[ChuckMcM]

I think this is really key. You have to realize that your employer may be of the type which says "Well anyone can do this CRUD stuff so we'll add him to the pile" and that is probably true, but if you're really capable and passionate you'll be doing the CRUD and learning new stuff too. Talk to people at work about the cool stuff, if you manager is someone you can talk to, talk to them about it. Learn what you can, build things. Find a non-CRUD project that you could do that would make your manager look good, then explain that to them and get their buy in. They are doing it to look good but you'll have solid experience on your resume when you blow town.

The biggest mistake new college grads make in their first job is that the only thing they can do is what their manager told them to do. Sure you have to do that stuff too but if you're smart, figure out a way to get that stuff done and get other fun stuff done. That stuff you get to pick for yourself so it will be, by definition, not CRUD.

[ritratt]

I am stuck with a CRUD (testing) job. Been trying really hard to get out. Learned python. Created many side projects at work to improve current process and personally to expand horizon and geow. But whenever I go for an interview for a development position, they are always like, "We currently need someone who has hands on experience with <relevant technology> development. So we cannot take your candidature further." Really demotivating. Feels like I am gonna be stuck as a tester for life despite having so many ideas and knowledge!

[jyu]

You're probably not applying to the right position, or start using <relevant technology> for side projects. Not sure where you are, but it seems like there are more and more openings for web developers.