A Guide for Residents to Landing Your First Physician Job
The transition from residency to your first attending physician position represents one of the most significant career milestones in medicine. After years of intensive training, you're ready to practice independently but finding the right opportunity requires strategic planning and careful consideration.
This physician career guide will walk you through the essential steps for securing your ideal attending position, from timeline considerations to negotiation strategies. Whether you're exploring academic medicine, private practice, or hospital employment, these insights will help you navigate the job search process with confidence.
Physician Jobs
Start Your Search Early: The 12-18 Month Rule
Begin your physician job search 12-18 months before completing your residency or fellowship. This timeline might seem excessive, but early preparation provides several critical advantages:
- More opportunities: The best positions often have lengthy recruitment cycles
- Better preparation: You'll have time to refine your CV, gather references, and research employers
- Reduced stress: Avoiding last-minute scrambling allows for thoughtful decision-making
- Negotiation leverage: Multiple offers strengthen your bargaining position
Starting early also gives you time to complete necessary credentialing processes, which can take several months to finalize.
Essential Steps in Your Job Search Process
Research Your Options Thoroughly
Identify your practice preferences early. Consider factors like:
- Geographic location and lifestyle preferences
- Practice setting (academic, private practice, hospital-employed)
- Subspecialty focus areas
- Call schedules and work-life balance expectations
- Compensation models and benefits packages
Build a Strong Professional Network
Networking remains crucial for discovering physician jobs that may not be publicly advertised. Connect with:
- Attendings from your residency program
- Alumni from your medical school
- Professional medical associations in your specialty
- Colleagues from medical conferences and continuing education events
Leverage Professional Resources
Consider working with specialized physician recruitment services that offer:
- Access to a broad network of healthcare employers nationwide
- Personalized job placement assistance
- Guidance on contract negotiation
- Support with licensing and credentialing processes
Prepare Your Application Materials
Polish Your Medical CV
Your curriculum vitae should highlight:
- Education and training background
- Research experience and publications
- Clinical experience and rotations
- Leadership roles and volunteer work
- Professional certifications and board eligibility
Secure Strong References
Identify attending physicians who can speak to your clinical skills, professionalism, and work ethic. Provide them with your CV and information about positions you're pursuing to help them tailor their recommendations.
Consider Moonlighting as Preparation
Moonlighting during residency can provide valuable experience for your attending career. Benefits include:
- Skill enhancement: Practice clinical decision-making independently
- Networking opportunities: Build relationships with potential employers
- Financial benefits: Supplement resident stipends while gaining experience
- Career exploration: Test different practice settings before committing
Important Considerations For Moonlighting:
- Verify state licensing requirements align with your moonlighting location
- Confirm malpractice insurance coverage for outside work
- Ensure compliance with your residency program's moonlighting policies
- Start with light schedules (one weekend shift per month) to avoid burnout
Navigate the Interview Process
Prepare for both virtual and in-person interviews by:
- Researching the organization's mission, values, and recent developments
- Preparing thoughtful questions about call schedules, patient populations, and growth opportunities
- Being ready to discuss your career goals and how they align with the position
- Demonstrating your clinical knowledge and problem-solving abilities
Evaluate Job Offers Carefully
When reviewing physician job opportunities, consider:
- Compensation package: Base salary, productivity bonuses, benefits, and retirement contributions
- Work-life balance: Call schedules, vacation time, and continuing education support
- Growth opportunities: Partnership tracks, leadership development, and subspecialty options
- Practice stability: Financial health of the organization and physician retention rates
Your Next Steps to Success
Landing your first attending physician role takes time, preparation, and smart planning. Starting 12–18 months before completing residency gives you the best chance to secure a position that fits your goals.
At AMN Healthcare, our expert recruiters specialize in helping new physicians transition successfully into practice. We connect you with tailored opportunities and provide valuable insights to support your journey.
Download our eBook, Launchpad to a Successful Career, to learn more about the physician job market, contract tips, and career strategies that will help you make confident, informed decisions as you start your medical career.
