Paid Search Specialist

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Paid Search Specialist

🔹 Company: Prophet

🔹 Location: Chicago, Austin

🔹 Job Type: Hybrid (3 days in office)

🔹 Category: Marketing

🔹 Date Posted: 2025-04-22

🔹 Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)

🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Developing, managing, and optimizing paid search campaigns across Google Ads and Microsoft Ads to drive measurable performance outcomes for clients.
• Conducting performance analysis using tools like Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, and GA4 to surface insights and guide optimizations.
• Identifying growth opportunities through competitive research, keyword research, market trends, and search behavior shifts.
• Executing regular A/B testing of ads, audiences, extensions, and landing page experiences to improve campaign performance.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date conversion tracking and tagging, with a strong understanding of platform pixels and GTM implementation.
• Collaborating cross-functionally with media, analytics, and client strategy teams to ensure integrated campaign execution.
• Proactively communicating campaign performance, opportunities, and risks to stakeholders.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic and execution-focused mindset, with a deep understanding of the search landscape, campaign management, and a passion for continuous improvement through data and experimentation.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Develop and execute paid search strategies aligned to client goals and KPIs.

✅ Structure, launch, and manage full-funnel search campaigns, from keyword research and audience targeting to ad copywriting and bidding strategies.

✅ Conduct performance analysis using tools like Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, and GA4 to identify trends and optimize campaigns.

✅ Identify growth opportunities through competitive research, keyword research, market trends, and search behavior shifts.

✅ Execute regular A/B testing of ads, audiences, extensions, and landing page experiences to improve campaign performance.

✅ Maintain campaign pacing, budget alignment, and forecasting across multiple client accounts.

✅ Write compelling and high-performing ad copy tailored to specific audiences and funnels.

✅ Perform in-depth audits of existing paid search campaigns and make data-driven recommendations for improvement.

✅ Collaborate cross-functionally with media, analytics, and client strategy teams to ensure integrated campaign execution.

✅ Maintain accurate and up-to-date conversion tracking and tagging, with a strong understanding of platform pixels and GTM implementation.

✅ Proactively communicate campaign performance, opportunities, and risks to stakeholders.

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have a proven track record in managing B2B and/or B2C paid search campaigns with performance KPIs such as CPA, ROAS, and lead volume. They will also have experience with current paid search capabilities, including Responsive Search Ads, Audience targeting, Campaign strategies, Smart Bidding, and PMax understanding.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

Experience: 3+ years of hands-on experience managing paid search campaigns in Google Ads and Microsoft Ads

Required Skills:

• Proven success managing B2B and/or B2C paid search campaigns with performance KPIs (e.g., CPA, ROAS, lead volume)
• Strong copywriting skills tailored to search intent and funnel stage
• Advanced knowledge of current paid search capabilities (e.g., Responsive Search Ads, Audience targeting, Campaign strategies, Smart Bidding, PMax understanding)
• Proficiency in Google Analytics 4, conversion tracking setup, and UTM strategy
• Strong Excel/Sheets skills (pivot tables, lookups, formulas for performance insights)
• Analytical mindset with a passion for testing and optimization
• Excellent attention to detail, project management, and communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced agency or multi-client environment

Preferred Skills:

• Agency experience
• Familiarity with Looker Studio, SA360, Datorama, or other reporting platforms
• Understanding of attribution modeling, first-party data strategies, and privacy-compliant targeting

ASSUMPTION: While a degree is preferred, relevant experience and a strong portfolio may be considered in lieu of a degree. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of the paid search landscape, campaign management, and a passion for continuous improvement through data and experimentation.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $75,000 - $90,000 (USD)

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Flexible work arrangements (hybrid remote/office schedule)
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee referral bonuses

Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week)

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles and experience levels. The final offer may vary based on the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Business Consulting and Services

Company Size: 501-1,000 employees

Founded: 2005

Company Description:

• Prophet is the Uncommon Growth Company, accelerating impact for business and marketing leaders through consulting, experience, and creative services.
• With 15 global offices and 500+ strategists, analysts, creatives, marketers, digital experts, and change agents, Prophet has worked with the world’s most successful companies, including CVS Health, Home Depot, Marriott, Netflix, Electrolux, and UBS.
• Their teams partner with clients from strategy to in-market execution, driving lasting impact and helping move society forward.

Company Specialties:

• Business growth
• Marketing strategy
• Brand strategy
• Customer experience
• Digital transformation
• Organizational transformation
• Innovation
• Strategy
• Digital strategy
• Consultancy
• DTC consulting
• Customer experience consulting
• Growth consulting
• Growth acceleration
• And culture transformation

Company Website: www.prophet.com

ASSUMPTION: Prophet is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build a firm of many voices. They are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All employment, promotion, and evaluation decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Paid Media Manager or similar role within the agency or client organization.

