Torrance Municipal Code Art. 20 Probationary Period

(Amended by O-2514; O-2515; O-2520; O-2718; O-2908; O-2985; O-3020)

a) Except as provided in Section 14.5.3., all original and promotional appointments shall be tentative and subject to a probationary period of six (6) months (longer periods of probation may be established for specified classifications by a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and the appropriate recognized employee organization). The initial appointment to employment as a firefighter shall not be deemed complete until a period of probation of one (1) year has elapsed. Promotions to higher rank shall not be deemed complete until a period of probation of one (1) year has elapsed.

b) Permanent employee shall mean an employee who has successfully completed a probationary period and has been retained as hereinafter provided. Where specifically provided for by MOU between Management and the appropriate employee organization, this definition shall include employees appointed to fill positions on a less than full-time basis.

The probationary period shall be regarded as an intrinsic part of the examination process and shall be utilized for closely observing the employee’s work, for securing the most effective adjustment of a new employee to his position, and for eliminating any probationary employee whose performance does not meet the required standards of work. A minimum of six (6) performance evaluations of such employee shall be filed with the Civil Service Commission at equal intervals during the probationary period.

During the probationary period an employee may be rejected at any time by the appointing power without the right of appeal. No person shall be removed from his probationary position without prior approval of the City Manager or his designated representative. Notification of rejection in writing shall be sent to the probationer and a copy filed with the Civil Service Commission.

(Added by O-2514; O-2515; O-2520)

Any employee rejected during the probationary period following a promotional appointment shall be reinstated to the position from which he was promoted unless charges are filed and he is discharged in the manner provided in the Civil Service ordinance and these rules for positions in the classified service.