This is why job descriptions shouldn't require a hard set of qualifications, but preferences (e.g. strong background in scripting, exposure to database systems,

This is why job descriptions shouldn't require a hard set of qualifications, but preferences (e.g. strong background in scripting, exposure to database systems, comfort using git, deep understanding of object-oriented development). Potentially strong employees don't want to get where they are by lying or stretching the truth.