Search Engine Optimization Manager

Position Overview

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

Content Strategy & Planning

• 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

Work Environment

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.