[Shakakai]

I agree with jasonkester, come up with a unique project that uses the technology you want to be hired for. Cut out TV/distractions on week nights and build it out. Use that as a show piece for getting the job you deserve.

Also, try to avoid big job sites like Monster or Dice. If you really want a Java (insert any other technology here) job, find Java bloggers you admire and track down where they work. You should be able to find a number of smaller companies with people you know can teach you a trick or two. With the field narrowed down, try to run into those people at tech meetups and let them know you're in the market. Follow up with comments on their blog posts or joining their conversations on twitter. If you don't come off as a stalker, you should be able to parlay a decent job offer out of it :P