In the realm of digital development, one does not simply stumble upon a Drupal developer; rather, one must embark on a meticulous quest, armed with discerning criteria and deep insight into this specialized field. Here, we shall outline a comprehensive process of identifying, scrutinizing, negotiating with, and eventually securing the services of a fitting Drupal developer for your project. This endeavor entails a keen understanding of Drupal, the open-source content management system (CMS) which has been adopted by numerous organizations due to its scalability, security, and flexibility. A Drupal developer, in essence, is a professional who possesses expert knowledge and proficiency in using this platform to craft, design, and manage websites.

As a starting point, one must delineate the demands of the project. This involves a comprehensive understanding of the desired functionalities, aesthetics, and the user experience that the final product must encapsulate. The identification and ascertainment of these key elements would set the direction of the talent hunt and reduce the risk of miscommunication or misunderstanding down the line.

Yet, in the process of selection, you ought to be aware of the dichotomy that exists within the realm of Drupal developers. Some are more inclined towards front-end development, focusing on HTML, CSS, and JavaScript – the languages responsible for the visual aspects of a website. Others specialize in back-end development, handling the server-side operations with PHP, the primary language in Drupal's DNA. A full-stack developer would be proficient in both areas, but bear in mind the inherent trade-off: while they offer a more rounded skill set, they may not possess the depth of specialization that front-end and back-end developers boast.

Having established the necessary criteria, a more focused search can be initiated. Tread the virtual landscapes of freelance portals, professional networking platforms, and dedicated Drupal communities. Do not shy away from older, traditional methods such as job postings and recruitment agencies either. However, be prepared to adapt your hiring strategy based on the size, budget, and timeline of your project.

As you navigate these waters, look for developers with a substantial portfolio of completed Drupal projects. Do not be dazzled solely by the aesthetics of their work; delve deeper into how they solved problems, how they integrated different functionalities, and how they managed the project's lifecycle. Furthermore, observe their grasp of Drupal's distinct modules and themes, their ability to create custom modules, and their understanding of databases and API integrations.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the developer's familiarity with version control systems, particularly Git, which is instrumental for collaborative development and change tracking. Furthermore, knowledge of automated testing and deployment with tools like Jenkins is highly desirable, as it promotes efficient workflow and high-quality output.

Once candidates have been shortlisted, communication becomes paramount. Gauge their communication skills, responsiveness, and understanding of your project. These soft skills are often as valuable as technical prowess, as they can significantly influence the smooth progression of your project.

Lastly, consider the economics of the situation - the cost-effectiveness of your choice. This is not merely a function of the developer’s hourly rate, but also their efficiency and the value they bring to the project. A cheaper, less experienced developer might seem appealing, but if they take twice as long to complete tasks, the cost advantage quickly dissipates.

In conclusion, securing the right Drupal developer is a complex process that demands a deep understanding of your project, a broad knowledge of Drupal, and a strategic approach to hiring. This endeavor is not merely a task, but an investment in your project's success.