How to read a job description
Separate real requirements from wishlists, and spot the warning signs before you apply.
4 نوفمبر 2026
A typical JD, decoded
Senior Backend Engineer
5+ years building production services
Often flexible. Strong work at 4 years can still be worth an application.
Must have: Go or Java, PostgreSQL, AWS
The real filter. These are what you will be screened on.
Nice to have: Kafka, Kubernetes, Terraform
A wishlist. You do not need all of it.
You will own services end to end, including on-call
Ask how often the rotation runs and how it is paid.
Fast-paced, wear many hats, rockstar mindset
Ask about team size and working hours.
Competitive salary
No range stated. Ask early so nobody wastes time.
Should you apply? A 60-second check
1.Must-haves
You meet most of them, or can show close experience.
2.Location and visa
You can legally work there, or they sponsor.
3.Level
The scope matches what you have actually done.
4.Apply
Tailor your CV to the must-haves.
Green flags and red flags
Red flags
- Asks you to pay for a visa, training or a medical
- Dozens of unrelated technologies listed
- No company name or official website
- Only a personal email or WhatsApp number to apply
Green flags
- Names the team and the product
- Separates must-have from nice-to-have
- States a salary range
- Describes the interview process
Save the JD when you apply. Postings disappear, and you will want the exact wording before the interview.