SEO MANAGER

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: SEO MANAGER

🔹 Company: Marcel Digital

🔹 Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

🔹 Job Type: Full-Time

🔹 Category: Advertising Services

🔹 Date Posted: June 21, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Developing and executing SEO strategies to drive organic traffic and revenue for B2B clients
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated marketing solutions
• Analyzing complex organic search environments to identify growth opportunities
• Implementing technical SEO optimizations and content strategies
• Measuring and reporting on SEO performance and its impact on business outcomes

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a blend of technical SEO expertise, strategic acumen, and content savvy. The ideal candidate will have experience in a B2B agency or demand-gen environment and be comfortable managing multiple projects across industries.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Own organic performance with a revenue mindset, driving SEO and AEO strategies that improve visibility, capture demand, and convert high-intent traffic into leads

✅ Analyze complex organic search environments, identify growth opportunities across the funnel, and implement tailored SEO strategies that align with each client's broader marketing and sales goals

✅ Collaborate across paid media, analytics, and development teams to deliver unified, revenue-driving solutions

✅ Participate in client conversations as an expert and advisor, uncovering the 'why' behind the 'what', aligning search strategies with business objectives, and evolving tactics based on performance and changing market dynamics

✅ Deliver full-spectrum SEO solutions, from deep technical audits to content gap analyses and on-page optimization, blending modern tools, AI enhancements, and manual expertise to create smart, scalable outcomes

✅ Compile insights and reports that inform and inspire action, connecting SEO performance directly to pipeline growth, sales conversations, and strategic goals, helping clients understand and believe in the power of SEO to drive revenue

✅ Lead with curiosity and courage, experimenting with AI, staying ahead of SERP shifts, and pushing SEO and AEO forward for both clients and the agency

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of independence, self-motivation, and the ability to manage multiple projects and clients simultaneously. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to changing priorities and market conditions.

🎯 Required Qualifications

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

Experience: 3+ years of experience in SEO, ideally within a B2B agency or demand-gen environment

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to connect SEO performance with lead gen and revenue outcomes
• Deep knowledge of technical SEO, on/off-page factors, and modern search ecosystems
• Proficiency in tools such as Google Search Console, GA4, Looker Studio, SEMrush, Ahrefs, Screaming Frog, etc.
• Comfort navigating CRMs like HubSpot or Salesforce (a plus)
• Experience using AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini) to support content creation and workflow acceleration
• Strong strategic thinking and storytelling ability - framing SEO success in the language of business
• Independent, self-motivated, and comfortable managing multiple projects across industries

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI-driven SEO tools and strategies
• Familiarity with the Chicago B2B marketing landscape

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving SEO results that translate into meaningful business impact. They will be comfortable working with data, tools, and technology to inform their strategies and will be eager to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the SEO industry.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $120,000 per year (based on experience and industry standards for SEO Managers in Chicago)

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and great benefits package
• Casual, laid-back, and fun work environment
• Autonomy to work independently and solve problems
• Voice in the development process and an environment that encourages learning and growth

Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week), with flexibility for a hybrid work arrangement

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for SEO Managers in Chicago. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience, skills, and the company's internal compensation structure.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Advertising Services

Company Size: 11-50 employees (Mid-size agency with a close-knit, collaborative culture)

Founded: 2003 (Established history with a strong reputation in the Chicago B2B marketing landscape)

Company Description:

• Marcel Digital is an award-winning digital marketing and web development agency based in Chicago
• Specializes in driving measurable growth for B2B organizations through integrated strategies across paid media, SEO, analytics, and web development
• Committed to creating an environment where people can grow, both professionally and personally
• Encourages continuous learning, experimentation, and innovation

Company Specialties:

• Search Engine Marketing
• Facebook Applications
• Conversion Optimization
• Website Development
• Search Engine Optimization
• Paid Search
• Display Advertising
• Mobile Advertising
• Analytics
• Social Media Marketing
• SEO
• CRO
• Umbraco Website Development
• Google Analytics

Company Website: https://www.marceldigital.com

ASSUMPTION: Marcel Digital's mid-size structure allows for close collaboration and mentorship opportunities. The company's focus on growth and innovation creates an environment where employees can make a significant impact and grow their careers.

