I AM a good freelance writer, if I say so myself. And my long list of satisfied clients would agree.
I wouldn't even apply for a job paying $35 for 1500 words. Especially if it meant going through multiple interviews to get it.
I'm currently hiring for multiple projects and having the same problems you are, so I know what you mean. But I know why, too. Low pay gets poor results. Unfortunately, I'm hiring on behalf of clients, so I can't raise the rates.