Search Engine Optimization Manager

EMSC is seeking an SEO Manager to develop and execute organic growth strategies for a portfolio of clients. This role combines strategic thinking with hands‑on implementation. You will identify opportunities to grow organic traffic and improve visibility across traditional search engines and AI‑powered search experiences through content strategy, on‑page optimization, technical SEO, and performance analysis.

Important: This is a hands‑on SEO role. You will be expected to develop strategy and personally execute SEO work—not simply manage vendors, coordinate tasks, or create reports. The ideal candidate enjoys rolling up their sleeves to build content plans, perform on‑page optimizations, conduct research, solve technical SEO issues, and drive measurable organic growth.

You will be responsible for researching, planning, implementing, monitoring, and refining SEO programs for dozens of clients. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to balance multiple priorities while consistently delivering results.

You will work closely with our in‑house team of SEO Content Writers, Web Designers, Web Developers, Account Managers, and Social Media Specialists to ensure every client program is aligned toward common growth goals. You'll also coordinate with third‑party partners when additional SEO deliverables are required.

Responsibilities

Develop SEO‑driven content strategies for a portfolio of clients

Conduct keyword research to identify opportunities that drive rankings, traffic, and leads

Build content plans and content calendars based on business objectives and search demand

Map keywords and topics to existing and future website pages

Collaborate with content writers to ensure content aligns with SEO best practices and client goals

Identify opportunities to improve existing content and expand topical authority

On‑Page SEO

Perform on‑page optimization across client websites

Optimize titles, meta descriptions, headers, internal links, and page structure

Ensure content aligns with target keywords, search intent, and user experience best practices

Implement schema markup and other on‑page enhancements where appropriate

Technical SEO

Monitor and maintain website technical health

Identify technical issues using Google Search Console and SEO auditing tools

Work with developers to resolve crawl, indexing, site speed, structured data, and other technical issues

Track technical recommendations through implementation and resolution

Keyword Research & Tracking

Conduct keyword research based on client priorities and business objectives

Organize keyword sets for reporting and scalability

Group and assign keywords to specific URLs and content initiativesMaintain and improve keyword tracking systems and reporting structures

Audit keyword groups and tags to ensure alignment with client goals

SEO Program Management

Analyze SEO program performance and identify growth opportunitiesCompare performance across industries and client campaigns to identify winning strategiesCreate recommendations and action plans based on performance data

Develop SEO proposals and recommendations for new and existing clients

Design SEO programs that maximize results while remaining within budget constraints

Competitive Research

Analyze competitors to identify ranking opportunities and content gaps

Research industry‑specific SERP trends and ranking factors

Identify strengths and weaknesses within current SEO programs

Recommend new strategies and initiatives based on competitor insights

Local SEO

Optimize Google Business Profiles and other local business listings

Audit NAP consistency and local citation opportunities

Coordinate with Account Managers to gather information required for local SEO initiatives

Reporting & Communication

Track rankings, traffic, visibility, and other key SEO metrics

Present findings, recommendations, and progress to internal teams and clients

Participate in client meetings when needed to explain SEO strategy and performance

Design, implement, and measure SEO experiments and A/B tests

Professional Development

Stay current on SEO, local SEO, AI search, and digital marketing trends

Continuously evaluate new tools, technologies, and processes that improve efficiency and results

Requirements

2+ years of hands‑on SEO experience managing and executing SEO campaigns

Strong understanding of on‑page SEO, content strategy, and keyword research

Demonstrable knowledge of local SEO ranking factors and optimization strategies

Experience with SEO platforms such as SEMrush, Ahrefs, SE Ranking, or similar tools

Experience using Google Analytics and Google Search Console

Ability to analyze SEO performance and translate findings into actionable recommendations

Excellent organizational, analytical, and time management skills

Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously

Strong written and verbal communication skills

A proactive mindset and willingness to take ownership of results

Ability to quickly learn new tools and technologies

Preferred Skills

Technical SEO experience

Basic HTML and CSS knowledge

Experience implementing structured data and Schema.org markup

Link building and digital PR experience

Experience with Google Business Profile optimization

Familiarity with AI search optimization and emerging search technologies

Understanding of challenges faced by local businesses and SMBs

This is a hybrid position for candidates located in the Chicagoland area. Team members are expected to work from our West Town office a minimum of three days per week, with flexibility for remote work on remaining days.

Why Join EMSC?

Work on a diverse portfolio of local and regional businesses

Collaborate with experienced writers, developers, designers, and marketers

Have a direct impact on client growth and success

Gain exposure to emerging SEO and AI search technologies

Join a team that values initiative, continuous learning, and professional growth

Compensation
$80,000 - $100,000 per year

To Apply
If you're passionate about SEO, enjoy both strategy and execution, and instinctively identify opportunities for organic growth when you visit a website, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume along with a brief cover letter explaining your SEO experience, notable results you've achieved, and why you're interested in joining EMSC.

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