SEM Optimization Specialist - PIQ and Affiliate

|Current USA TODAY Co. Employees- Please ensure you are using our abbreviated process on the internal Careers site by logging into Dayforce through MyApps| USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a diversified media company with expansive reach at the national and local level dedicated to empowering and enriching communities. We seek to inspire, inform, and connect audiences as a sustainable, growth focused media and digital marketing solutions company. Through our trusted brands, including the USA TODAY NETWORK, comprised of the national publication, USA TODAY, and local media organizations, including our network of local properties, in the United States, and Newsquest, a wholly-owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital experiences to audiences and businesses. We deliver high-quality, trusted content with a commitment to balanced, unbiased journalism, where and when consumers want to engage. Our digital marketing solutions brand, LocaliQ, supports small and medium-sized businesses with innovative digital marketing products and solutions. USA TODAY Co. open roles are featured on various external job boards. When applying to a position at USA TODAY Co., you should be completing an application on USA TODAY Co. Careers via Dayforce. Job postings directing you to complete an application on other external sites may not be valid. To connect with us, visit www.usatodayco.com Are you ready to elevate your digital marketing career? Join our high-performing, supportive team as an Optimization Strategist for the Affiliate and Partner channels, where data, creativity, and collaboration drive results. In this role, you will actively manage paid search campaigns (SEM) and optimize organic search (SEO) for our Affiliate and PerformanceIQ clients, helping them excel in the search landscape and convert more leads. We are seeking someone who is passionate about performance marketing and skilled at turning insights into actionable strategies. If you thrive on improving ROI, experimenting with different strategies, and witnessing your optimizations lead to real business growth, this opportunity is for you. Responsibilities: • Manage and optimize paid search (SEM) and SEO campaigns with a strong focus on the automotive industry • Monitor, analyze, and fine-tune campaigns to maximize traffic, leads, calls, and conversions • Collaborate closely with Account Management and Sales teams to develop performance-driven digital strategies • Track KPIs, identify trends, and adjust tactics in real time to boost performance • Troubleshoot and resolve campaign challenges creatively and efficiently • Stay ahead of evolving search trends, algorithms, and technologies Qualifications/Requirements: • 1+ years of experience managing SEM campaigns (SEO experience a plus) • A strong grasp of paid search platforms, conversion tracking, and analytics tools • Data-driven mindset with solid Excel and reporting skills • Ability to communicate strategy clearly to non-technical partners • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and motivated to learn and grow • A collaborative spirit and a passion for helping clients succeed Reasons You'll Enjoy Working Here: • Competitive Pay: $50,000 – $55,000 annually • Fantastic Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company match • Supportive Team Culture: You’ll join a collaborative, encouraging environment that celebrates innovation and shared success • Career Growth: Opportunities to advance, learn new tools, and make a real impact in the automotive digital marketing space • Flexibility & Balance: We value results and collaboration — not micromanagement • Generous MTO Time Off package including Company Paid Holidays • #LI-REMOTE #LOCALiQ #LI-LL The annualized base salary for this role will range between $45,000 and $55,000. Variable compensation is not reflected in these figures and based on the role, may be applicable. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, location, and union representation, if applicable. USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a proud equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce. As such, we will consider all qualified applicants for employment and do not discriminate in connection with employment decisions on the basis of an applicant or employee’s race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, marital status, personal appearance (including height and weight), sexual orientation, family responsibilities, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), education, genetic characteristics or information, political affiliation, military or veteran status or other classifications protected by applicable federal, state and local laws in the jurisdictions where USA TODAY Co. employs employees. In addition, USA TODAY Co., Inc. will provide applicants who require a reasonable accommodation, as a result of an applicant’s disability or religion, to complete this employment application and/or any other process in connection with an individuals’ application for employment with USA TODAY Co., Inc. Applicants who require such accommodation should contact USA TODAY Co., Inc.’s Recruitment Department at [email protected]. Applicants must be authorized to work in the applicable location. Applications from outside these regions will be removed from our system after submission. Apply tot his job