Search Jobs

The City of Berkeley's Police Department is recognized as one of the most progressive and innovative law enforcement agencies in the country, and continually strives to develop programs which focus upon increased service to the community in conjunction with enhanced effectiveness in combating crime. 

The City of Berkeley is seeking qualified candidates who are interested in becoming Police Officers. As a Police Officer Recruit, you will attend a California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified police academy to receive education and training in all aspects of law enforcement such as laws of arrest, search and seizure, crime prevention, community relations, first-aid, physical conditioning, self-defense, handling of weapons and other related duties. Upon graduation from the academy, the Police Recruit is sworn in as a Police Officer and assumes the duties of that position.

Click the following links for more information about this exciting career opportunity:
Police Officer Flyer
Join Berkeley PD | Police Officer Jobs
Video of us in action

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is completion of 60 college semester units. Previous volunteer or paid experience in a law enforcement support area is desirable.
 
Other requirements include:

• Must be free from any disqualifications for employment, including felony convictions.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law.
• Must be 21 years of age or older at time of appointment.
• Must be fingerprinted for purposes of search of local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose a criminal record.
• Must be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background investigation.
• Must be a high school graduate, pass the General Education Development Test or other high school equivalency test approved by the State Department of Education that indicates high school graduation level, pass the California High School Proficiency Examination, or have attained a two-year, four-year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university.
• Must be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, that might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer.
• Must possess a valid California driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record. 
• Must be able to meet physical, psychological and background standards. 
• Must be willing to work evening, night, weekend and holiday shifts. 
• Must be able to obtain required POST certification and maintain firearms qualification.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants must submit a complete application and responses to the supplemental questionnaire. Please note that resumes are not a substitute for a completed application. 

Applications are available in alternative formats (audio-format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) upon request to ada@berkeleyca.gov. Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format. 

 

EXAM PROCESS

The exam process will include, but is not limited to: 

• Application review for minimum qualifications and required documents
• Written Exam: POST PELLETB
• Performance Exam: Physical Abilities Test (PAT)

The written exam and performance exam will be administered on the same day. See the job announcement for upcoming City of Berkeley exam dates. 

If you are unable to attend the City of Berkeley exam dates, you may register and take your exams with The Academy. The Academy charges a non-refundable materials fee of $10 for the written exam, $25 for the practice PAT, and $100 for the official PAT. After taking the exams and receiving passing scores, please attach your scores to your application.

POST will not authorize you to take the exam within 30 calendar days of having taken your last POST written exam. Please refer to the POST website for additional information.

Applicants may waive the written exam only by submitting a California POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) T-score of 48 points or higher. We will accept California POST T-scores from other agencies provided the test was taken no more than one year prior to the date of application. Applicants must submit, on agency letterhead, a letter that states that the individual has taken the California PELLETB written exam. The letter must contain the total T-score and the date of the test. For information on where the PELLETB test is offered, please visit www.theacademy.ca.gov/tests.

Applicants may waive the performance exam only by submitting a California POST physical agility certificate, known as the Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB), with a score of 325 or higher.  The 1.5-mile run is not a requirement.  The test should not be dated no more than one year prior to the date of application.

Tests may consist of any combination of written, oral or other exercises or assessment procedures that test content and may include, but are not necessarily limited to, typing, math, reading, writing and analytical skills; problem solving ability; computer and software proficiency, or any other job-related knowledge, skill, ability or qualification. The examination process and dates are subject to change. The City may, without notice, change or eliminate any assessment component as needs dictate. Applicants passing all examination phases will have their names placed on an employment eligible list that hiring departments will use to conduct final selection interviews.

Reasonable Accommodations: The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must submit a request in writing to hr@berkeleyca.gov at the time of application. 

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.

CITY CLERK – FULL TIME / AT-WILL

$91,568 - $127,178 annually plus Excellent Benefits
(Salary range currently under review)
 

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The City of Woodland is seeking a dedicated and reliable professional with the highest level of integrity, outstanding judgment, and established leadership skills for the position of City Clerk. 

The Ideal Candidate is committed to public service and knowledgeable in applicable laws and regulations, such as the Brown Act, Public Records Act, Political Reform Act, California Election Code, and other related laws and regulations.

The Ideal Candidate will value the community and possess high emotional intelligence as an ambassador of the City and liaison to the public.  The successful candidate will be committed to excellence in customer service and have strong organizational, and administrative management skills as well as meticulous attention to detail. 