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days in office)

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential career progression into senior roles within the paid media team or broader marketing and strategy functions within the company.
• Opportunities to work on diverse client projects and gain exposure to various industries and markets.
• Chances to collaborate with and learn from senior team members and industry experts.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic and fast-paced agency environment. Candidates should be proactive in seeking out learning opportunities and taking on new challenges to advance their careers.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office spaces in downtown Chicago and Austin

Office Location(s): 564 W Randolph St, Suite 700, Chicago, IL 60661, US and 1115 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30318, US

Geographic Context:

• Chicago: A major global city with a diverse economy, offering numerous cultural attractions and a vibrant tech industry.
• Austin: A rapidly growing tech hub with a strong startup scene, known for its creative and innovative culture.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (with flexibility for hybrid work arrangement)

ASSUMPTION: Both Chicago and Austin offer vibrant urban environments with a mix of historic and modern architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving cultural scenes. The office locations are conveniently situated in downtown areas, providing easy access to public transportation and amenities.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission through the provided link
• Phone or video screen with the hiring manager or a member of the HR team
• In-depth phone or video interview with the Paid Media Manager or a senior team member
• Final in-person or video interview with the Director of Paid Media or another senior leader

Key Assessment Areas:

• Paid search campaign management experience
• Understanding of current paid search capabilities and trends
• Analytical skills and data-driven decision-making
• Communication and presentation skills
• Cultural fit and alignment with Prophet's values

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role.
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, campaign management experience, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Brush up on your knowledge of current paid search trends and best practices.

ATS Keywords: Paid Search, Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, Campaign Management, Performance Analysis, A/B Testing, Conversion Tracking, Google Analytics, Excel, Data-Driven Decisions, Hybrid Work, Chicago, Austin

ASSUMPTION: Prophet's interview process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, cultural fit, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced agency environment. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong understanding of paid search campaign management, analytical skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

🛠 Tools & Technologies

• Google Ads
• Microsoft Ads
• Google Analytics 4
• Excel/Sheets
• Looker Studio (or similar reporting platforms)
• GTM (Google Tag Manager)
• Google Ads Editor
• Microsoft Advertising

ASSUMPTION: While proficiency in these tools is preferred, candidates should be open to learning and adapting to new technologies as needed for the role.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Growth-minded
• Collaborative
• Inclusive
• Curious
• Impact-driven

Work Style:

• Fast-paced and dynamic
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Data-driven and analytical
• Creative and innovative
• Results-focused

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you approach continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices?
• Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in a paid search campaign or strategy?
• How do you prioritize and manage multiple client accounts and projects simultaneously?

ASSUMPTION: Prophet values candidates who are passionate about growth, collaborative, and results-driven. They should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and be open to learning and adapting to new tools and technologies.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple client accounts and campaigns simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and time management.
• Keeping up with the latest trends and best practices in the fast-evolving paid search landscape.
• Working in a dynamic agency environment with shifting priorities and tight deadlines.
• Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will be proactive in managing their workload, staying informed about industry trends, and communicating effectively with team members and clients. They should also be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and adaptable to change.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Paid Search Manager: This role may involve more strategic decision-making and team leadership, with less hands-on campaign management.
• PPC/SEM Specialist: This role may focus more on search engine marketing (SEM) and may not include as much campaign management or optimization experience.
• Digital Marketing Manager: This role may oversee a broader range of digital marketing channels and may not require the same level of paid search campaign management experience.

ASSUMPTION: The Paid Search Specialist role requires a unique blend of technical skills, campaign management experience, and analytical thinking. While there may be some overlap with other digital marketing roles, this position is distinct in its focus on paid search campaign strategy, execution, and optimization.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a full-funnel paid search campaign for a B2B SaaS client, driving measurable lead volume and pipeline growth.
• Conducting a comprehensive audit of an existing paid search campaign for a B2C retail client, identifying optimization opportunities and implementing data-driven recommendations.
• Managing a paid search campaign for a non-profit organization, driving awareness and engagement for a critical social cause.

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse range of paid search campaign management experiences and the impactful work that successful candidates in this role can expect to deliver.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• What are the most significant challenges facing the paid search team currently, and how can this role help address them?
• How does Prophet support the professional development and growth of its paid search team members?
• Can you describe a recent paid search campaign that the team found particularly challenging or rewarding, and what lessons were learned from it?
• How does Prophet approach collaboration and knowledge-sharing between different teams and departments within the agency?
• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?

ASSUMPTION: These interview questions are designed to help candidates better understand the role's responsibilities, the team's dynamics, and Prophet's approach to professional development and growth.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through the provided link: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/prophet/jobs/4556563005
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role.
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, campaign management experience, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Brush up on your knowledge of current paid search trends and best practices.
• Follow up with the hiring manager or HR team after your initial application to express your interest in the role and inquire about next steps in the interview process.

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.