Job Summary
The SEM Consultant is responsible for developing, managing, optimizing, and reporting on paid search campaigns across Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, and other search platforms. This role works closely with account management, analytics, creative, and media teams to drive qualified traffic, conversions, lead generation, and return on advertising spend (ROAS) for clients.
The ideal candidate combines strategic thinking with strong analytical and technical skills and has a proven track record of improving campaign performance through audience targeting, keyword strategy, bidding optimization, and conversion rate analysis.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Planning
- Develop comprehensive SEM strategies aligned with client business objectives.
- Conduct keyword research, competitive analysis, and audience segmentation.
- Build forecasting models and budget recommendations.
- Identify growth opportunities across search, Performance Max, shopping, local, and remarketing campaigns.
- Collaborate with client services and digital media teams on integrated campaign strategies.
Campaign Management
- Build, launch, and manage campaigns within Google Ads and Microsoft Ads platforms.
- Create account structures that support scalability and performance optimization.
- Manage keyword expansion, match-type strategy, negative keywords, and audience targeting.
- Implement and optimize bidding strategies to maximize conversions and efficiency.
- Monitor campaign pacing, spend, and performance against goals.
Analytics & Optimization
- Analyze campaign performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Monitor KPIs including:
- Cost Per Click (CPC)
- Click-Through Rate (CTR)
- Conversion Rate (CVR)
- Cost Per Acquisition (CPA)
- Return on Ad Spend (ROAS)
- Lead Quality
- Perform A/B testing on ad copy, landing pages, and audience strategies.
- Provide recommendations for improving conversion rates and user experience.
- Utilize Google Analytics, GA4, Looker Studio, and other reporting platforms to deliver actionable insights.
Reporting & Client Communication
- Develop recurring performance reports and executive summaries.
- Present campaign results, findings, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and clients.
- Translate technical performance metrics into clear business outcomes.
- Participate in client meetings and strategic planning sessions.
Technical & Tracking Oversight
- Ensure proper implementation of tracking pixels, tags, and conversion events.
- Work with developers and analytics teams to troubleshoot tracking issues.
- Maintain campaign measurement frameworks and attribution models.
- Support integration of CRM and marketing automation platforms where applicable.
Industry Leadership
- Stay current on search engine algorithm updates and platform changes.
- Evaluate emerging SEM tools and technologies.
- Share best practices and provide training to internal teams as needed.
Mentorship
- Mentor and train junior members of the buying team on SEM skills and best practices
Qualifications Required
- 3+ years of hands-on SEM and paid search experience.
- Proven expertise with Google Ads and Microsoft Ads.
- Strong understanding of keyword research, audience targeting, and campaign optimization.
- Experience with:
- Google Analytics 4 (GA4)
- Google Tag Manager
- Looker Studio
- Excel and data analysis tools
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple accounts and budgets.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience within a digital media agency environment.
- Experience managing Performance Max campaigns.
- Knowledge of SEO and conversion rate optimization (CRO).
- Familiarity with CRM platforms such as HubSpot, Salesforce, or similar systems.
- Google Ads Certification and/or Microsoft Advertising Certification.
Key Success Metrics
- Return on Ad Spend (ROAS)
- Cost Per Acquisition (CPA)
- Lead Volume and Quality
- Conversion Rate Improvements
- Campaign Budget Efficiency
- Client Retention and Satisfaction
- Growth in Search-Driven Revenue
Employment Type
- Contract / Consultant
- Fractional Engagement
- Project-Based or Retainer-Based
Company Description
Refuel Agency is the largest provider of Media + Marketing services specializing in and reaching military, teen, college and multicultural niche audiences throughout the United States.