The Ideal Candidate has a strong work ethic and will lead with empathy and integrity and will be a fair and impartial professional in all interactions. The Ideal Candidate will be collaborative, inclusive, tech savvy, and will promote a culture of transparency.  The ability to build close working relationships with City Staff and City Council Members is essential.

The Ideal Candidate will also need to be highly self‐organized, confident, and adaptable, with a keen ability to reprioritize projects based on sensitive demands.  They should be able to work independently on a variety of projects with minimal direction. 

The Ideal Candidate must have a calm demeanor and a solution-oriented mindset, especially when interacting with and educating the public.  The nature of this position requires an individual who is creative, discerning, and constantly striving to improve.

POSITION

The City Clerk plans, organizes, and directs all functions and responsibilities of the City Clerk's office as specified by the City Council and as required by law.  This is an exempt Management Position. The incumbent serves in an at-will capacity and sits at the pleasure of the City Manager.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS*

The City Clerk performs the following duties which may include, but are not limited to:

• Coordinates and prepares agenda for City Council and designated commission meetings.
• Reviews agenda items for compliance with legal requirements.
• Organizes completed staff reports.
• Reproduces and distributes agenda packages to appropriate individuals and organizations.
• Ensures the City Council Chamber is in proper order for all meetings.
• Attends City Council and designated commission meetings, acts as recording secretary and prepares minutes.
• Prepares "action" letters and appointments for follow-up activity resulting from City Council meetings.
• Establishes and maintains a reminder or follow-up system to ensure continued items are placed on the appropriate City Council agenda.
• Maintains a comprehensive general index of the official meeting minutes and files of all city records, including City Council actions for follow-up and/or filing, maintenance and storage.
• Administers oaths or affirmations.
• Takes and certifies affidavits and dispositions pertaining to city affairs.
• Prepares, administers and monitors assigned budgets.
• Prepares proper attestation for adopted ordinances and resolutions.
• Posts and distributes completed documents in accordance with established procedures.
• Maintains the Municipal Code and establishes supplemental procedures in order to update and republish the Code as required.
• Coordinates and/or performs all clerical functions for the City Council.
• Coordinates, plans, and conducts regular and special consolidated municipal elections.
• Oversees campaign and Fair Political Practices Commission related filings according to established procedures and State law for elected officials and designated employees.
• Certifies action taken by the City Council regarding conveying or receiving property.
• Files documents, as required, with the County Recorder.
• Manages the citywide records management program.
• Serves as custodian of the official City Seal and archives.
• Maintains custody of official records including ordinances, resolutions, contracts, agreements, deeds, minutes, and certifies copies as required.
• Attests, publishes, indexes and files ordinances and resolutions.
• Oversees the publication of legal notices, postings and mailings.
• Coordinates the appointments to city boards and commissions.
• Trains, evaluates, supervises and disciplines staff assigned to the City Clerk function.

* Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:  

Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge and skill.  A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and skill would be: 

Education: 
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public administration, business administration, or a closely related field.

Experience: 
Five (5) years of experience in performing high-level and complex administrative and analytical work, including two (2) years supervisory experience, preferable in a public agency.  Experience in a City Clerk's office is desirable.

Licenses and Certificates: 

Possession and maintenance of a valid California driver's license.  Must be able to obtain and maintain a Notary Commission within twelve (12) months of employment.  Ability to obtain certification as a Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) within three (3) years, if not already obtained.  Possession of Certified Municipal Clerk designation upon hire is highly desirable.

Bilingual: 
Knowledge of a second language is beneficial.

APPLICATION

Apply with a City of Woodland application online at www.cityofwoodland.gov/employment or by visiting the Human Resources Office, City Hall, 300 First Street, Woodland, CA 95695 by 5:00PM on Monday, May 13, 2024.  Supplemental questionnaire must be submitted with application by the final filing date to be considered.  Résumés and cover letters are encouraged but will not be accepted in lieu of the application form.  Postmarks will not be accepted.  

Review Process:  Based on the information provided in the application documents, the best qualified applicants will be invited for further examination.  All applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the examination.  Depending upon the number of applications received, the examination may consist of an application screening, written and/or practical exam, oral interview or any combination thereof.  Applicants will be required to take and pass a medical examination by a City of Woodland physician to ensure their physical suitability to perform the assigned duties. 

