Skip to content
applystead.Start free

Free tool · Runs in your browser

Job posting red flag checker

Paste a job posting to see phrases worth a second look, such as missing pay, wear many hats or unpaid trials. Each finding is a signal to ask about, not a verdict on the employer.

Private. Runs in your browser; nothing you type leaves your device.

Paste the whole posting, including any part about pay, hours and requirements.

How to use it

  1. Paste the whole job posting. Include the title, the duties, the requirements and anything about pay, hours, time off or how hiring works, so the checker can see every phrase it looks for.
  2. Read each signal and its question. Each finding quotes the phrase it spotted and suggests a question to ask. A phrase like fast-paced can mean many things, so the question is how you find out which.
  3. Ask before you commit your time. Bring the questions to a recruiter call or the first interview. Clear, specific answers are a good sign; vague answers are worth weighing before you accept an offer.

Example

What this tool checks:

Related free tools

See all free tools

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

What does the red flag checker look for?

Whether the posting shows any pay; hype words such as rockstar, ninja or guru; wear many hats; fast-paced; work hard, play hard; like a family; other duties as assigned; round-the-clock availability; commission-only pay; unpaid trials; unlimited PTO; and a requirements list of more than 15 bullets.

Does a red flag mean I should not apply?

No. The findings are signals to ask about, not a verdict on the employer. Many good jobs use phrases like fast-paced or other duties as assigned. Each finding comes with a question that helps you learn what the phrase means for this job.

Why does missing pay show up as a flag?

Without a pay range you cannot tell whether the job fits your needs until you ask. The checker looks for a currency amount, a figure with a currency code, a range such as 80k to 95k, or a figure near the word salary, pay or compensation, and suggests raising pay early, before you spend time on interviews.

Is this the same as the job scam checker?

No. This checker looks at how a real job is described: pay, workload and expectations. The job scam checker looks for signs of a fake job, such as fees, check deposits or chat-only interviews. If a posting asks you for money or bank details, use the scam checker.

Is the posting I paste saved or sent?

No. The checker runs in your browser with this page's own script. Nothing you paste is sent to Applystead or anyone else, and nothing is saved after you leave the page.