Requirements on Job Description

Job descriptions are written by people who’ve never done the job. Remember that.

Most JDs are copy-pasted wish lists, not requirements. When you see “10 years of Kubernetes experience” (Kubernetes has only existed since 2014), you’re looking at HR theater, not actual hiring criteria.

What Actually Matters

  1. The 70% Rule

If you can do 70% of what’s listed today and learn the rest in 90 days, apply. The people who get hired aren’t the ones checking every box: they’re the ones who demonstrate they can close the gap fast.

  1. Transferable Skills Beat Tool Specifics

Nobody cares if you’ve used Terraform specifically. They care if you understand infrastructure-as-code principles. Tools change; patterns persist.

  1. Growth Mindset Is a Differentiator

Most candidates fake expertise. Few admit what they don’t know and show a plan to learn it. The second group gets hired.

Reframe the Exercise

Don’t read a JD as a list of demands. Read it as a description of problems the company needs solved. Your job in the application: demonstrate you’ve solved similar problems, regardless of the specific tools.

The Hard Truth

The “perfect candidate” who matches 100% of requirements? They don’t exist. Or if they do, they’re not applying: they’re already employed and overpaid.

Companies know this. They’re fishing for the best available, not the imaginary ideal.

Bottom line: Apply to jobs where you match the spirit, not the letter. The interview is where you prove you can bridge the gap.

FAQ

Q: Should I apply for a DevOps job if I only meet 50% of the requirements?

A: Yes: if you meet the core requirements and can demonstrate the ability to learn. Focus on transferable skills like automation, troubleshooting, and infrastructure concepts. The 70% rule applies: if you can do most of the job and learn the rest quickly, you’re a viable candidate. Companies often prefer someone who can grow into the role over someone who’s overqualified and bored.

Q: How do I address skill gaps in my DevOps job application?

A: Be honest but confident. Acknowledge the gap briefly, then pivot to related experience and your learning plan. Example: “I haven’t used Terraform in production, but I’ve managed infrastructure with CloudFormation and completed hands-on Terraform projects. I’m confident I can get productive within weeks.” Show, don’t just tell: link to personal projects or certifications.

Q: What do hiring managers actually look for in DevOps candidates?

A: Problem-solving ability, operational judgment, and communication skills matter more than specific tool knowledge. Can you debug under pressure? Can you explain technical tradeoffs to non-technical stakeholders? Have you shipped and operated real systems? These qualities predict success better than checking every tool box on the JD.