If you have a disability that requires accommodation during the selection process, please notify Human Resources at least seven (7) days prior to the event.

Panel interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of May 20, 2024.

CURRENT SALARY (under review)
$91,568.76 - $127,178.88 annually
$7,630.73 - $10,598.24 per month
$3,521.88 - $4,891.50 bi-weekly

BENEFITS**

The following are some of the excellent benefits that the City of Woodland offers to its employees:

➤ Vacation: 7 hours per month during the first 3 years of service

➤ Health Plans: CalPERS Medical Insurance Plans, including HMOs & PPOs. The City gives an allowance toward the cost of insurance, the maximum Family Allowance for 2024: $2,195.79/Month. The City offers paid Delta Dental and VSP Vision insurance.

➤ Retirement Programs are available through CalPERS (2% @ 60 for Classic CalPERS members and 2% @ 62 for new CalPERS members).

➤ Voluntary Benefits: Supplemental Life, Cancer, Accident Only, STD/LTD, Critical Illness insurance, and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).

➤ Life Insurance: The City provides $50,000 life insurance policy.

➤ Administrative Leave: 96 hours of leave time given each fiscal year.

➤ Bilingual Pay: $200 per month upon certification

➤ Professional Growth Incentive: $625 per year for additional educational or professional activities.

** Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice.

The City of Woodland hires only U.S. citizens and individuals lawfully authorized to work in the U.S.  The City of Woodland is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Located in Roseville, CA!

The Electrical Engineer IV-V position performs a variety of exciting engineering duties associated with the NCPA generation fleet and the NCPA-affiliated members utilities. The Engineering Level IV-V will serve as a subject matter expert on power plant electrical systems and municipal electrical systems. The scope of  expertise includes both the technical and regulatory components of electrical generating facilities, generator protection, transmission systems, and substations systems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This position requires the incumbent to report to work and meetings on time, ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent, and performs special assignments as assigned. Employees at this level will manage numerous studies and assessments. Additionally, this position will manage or assist capital and maintenance improvement projects from concept to completion. This position also provides onsite electrical subject matter expertise to power plant operations, generator operator NERC subject matter expertise, and electrical training to staff. 

Level IV:  
This is the journey-level class within the engineer series. Working with minimal direction, employees at this level assist or lead capital projects, including project management, giving project assignments, reviewing work, providing guidance, and giving instruction to project personnel, including professional engineering staff, other staff, and contractors.  

Level V: 
This is the senior-level class within the engineering series. Working with minimal direction and often taking department goals and translating them into work assignments for individuals and other departments. Employees at this level are given the most complex multi-year projects.

Responsibilities:
Coordinate NERC regulatory requirements for the Generation Services department. Leads the Generations Service NERC Compliance Program. Ensures that all Reliability Standard Audit Worksheets (RSAWs) are completed in a timely manner and proper records are maintained. 

Conduct engineering, perform economic and technical feasibility studies on both capital improvements and project enhancements for the Geothermal, Hydroelectric, and the Combustion Turbine Plants facilities, microgrids, PSPS (Public Safety Power Shutoffs), distributed energy resources, and other distribution resources found in city utilizes. 

Leads and coordinates small to large work groups to support various initiatives. Develops and sets schedules, develops meeting agendas, and manages meetings to meet timelines. 

Participates in the review of technical and economic analysis of new projects, specifications, and agreements. Prepares periodic reports on progress and issues relating to the above.  

Provide verbal and written reports to committees and working groups on industry best practices, current technologies, and regulatory impacts. 

Performs “root cause” analysis on equipment malfunction and failures. Provides on-site plant technical support for electric systems. Provides electric system support for city distribution system. 

Provide support for preparing technical specifications by using industry-standard codes and practices and NCPA’s policies and procedures. 

Provides input to NCPA’s budget and business plan.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Level IV:
Education and/or Experience      
This level requires a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering an accredited four-year college or university; and a minimum of 7 years of related experience and/or a combination of experience and additional training. A California Professional Engineering License is highly desirable and in some cases a requirement. 

Level V:
Education and/or Experience      
This level requires a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an accredited four-year college or university; and a minimum of 8-10 years of related experience and/or a combination of experience and additional training. A California Professional Engineering License is highly desirable and in some cases a requirement.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES 
Knowledge:
The position requires a thorough understanding of regulatory guidelines and expectations for the electrical power industry with emphasis on California; Knowledge of principles and practices of engineering planning, design, and construction as applied to public works projects, utility systems, and/or private development projects; Principles and practices of leadership, motivation, team building, and conflict resolution; Project Management principles and practices; and knowledge of safety work practices and principles associated in working around generating facilities.  

