Senior Search Strategist

USA TODAY Network

. Develop and execute SEM and paid search strategies aligned with client goals .

Posted 10/30/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesSenior💰 $70,000 - $85,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expert-level proficiency in SEM and paid search strategies, with a strong focus on campaign optimization, performance analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. Capable of leveraging analytics tools and consumer insights to drive data-driven decisions and maximize ROI.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Expert-Level SEM ExperienceGoogle Ads ProficiencyPPC Campaign ManagementAdvanced Analytics SkillsCross-Functional Collaboration

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

SEM Strategy DevelopmentKeyword ResearchAd CopywritingBid OptimizationPerformance TrackingA/B TestingData-Driven Decision MakingGoogle AnalyticsGoogle Data StudioMicrosoft Excel

Soft Skills

Exceptional Communication SkillsAttention to DetailStrong Time ManagementOrganizational SkillsAbility to Lead Discussions

Tools & Technologies

Google AdsGoogle AnalyticsGoogle Data StudioInternal SoftwareReporting Platforms

Industry Keywords

Digital MarketingPaid SearchConsumer InsightsAdvertising StrategyAgency Environment

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and execute SEM and paid search strategies aligned with client goals
Conduct keyword research for organic and paid search campaigns
Oversee paid search campaigns, including budget management, ad copywriting, bid optimization, and performance tracking
Monitor and analyze performance using Google Analytics, Google Ads, and internal software
Provide regular reports and insights to internal and external stakeholders
Stay current with search marketing trends, algorithm updates, and best practices
Conduct competitive analysis
Collaborate with web development and UX teams to optimize landing pages and user experiences
Manage search marketing budgets to maximize ROI
Foster cross-functional collaboration with sales, post-sales, creative, data science, and customer experience teams
Identify improvement areas, conduct A/B testing, and implement optimization strategies
Advise on campaign strategy, analyze performance, and recommend modifications to achieve benchmarks
Plan and coordinate client and internal meetings to share strategic recommendations and campaign performance stories
Partner with Data Science on campaign performance reporting
Develop and facilitate training on evolving digital marketing concepts
Advise or construct Search proposals for new brands and RFPs
Own strategic client relationship elements as an individual contributor with no direct reports

Requirements

What you’ll need

Expert-level applied experience in SEM
Advanced knowledge of shopping ads and paid search ads outside search engine platforms, such as Yelp and Amazon
Skills spanning advertising strategy, project management, technology, attention to detail, consumer insights, analytics, and implementation of data-driven decisions
5+ years of experience in the digital space, in an agency environment, or in-house equivalent
5+ years of hands-on SEM optimization experience, including building PPC campaigns from the ground up and managing them directly
In-depth knowledge of Google Ad Platform
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including communicating complex digital/search concepts
Expert knowledge and understanding of SEM, including search impacts on social, email marketing, and display
Understanding of new media consumer behaviors and trends
Knowledge of Google Data Studio and/or other reporting platforms
Ability to determine advertising story from metrics
Ability to distill information within Microsoft Excel
Strong time management and organizational skills
Ability to lead strategic recommendation or campaign performance discussions in critical meetings
Ability to collaborate cross-functionally and manage shifting priorities