Paid Media Strategist (Search)

Dirigo Collective Paid Search Strategist Portland, ME·Full time Apply for Paid Search Strategist The Paid Search Strategist is responsible for executing and optimizing paid search campaigns that translate intent into meaningful results. Working closely with media account strategists and our head of strategy, this role combines hands‑on platform management with performance analysis and strategic thinking ensuring search efforts are efficient, transparent, and aligned with Campfire’s values‑driven approach to media. Dirigo Collective is a boutique consulting agency at the intersection of content and performance marketing. From marketing strategy to developing performance content and strategic media amplification, our belief is that actions speak louder than words. We work to understand and activate the conscientious consumer and design ideas to improve the world for the common good. Description Paid Search Strategist Location: Hybrid 3 Days In-Office Portland, ME Employment Type: Full-time Description Campfire Consulting is a media strategy agency built on purpose, transparency, and performance. As a certified B Corp and 1% for the Planet member, we partner with brands and organizations that care deeply about how their message shows up in the world and how their media dollars move both their business and our culture forward. At Campfire, paid search isn’t just about capturing demand. It’s about understanding intent and respecting the moment someone raises their hand. We’re looking for a Paid Search Strategist who loves the mechanics of search, but also understands the bigger picture: how intent, messaging, budgets, platforms, and data connect across the full media ecosystem. This role is both hands‑on and thoughtful. You’ll be in‑platform daily, turning strategy into action and performance into insight the team can stand behind. You’ll report into our managing director and collaborate closely with our paid media account strategists and head of strategy. This is a role for someone who sweats the details, asks good questions, and takes pride in making campaigns better week after week—not just bigger. What You’ll Do Execute, manage, and optimize paid search campaigns across Google Ads and Microsoft/Bing Ads Analyze performance data regularly and translate it into clear insights, hypotheses, and next steps Act as a “boots‑on‑the‑ground” search expert, proactively flagging opportunities, risks, and performance shifts Collaborate with media strategists and account leads to ensure search aligns with broader channel strategy Support reporting and performance storytelling—helping explain what’s happening and why it matters Participate in regular check‑ins with search leadership to review monthly and quarterly trends across accounts Assist with onboarding and mentoring newer team members as the search team grows Support projects beyond your core accounts when needed—we operate as one team, not silos How We Measure Success Thoughtful optimizations that improve efficiency and clarity Strong communication with strategists and account leads Fewer surprises, earlier insights, and better forecasting Campaigns that perform well and are easy to explain to clients A consistent bias toward learning, testing, and improvement—not shortcuts What We’re Looking For 2+ years of experience in a paid search, SEM, biddable media, or marketing analyst role in an advertising agency Hands‑on experience managing Google Ads and Microsoft/Bing Ads Comfort working in GA4 and connecting platform performance to on‑site behavior Strong working knowledge of Excel and Google Sheets for analysis, pacing, and reporting A genuine curiosity about performance. You don’t just look at numbers you interrogate them Interest in media trends, business, and how people actually search and make decisions Google Ads and/or Microsoft Advertising certifications are a plus Previous exposure to SEO or content strategy is helpful, but not required as campfire does not offer SEO services. How You Show Up Meticulous and organized. You notice the things others miss Thoughtful and collaborative. You enjoy working alongside strategists, not in isolation Calm under pressure. You can make smart calls in deadline‑driven situations Self‑motivated, but not a lone wolf. You ask questions, share learnings, and contribute to the team’s growth Grounded and professional, with a bias toward doing the work right You’ll have real ownership over your accounts, not just tasks, but decisions. We invest in the right tools, reporting, and realistic timelines so the work can be done well. We’re not afraid to push back on unrealistic expectations. We believe good search work starts with a hypothesis, not a shortcut. If you’re looking for a role where “set it and forget it” is the norm, this won’t be the right fit. We believe in taking care of our people so they can take care of the work. Benefits include: Hybrid work environment with three days in our Portland, ME office (T‑TH) with remote or in‑office Mondays/Fridays Flexible PTO and company holidays, including a paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s 401(k) with company match Paid volunteer time to support causes you care about Access to merch from our purpose‑driven shop and discounts for family and friends Profit‑sharing opportunities based on agency performance Parental leave and flexible schedules for caregivers A culture that values people first—not just performance metrics Why Campfire We believe media matters not just for results, but for people, communities, and culture. We care deeply about where ads run, how platforms operate, and the long‑term trust between brands and audiences. If you’re excited by the craft of paid search and the responsibility that comes with it, you’ll feel at home here. To Apply Send us your resume and a short note about why this role feels like the right next step for you. Bonus if you can share an example of a campaign you improved through testing, insight, or persistence not just budget. Equity & Inclusion At Campfire, we’re building a team that reflects the world we want to live in. We do not use AI to scan or filter resumes and every application is reviewed by a real person. We encourage people from all backgrounds and identities to apply, especially those historically underrepresented in media and advertising. We do not evaluate candidates based on gender identity, race, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other protected status. Period. We care about who you are, how you think, and the values you bring to the work. #J-18808-Ljbffr