Abilities:
Ability to exercise a high level of independent judgment, organization, and coordination skills in order to handle multiple assignments; Ability to function as a competent specialist; Prepare clear and concise engineering reports; Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; Analyze situations accurately and take effective action; Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, members, and the general public; Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, and negotiate and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; Ability to take initiative and make sound decisions, assume ownership and accountability for issues, problems, projects, and assignments; and the ability to comply with safety and security measures.  

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Valid California Driver's License and insurance as frequent travel by car to NCPA facilities or NCPA member cities is required. 

An active California professional registration as an Electrical or Mechanical Engineer is highly desirable for both levels.

This position may serve as a nonsupervisory specialist or supervisor. If acting as a supervisor, carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; outside weather conditions and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination.
 

Highlights: 

1. Play a key role in facilitating the digital transformation of the Community Development department. 
2. Embrace a flexible work-life balance with our 9/80 schedule
3. Highly competitive salary and benefits package

We are seeking an innovative and proactive Building Official with a positive, forward-thinking perspective. The Building Official will manage all building division functions (building permit issuance, plan check, and building inspections). The position reports to the Community Development Director. The Building Official will assist in integrating the City’s vision, goals, and people strategy with the business strategy of the Community Development Department; managing, planning, and organizing Community Development services, programs, and operations; developing and implementing policy; crafting and accomplishing department and City objectives, goals, and performance metrics within guidelines established by the City Council and City Manager. The Building Official must exercise a high degree of judgment and discretion along with political acumen and an understanding of the needs of the community.

The City is experiencing a high volume of development applications, including residential, commercial, assisted living, and industrial projects. There is also significant interest in downtown revitalization. Some key initiatives on the horizon for the Building Official include:

• Implementation of the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan, which is a top-priority downtown revitalization project that includes mixed-use development and focuses on an attractive, dynamic, and pedestrian-oriented environment
• Participate in developing and implementing a comprehensive land management system
• Leading staff to be innovative, collaborative, develop expertise, excel in community outreach, promote continuous improvement, and continue moving forward in an enthusiastic and professional manner
• Shaping and positively influencing the Community Development Department environment by supporting a culture of collaboration and accountability
• Identification, development, and promotion of innovative strategies and technological solutions to maximize efficient service delivery
• Working across department lines to promote public service efficiencies
• Development and implementation of key performance metrics to measure operational effectiveness, identify areas of success and areas for improvement
• Planning and executing staffing and operational strategies to provide high-quality, cost-effective services to external and internal customers

The City of Dixon is accepting applications to fill one (1) full-time position of Transit Driver/Dispatcher and to establish an eligibility list for future use.  

This position drives a Readi-Ride General Public Paratransit Vehicle (GPPV) on a demand responsive curb-to-curb transit system and assist patrons boarding and leaving the bus, especially the elderly, disabled, and school age children. May also assist in collecting information relating to the operation of the system; receive ride requests and organize the vehicle pick-ups and drop-offs; and, will work closely with the drivers and Transit Supervisor to ensure coordinated efforts. 

REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS:  Applications will be reviewed each week.

Exam Process: A limited number of candidates whose applications indicate that they, among those competing, are better qualified in terms of related education, training and experience will be invited to participate in an interview process (weighted 100%). The most qualified candidates from this process will be placed on an employment eligibility list. Note: the examination process may be changed as deemed necessary. Please do not reply to any emails from CalOpps during this process as they do not come back to our agency.

Employment Processing: Those selected are subject to a 12-month probation period, and may be subject to pre-employment drug testing and fingerprinting. In accordance with Federal law, an employee must provide proof of identity and legal right to work in the United States.

Veteran's Preference Points: Veteran's Preference points will be applied. A PDF copy of the DD214 form must be filed at the time of application.

The City of Dixon is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. Reasonable Accommodation in the application, examination and selection process will be made upon request by calling (707) 678-7000.

THE POSITION
Incumbent will perform sub-professional engineering work in the areas of design, construction, surveying, traffic and land development; to perform office and field duties including drafting, assisting in construction inspection, permit issuance, engineering research and traffic counts. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED & EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Division Manager. Functional or technical supervision may also be provided by professional or management level positions.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.

