Entry-Level Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Salary in Pierre, SD: $11,205 (2026)

In Pierre, many employers actively seek new graduates for entry-level medical billing and coding positions. Notably, third-party coding companies and payer coding audit teams often hire individuals with a CPC-A certification, providing structured mentorship and training. Entry-level positions can also be found within physician group practices and outpatient Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs), while hospitals typically require a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) for inpatient coding roles. Pursuing credentials such as the AAPC's CPC or CPC-A, or the AHIMA's CCS or CCS-P can significantly enhance starting pay in South Dakota. New coders should focus on developing skills in ICD-10-CM coding and staying current with quarterly CPT updates, especially given the industry’s shift to roughly 80% remote work since 2020. Entering the rapidly growing subspecialty of risk adjustment coding could bolster earning potential in the first few years, with realistic salary growth expected as newly certified professionals gain experience and advanced credentials.