"Wtf do I do to actually put an ostensibly useful skill to actual use?"
I wish I could tell you. I have a job as a developer and it sucks (at least it pays somewhat ok). I don't get to use any real skills. All the work is bullshit that nobody else wants to do.
Maybe try switching to different tech or different types of companies? I plan to switch from my current team to something else. Not sure what I'll end up doing. It looks like there's not a lot of opportunity out there for me, so it will probably take a long time.
That's generally how I felt in some of my previous positions. There was no point to the work, I never met the customers, but at least it was technically interesting. My manual labour job is much more rewarding honestly. Maybe if I land something I'll keep an extra part time gig around to keep me sane.
I wish I could tell you. I have a job as a developer and it sucks (at least it pays somewhat ok). I don't get to use any real skills. All the work is bullshit that nobody else wants to do.
Maybe try switching to different tech or different types of companies? I plan to switch from my current team to something else. Not sure what I'll end up doing. It looks like there's not a lot of opportunity out there for me, so it will probably take a long time.