The City of Livermore is currently accepting applications to fill a Building Inspector I vacancy.  Apply online at www.livermoreca.gov/jobs by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024.

THE POSITION

Under supervision, a Building Inspector I performs detailed inspection of structures for conformance to codes, ordinances, approved plans, calculations, and specification; and other duties as assigned.

Examples of Important and Essential Functions

Field Inspection Functions

Performs building, fire, electrical, plumbing and mechanical inspections of all structures during construction to ensure conformance to City/State codes, ordinances, approved plans, calculations, and specifications, using appropriate safety precautions; checks for setbacks and conformance to zoning regulations; checks signs and fences; investigates complaints; interprets codes, reports violations and hazardous conditions and orders corrections; notifies builders of required changes and makes re- inspections; performs fire prevention inspections and investigations of new and existing structures; and advises the public regarding construction practices and principles.

Administrative Functions

Reviews plans and specifications for the purpose of conducting building inspection work; prepares records, reports and correspondence; utilizes personal computers to perform data entry functions; and may be assigned to assist in the Permit Center, as needed.

Have you ever thought about a career in Transit Dispatching?

•    Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced office environment?
•    Do you love working assisting customers by phone utilizing reservation and scheduling software?
•    Are you empathetic and patient with members of the public, including senior citizens and persons with disabilities?
•    Does transit dispatching sound like something you would like to do?

Then we want to hear from you!
 

Details:

• Part-time regular position, must be willing to work varied hours including operational holidays, Saturdays, early morning hours (from 4:30 a.m.), and/or evenings (until 8:30 p.m.).

• Salary range $20.28 to $25.89 hourly with Excellent Benefits (see below)

This position will receive a four percent (4%) cost of living increase effective April 2024.

• The new salary range effective April 2024, will be $21.09 - $26.93 hourly
• To view the full job description and minimum qualifications, click on the link:

Salary Information:

Planning/Building Technician I: $52,888 - $72,081

Planning/Building Technician II: $58,379 - $79,564

THE POSITION

The Planning/Building Technician provides information and direction to the general public and applicants at the Community Development counter. The current vacancy is within the Building Division, duties include receiving, reviewing, and processing a variety of permits/plans in one or more specialized areas. These positions will primarily work on permits/plans for Building. The Planning/Building Technician assists applicants in the processing and reviewing of applications for building permits by coordinating project approvals through City departments and outside agencies; reviews permit applications, plans, and supporting documents for proper form, completeness, sufficiency of information, conformance with legal standards, and compliance with City requirements; provides information at the public counter, by telephone, or by other means of communication. An example of duties are:

• Assists the public, contractors, and developers with building questions including the building permit process and electronic plan submittals.
• Provides customer service at the public counter, by telephone, or by other means of communication regarding applicable ordinances, regulations, requirements, processes and procedures related to permitting, planning, and City regulations and requirements.
• Assists staff and the public with the review of a variety of building and land development permit applications for accuracy and completeness to ensure conformance with legal standards, and compliance with City requirements; inputs information into the computer system; routes plans and information. 
• Conducts building permit processing; reviews permit applications, plans, specifications, and supporting documents for completeness and compliance with legal standards and City requirements; verifies contractors’ licenses, business licenses, and insurance coverages.
• Calculates permit fees and provides permit estimates; collects fees, and issues permits and receipts; issues building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical permits following established guidelines.
• Coordinates project approvals through City departments and outside agencies to assist applicants; arranges meetings with applicants and City staff to ensure timely processing of permits; monitors the progress of permit approvals.
• Approves various permits, including but not limited to minor residential mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and alterations, as well as portions of swimming pools and spas, residential production permits, and business licenses.      
• Performs related duties as assigned.

To view all the essential duties of this position click here.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A combination of education and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  Note: education may not fully substitute for the required experience unless expressly stated herein. 

Planning/Building Technician I:

Equivalent to graduation from high school;

AND

Two (2) years of full-time administrative or technical experience that involves extensive public contact preferably in the planning, building, or engineering field.

Planning/Building Technician II:

Equivalent to graduation from high school;

AND

Two (2) years of full-time increasingly responsible experience performing duties similar to that of a Planning/Building Technician I with the City of Rocklin.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain and maintain, a valid California Class C Driver License and a satisfactory driving record is required.  Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 
• A Permit Technician Certificate from the International Code Council (ICC) is required within twelve (12) months of appointment.