Job descriptions are wish lists, not requirements.
What "required" means:
- "+ years experience" → They might take - with strong skills
- "CS degree required" → Sometimes negotiable with portfolio
- "Expert in X" → Often means "has used X"
What's required:
- Specific certifications (if mentioned)
- Legal requirements (work authorization)
- Core technical skills repeated multiple times
Rule of thumb: If you meet -% of the requirements, apply anyway. The worst outcome is a rejection you were already expecting.
Career Changer Tip: "Junior" roles asking for + years are poorly written. Apply anyway.