📊 Role Analysis

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

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Director of SEO

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (a mix of on-site and remote work, with flexibility for candidates based in the United States)

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to take on additional responsibilities and advance within the SEO team
• Chance to work on a diverse range of projects for B2B clients across various industries
• Opportunity to collaborate with cross-functional teams and learn from experts in other disciplines

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a clear path for career growth within the SEO team. The ideal candidate will be eager to take on new challenges, learn from their colleagues, and contribute to the agency's continued success.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid (a mix of on-site and remote work)

Office Location(s): 445 W Erie Street, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60654, US

Geographic Context:

• Chicago, Illinois, United States
• River North neighborhood, known for its vibrant business community and cultural attractions
• Close proximity to public transportation and major highways

Work Schedule: Flexible, with core hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Central Time Zone)

ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balance between on-site collaboration and remote flexibility. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and be able to adapt to changing priorities and market conditions.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Initial phone or video screen with the Director of SEO
• On-site or virtual interview with the SEO team and other stakeholders
• Final interview with the CEO or another senior leader
• Background check and reference check

Key Assessment Areas:

• Technical SEO skills and knowledge
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Communication and presentation skills
• Cultural fit and alignment with Marcel Digital's values

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant SEO experience and skills
• Showcase your understanding of the role and the company by demonstrating your familiarity with Marcel Digital's work and clients
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and cultural fit
• Be ready to discuss your approach to SEO strategies, tools, and industry trends

ATS Keywords: SEO, Technical SEO, Organic Traffic, Revenue Growth, B2B Marketing, Client Management, Strategic Planning, AI Tools, Collaboration, Cross-Functional Teams, Chicago B2B Landscape

ASSUMPTION: The interview process at Marcel Digital is designed to assess both technical skills and cultural fit. The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate their expertise in SEO while also showcasing their ability to work well within the agency's collaborative, dynamic environment.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Google Search Console
• GA4
• Looker Studio
• SEMrush
• Ahrefs
• Screaming Frog
• HubSpot or Salesforce (CRM)
• AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• Collaboration tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft 365)

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with a variety of tools and technologies to streamline their workflow and improve SEO outcomes. They will be eager to learn and adopt new tools as needed to stay ahead of industry trends.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Authenticity
• Integrity
• Accountability
• Insight

Work Style:

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Curious and open to learning
• Adaptable and resilient
• Results-driven and focused on continuous improvement

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you align with Marcel Digital's values, particularly 'authenticity' and 'integrity'?
• How comfortable are you working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and adapting to changing priorities?
• How do you approach learning and incorporating new tools and technologies into your workflow?

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate their alignment with Marcel Digital's values and work style. They will be able to provide specific examples of how their past experiences and behaviors reflect the company's cultural priorities.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple projects and clients simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and time management
• Keeping up with the latest SEO trends and algorithm changes, demanding continuous learning and adaptation
• Balancing client expectations and agency priorities, requiring strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, which may present challenges for those who prefer a more structured or predictable work environment

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be able to thrive in a challenging, dynamic environment and view these potential challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Unlike other SEO roles, this position offers the opportunity to work with a mid-size agency, allowing for closer collaboration and mentorship opportunities
• Marcel Digital's focus on growth and innovation creates an environment where employees can make a significant impact and grow their careers
• This role may require more frequent client interaction and stakeholder management compared to larger agency or in-house SEO positions

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a mid-size agency environment and be eager to take on the challenges and opportunities that come with it.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a comprehensive SEO strategy for a B2B manufacturing client, driving a 30% increase in organic traffic and a 20% increase in leads generated within six months
• Conducting a technical SEO audit for a B2B software company, identifying and addressing critical on-page and off-page issues, resulting in a 45% increase in organic traffic over nine months
• Collaborating with the content team to create a content strategy for a B2B e-commerce client, improving keyword rankings, organic traffic, and conversion rates by 25% within six months

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the candidate's ability to develop and execute SEO strategies that drive meaningful business impact. The ideal candidate will be able to provide similar examples of their past successes and the specific challenges they faced and overcame.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe a time when you had to adapt your SEO strategy due to changing market dynamics or algorithm updates?
• How do you approach collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated marketing solutions?
• Can you provide an example of a time when you had to manage multiple projects or clients simultaneously, and how did you ensure each received the attention they deserved?
• How do you stay up-to-date with the latest SEO trends and tools, and how do you incorporate this knowledge into your strategies?
• Can you describe Marcel Digital's values and how you see yourself aligning with them in this role?

ASSUMPTION: These interview questions are designed to assess the candidate's technical SEO skills, strategic thinking, and cultural fit. The ideal candidate will be able to provide thoughtful, specific examples that demonstrate their expertise and alignment with Marcel Digital's priorities.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through the following link: https://marcel.applytojob.com/apply/iZh5rZA1Zq/SEO-MANAGER
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant SEO experience and skills
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and cultural fit
• Be ready to discuss your approach to SEO strategies, tools, and industry trends
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application

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