For most physicians, the timeline begins with submitting a CV or online application. From there, the process usually follows a series of steps:

1. Application received. Within a day or two, the application or CV will be forwarded to the  recruiter or hiring party. If no positions are open at the time, the information will be filed for future openings. The bulk of the applications come within three weeks after a job is posted.

2. Application reviewed. After gathering CVs, recruiters and medical directors review applications to decide which candidates to contact. In-house recruiters do the same, keeping in mind what department heads have said they’re looking for. On average, this process can take two to three weeks.

3. Phone interview. After identifying top candidates, employers may contact applicants for a brief phone interview to gauge interest and see if the person would be a good fit. 

4. In-person interview. If the phone interview goes well, the employer will schedule an in-person interview, usually within 30-60 days after they’ve received your original application. Most hospitals or private practices will cover all travel costs including flights, hotels, car rentals and food.

5. Contract offered. If an employer and physician agree that they’re a good match, the employer usually extends an offer and issues a contract about 60-90 days after initial contact. Then, negotiations begin.

6. Contract Review and Negotiations. Depending on the complexity of the contract , the extent of negotiations and if contract attorneys are involved in the review process, this stage can last several months. 

In total, the time between a job posting to a signed contract can be anywhere from 30 days to 6 months.