Hey everyone. I wanted to ask when would be an appropriate time to reach out to potential employers? Ideally I'd like to start my job hunt on the early side, but don't want to appear "too early." I have a couple of potential institutions I'd like to contact and am not sure when the best time to do so is.

The second part of my question is a bit of a hot-button topic, but I'll ask anyway. What is truly a fair offer for a well trained graduate, with high surgical numbers and extensive clinic training? Is it fair to expect a full benefits package inclusive of medical and med mal coverage, PTO, etc. from all potential employers? I ask because I've been hearing of some questionable benefits packages (lack there of).....Anyway, as far as base salary, what's a reasonable number for a large private practice, university hospital, and private hospital, respectively? Or, in an ideal world, what SHOULD these numbers be for a new grad to attempt to negotiate?

Thanks in advance!