📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: SEO Strategist
🔹 Company: Ruffalo Noel Levitz
🔹 Location: Remote (Anywhere, US)
🔹 Job Type: Full-time
🔹 Category: Marketing
🔹 Date Posted: April 10, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)
🔹 Remote Status: Remote (Solely)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing organic search strategies
- Conducting keyword research and competitor analysis
- Performing website audits and identifying optimization opportunities
- Delivering regular performance reports and presenting findings
- Collaborating with internal teams and external partners to drive SEO results
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong balance of technical SEO skills and client-facing communication. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working independently and in a team environment.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Review and analyze client sites for SEO improvements and optimizations
✅ Prepare and deliver detailed strategy reports and presentations
✅ Identify powerful keywords and develop link building strategies
✅ Analyze competitors' SEO techniques and integrate insights into strategies
✅ Compile and present SEO guidelines and best practices
✅ Collaborate with internal teams, external partners, and vendors to deliver organic strategies that drive quality traffic, improve conversions, and increase overall performance
✅ Interpret research and provide thought leadership that translates brand marketing objectives into effective SEO strategies
✅ Research and implement new techniques and technologies relevant to partners' SEO and content development campaigns
✅ Work closely with content writers to align strategy and content development with campus partners
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, hands-on execution, and client management. The ideal candidate will be comfortable wearing multiple hats and adapting to changing priorities.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in marketing or a related field
Experience: 2+ years of experience in search engine optimization, technical audits, Google Analytics, and overall marketing
Required Skills:
- Proficient in Microsoft Office suite
- Proficient in using Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and other SEO tools (e.g., BrightEdge, SEMrush, Ahrefs)
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Contemporary understanding of search engine ranking factors and strategies
- Ability to work independently in a remote environment
Preferred Skills:
- Higher education, non-profit, or service sector experience
ASSUMPTION: While a degree in marketing is preferred, candidates with relevant experience and a strong portfolio may be considered.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 per year (Estimated based on industry standards for mid-level SEO roles in the US)
Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
- Employee assistance program
- Tuition reimbursement
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week), with flexible scheduling and the ability to work remotely
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and skills. Benefits are subject to change and may be confirmed during the interview process.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Higher Education
Company Size: Medium (501-1,000 employees)
Founded: 1979 (as Ruffalo & Associates)
Company Description:
- Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL) is the leading provider of higher education enrollment management, student success, and fundraising solutions.
- The company offers a range of services, including enrollment management, student success, fundraising, and marketing solutions.
- RNL serves over 2,000 colleges and universities worldwide, helping them to enroll the students they want, help more students graduate and succeed, and build lifelong relationships with donors.
Company Specialties:
- Enrollment Management
- Fundraising Management
- Student Success
- Retention
- Planned Giving
- Marketing
- Financial Aid Services
- Software
- Engagement
- Telefundraising
- Remote Engagement
- Online Program Management (OPM)
- Online Program Enablement (OPE)
Company Website: http://www.RuffaloNL.com
ASSUMPTION: RNL's extensive experience and expertise in the higher education industry make it an attractive employer for candidates interested in this sector.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level (2-5 years of experience)
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Director of SEO and works closely with the Client Solutions team.
Work Arrangement: Remote (Solely), with the ability to work from anywhere in the US.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to advance to a senior-level role within the SEO team or take on a management position within the Client Solutions team.
- Opportunities to work on diverse projects and gain exposure to various aspects of the business.
- Chance to learn from and collaborate with experienced professionals in the higher education industry.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within a well-established organization.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Remote (Solely)
Office Location(s): Anywhere in the US
Geographic Context:
- The US has a diverse range of higher education institutions, offering various opportunities for SEO strategists to work on unique projects.
- The remote work arrangement allows for flexibility and the ability to work from any location with a reliable internet connection.
- The company's headquarters are in Cedar Rapids, IA, but the role does not require frequent travel to this location.
Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week), with flexible scheduling and the ability to work remotely
ASSUMPTION: The remote work environment requires self-motivation, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage time effectively.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Phone or video screen with the hiring manager
- Technical assessment or case study
- Final interview with the SEO team and/or other stakeholders
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical SEO skills and knowledge
- Problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking
- Communication and presentation skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with company values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant SEO experience and skills.
- Include specific examples of your SEO successes and the impact you've made in previous roles.
- Prepare for the technical assessment or case study by brushing up on your SEO knowledge and practicing your problem-solving skills.
- Research the company and its clients to demonstrate your understanding of the higher education industry and RNL's unique offerings.
ATS Keywords: SEO, Technical SEO, Keyword Research, Website Auditing, Performance Reporting, Link Building, Competitor Analysis, Content Strategy, Google Analytics, Google Search Console, BrightEdge, SEMrush, Ahrefs, Problem Solving, Collaboration, Communication
ASSUMPTION: The interview process may vary depending on the candidate's experience and the specific needs of the role. It is essential to be prepared for a range of interview formats and assessments.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Google Analytics
- Google Search Console
- BrightEdge
- SEMrush
- Ahrefs
- Microsoft Office Suite
- PowerPoint
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience with the listed tools and be comfortable learning new platforms as needed.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Inspired and relevant engagement
- Innovative solutions
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Excellence in all we do
- Integrity and respect
Work Style:
- Results-driven and focused on delivering exceptional outcomes
- Collaborative and team-oriented, with a strong emphasis on internal communication
- Adaptable and responsive to change, with a willingness to learn and grow
- Passionate about higher education and committed to helping colleges and universities succeed
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have a strong understanding of search engine ranking factors and strategies to improve SERP performance?
- Are you comfortable working independently and managing your time effectively in a remote work environment?
- Do you have excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who align with RNL's values and work style will be more likely to succeed in this role and contribute to the company's mission.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- The role may require working with tight deadlines and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- The remote work environment may present unique challenges, such as maintaining work-life balance and staying connected with colleagues.
- Working with clients in the higher education industry may require a deep understanding of the sector and its unique dynamics.
- The SEO landscape is constantly evolving, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities and demands.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role differs from other SEO strategist positions in its focus on the higher education industry and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents.
- Compared to other industries, higher education SEO may require a deeper understanding of the specific needs and goals of each institution and its target audience.
- Career paths in higher education SEO may vary depending on the candidate's interests and the specific opportunities available within the organization.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in higher education SEO or a strong understanding of the industry may be better equipped to succeed in this role.
📝 Sample Projects
- Conducting a comprehensive SEO audit of a university's website and developing a strategic plan to improve organic search performance
- Identifying high-value keywords and integrating them into content strategies for graduate and online enrollment campaigns
- Analyzing competitor SEO strategies and identifying opportunities to differentiate a client's approach and gain a competitive advantage
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the range of responsibilities and the strategic nature of the SEO strategist role at RNL.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most significant SEO challenges facing higher education institutions today, and how does this role address them?
- How does the SEO team collaborate with other departments, such as content and marketing, to ensure consistent and effective SEO strategies?
- What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the SEO team and the broader Client Solutions team?
- How does RNL support work-life balance for remote employees, and what resources are available to help manage remote work effectively?
- What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure the success of SEO strategies, and how are they tracked and reported?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and provides valuable insights into the company culture and work environment.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant SEO experience and skills, using the ATS keywords provided.
- Prepare for the technical assessment or case study by brushing up on your SEO knowledge and practicing your problem-solving skills.
- Research the company and its clients to demonstrate your understanding of the higher education industry and RNL's unique offerings.
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
