[bottlerocket]

I'd agree with your theory. Early this summer interviewing for 2 nearly identical positions I was told from one I was too technical, they want someone more design-focused; and I was too design focused, they want someone more technical from the other. Both positions are still open.

Assuming I didn't completely tank both interviews, I got the sense in feedback afterwards they both wanted a magical front end/back end/ designer dynamo and are holding out/hoping for that person to apply.

I think companies initially define a FED role they need, and then in interviews find everyone has slightly different but overlapping skillsets/specialties. Someone says 'hey wouldn't it be nice if we could find a dev that has all these" and spin their wheels endlessly searching for the unicorn rather than hire 2 complimentary people. Especially when they're already pushing their budget limits.