Job Description

A job description (JD) is the written specification of an open position that employers publish to attract candidates. It typically includes the job title, department, reporting structure, key responsibilities, required and preferred qualifications, salary range (increasingly required by law), benefits, and information about the company culture or values.

For job seekers, the job description is your primary source of intelligence for tailoring your application. It tells you exactly what keywords the ATS will scan for, what the hiring manager considers most important, and what questions you might face in an interview. Read job descriptions carefully and critically — distinguish between hard requirements ("must have 5+ years") and aspirational preferences ("PhD preferred"), as many candidates successfully apply meeting 60-70% of the listed qualifications.

Pay particular attention to the order of requirements and the language used. Items listed first are typically highest priority. Requirements repeated across multiple sections are especially important. Action-oriented language in the responsibilities section ("you will lead," "you will build") gives you insight into the role's scope and autonomy level, which helps you tailor your bullet points and prepare for interviews.