Search Engine Optimization Manager

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 initiatives
Maintain 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 opportunities
Compare performance across industries and client campaigns to identify winning strategies
Create 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

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