain accuracy.
- Identify and document potential incidents related to quality of care or compensatory events.
- Validate health data for statistical, administrative, and reporting purposes.
This position emphasizes precision and attention to detail, making it perfect for analytical minds in the medical records field.
Qualifications and Requirements: Do You Have What It Takes?
To qualify for this Medical Records Technician job in Tacoma, WA, you’ll need to meet specific experience or education criteria. The DOD is open to U.S. Citizens, Nationals, or those owing allegiance to the U.S., and this is a direct hire solicitation.
Basic Requirements
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience in processing, reviewing, and maintaining medical records; using automated coding tools; and validating data for reporting.
- Education Alternative: 9 semester hours of graduate-level education in fields like medical transcription, health information, or healthcare IT.
- Combination: A mix of education and experience totaling 100% of the requirements.
Additional Conditions
- Pass a background investigation for suitability/fitness.
- Complete a one-year probationary period (if applicable).
- Undergo required immunizations (exemptions possible for medical/administrative reasons).
- No security clearance or drug test required; non-sensitive/low-risk position.
If using foreign education, it must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. Veterans and military spouses receive consideration alongside other applicants.
Education and Evaluation Process
Education plays a key role in qualifying for this federal medical coding job. Accredited transcripts are required if substituting education for experience. You’ll be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and an online questionnaire. Ensure your application highlights relevant skills to avoid disqualification.
Pro Tip: Tailor your resume to include specific examples of ICD-10 coding and medical record management to stand out in the competitive federal hiring process.
Benefits of Working for the Department of Defense
As a federal employee at Madigan Army Medical Center, you’ll enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support you and your family:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement plans with matching contributions.
- Paid leave, including vacation and sick time.
- Life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
- Potential recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
Eligibility varies by position type, but this full-time role offers access to these perks, making it one of the best medical records jobs in Tacoma.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Don’t miss this opportunity—the application window closes on January 23, 2026! Here’s how to get started:
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account at usajobs.gov.
- Complete the online application and questionnaire.
- Submit a two-page resume detailing your experience (longer resumes will be removed).
- Include transcripts if qualifying via education.
- Upload optional documents like a cover letter or performance appraisals.
Direct deposit is required, and male applicants born after 1959 must certify Selective Service registration. For help, contact the Army Applicant Help Desk.
Job Source – https://www.usajobs.gov/job/854452900