We’ve been hiring Drupal professionals for over a decade, and we’ve seen our share of market fluctuations. But nothing compares to what we’re seeing right now. Not during the 2008 recession. Not during the COVID-19 lockdowns. This is the bleakest Drupal job market we’ve ever witnessed.
We recently posted a job opening for experienced Drupal professionals. The requirements were strict but clear: must be physically based in the U.S., eligible to pass a government background check, and preferably Acquia certified. We posted the ad on a Sunday.
Within 48 hours, we had over 200 resumes.
We were flooded — and overwhelmed. So we shut down the posting early and began screening.
We narrowed it down to the top 15 resumes (about 7.5%) and conducted phone interviews. Here’s the shocking part: every single one of those finalists was unemployed or had been given notice of termination. One hundred percent.
What’s Going Wrong?
This isn’t just a numbers problem. It’s a credibility problem. A few trends stood out:
- AI-Generated Resumes Are Backfiring
Several candidates clearly used AI to tailor their resumes to match the job description — but the experience didn’t hold up. Cross-checking against LinkedIn and other platforms revealed inconsistencies and exaggerations. This is a major red flag. When you misrepresent your experience, you don’t just get passed over — you get blacklisted. - Irrelevant or Generic Resumes
We saw resumes that didn’t mention Drupal at all. Not even once. If you’re applying for a Drupal role and fail to mention the primary skill we’re hiring for, you’re not even in the game. - Disregarding Location Requirements
If we say “U.S.-based only,” that means exactly that. Many applicants ignored this, wasting their time and ours.
Tips to Survive — and Thrive — in This Market
If you’re a Drupal professional trying to find your next role, here’s how to rise above the noise:
1. Claim Your Profile on the Drupal Center of Excellence
This community-driven hub is designed to help Drupal professionals stand out, connect with hiring organizations, and get visibility in front of those actively seeking talent. Claiming your profile is free and positions you for real opportunities. Visit drupalcoe.org
2. Earn Acquia Certifications
Acquia certifications are a signal of credibility and commitment. Whether you're a site builder, developer, or architect, earning one (or more) can immediately elevate your status in a crowded field. It's worth the investment.
3. Learn How to Use AI — The Right Way
Don’t let AI write your resume. Learn to use it with integrity. AI can be a powerful tool for writing, troubleshooting, prototyping, and learning — but misusing it to fabricate experience will cost you. Consider taking online courses or attending webinars that teach responsible, effective use of AI in your development workflow.
4. Tailor Without Lying
Yes, you should align your resume with the job description. But do it honestly. Show how your real experience connects to what the role needs. Authenticity goes a long way.
5. Follow Instructions
If a job post says "U.S. only," then don't apply unless you're U.S.-based. If it says “Drupal experience required,” then highlight that experience up front. Ignoring clear requirements sends the message that you can’t or won’t follow directions — not a good look for any job, especially government work.
This is a tough market, no doubt. But there are still opportunities for those who are skilled, ethical, and proactive. Take the time to improve your profile, stay honest, and commit to continued growth — and you’ll rise to the top when the right opportunity comes.
– Blake Newman
Founder, Drupal Center of Excellence