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Paid Search Specialist in Chicago, IL

Paid Search Specialist Job Description

The paid search specialist develops search engine marketing (SEM) strategies and creates and implements pay-per-click (PPC) ad campaigns. This role demands strong research and analytical skills as well as creativity, IT expertise, versatility and adaptability. PPC specialists must stay attuned to the latest search engine optimization (SEO) trends and strategies and be dedicated to keyword research. Understanding how to implement and manage organic search campaigns, in addition to paid search campaigns, is valued. Basic knowledge of HTML, CSS and JavaScript is typically required for the SEM/PPC specialist role, as is the ability to work with leading SEM software and tools for optimizing and managing paid search ads. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field.

Typical SEM/PPC specialist duties:

Conducting regular keyword research and maintaining a database of keywords to use in SEM/PPC campaigns, which drive web traffic through paid advertisingDeveloping landing pages that engage and retain visitors by working closely with designers, writers and other marketing team members to ensure that all content aligns with SEO strategy and best practicesAnalyzing campaign performance, monitoring competitors’ strategies and adjusting campaigns accordingly to achieve a maximum return on investment

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Salary for Paid Search Specialist in Chicago, IL
78750 - 106250
Low
78750
The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.
Mid
93750
The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.
High
106250
The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialized certifications.
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Our starting salary projections come from a rigorous, multistep process so that our numbers accurately reflect the marketplace. They are based on actual compensation for professionals Robert Half has matched with employers across the country and third-party job posting data from Textkernel that we use to independently validate the salary levels. Starting compensation—pay for someone new to a role—can vary significantly based on a candidate’s skills, experience and certifications, as well as other factors including industry, company size and revenue, and demand for the role. To reflect this variability, we report our salary data in three levels: low, mid and high.