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Search Engine Marketing Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Marketing Coordinator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$42K - $58K/yr

Digital & Marketing Technology * Assist in managing the website, ensuring content remains fresh, engaging, and optimized for SEO. * Utilize HubSpot and other automation tools to manage lead flows ...

Marketing Coordinator

Cedar Rapids, IA

$42K - $58K/yr

Digital & Marketing Technology * Assist in managing the website, ensuring content remains fresh, engaging, and optimized for SEO. * Utilize HubSpot and other automation tools to manage lead flows ...

Successfully manage day-to-day client interactions and seek out opportunities to increase customer ... with SEO and SEM, including strategy development, implementation and monitoring Knowledge of ...

Manage and optimize digital marketing channels and campaigns * Enhance website performance through SEO and content optimization * Create and distribute engaging content across social media, blogs ...

Successfully manage day-to-day client interactions and seek out opportunities to increase customer ... Familiar with SEO and SEM, including strategy development, implementation and monitoring

Perform inclusion analyses using optical microscope and SEM/EDS to help develop optimal practices for ladle refining process. * Perform raw material testing to ensure conformity of vendor materials ...

Showing results 21-40

Search Engine Marketing Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$39.4K

$69.2K

$99.1K

How much do search engine marketing manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for search engine marketing manager in Iowa is $69,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $78,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Search Engine Marketing Manager do?

A Search Engine Marketing Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing a company's paid search advertising campaigns, such as those on Google Ads or Bing Ads. Their main goal is to maximize the return on investment (ROI) by increasing website traffic and conversions through paid search strategies. This involves keyword research, ad copywriting, bidding strategies, performance analysis, and ongoing campaign optimization. They often work closely with other marketing professionals to align SEM efforts with overall business objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Search Engine Marketing Manager?

To thrive as a Search Engine Marketing Manager, you need expertise in digital marketing, data analysis, and campaign strategy, often backed by a degree in marketing or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Google Ads, Bing Ads, Google Analytics, and various bid management platforms is crucial, and certifications like Google Ads certification are commonly expected. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and excellent communication skills help you design effective campaigns and collaborate across teams. These skills are essential for optimizing ad performance, driving ROI, and maintaining a competitive edge in online marketing.

How does a Search Engine Marketing Manager typically collaborate with other teams to achieve campaign goals?

A Search Engine Marketing Manager regularly works with cross-functional teams such as content creators, graphic designers, web developers, and data analysts. This collaboration ensures that ad copy and landing pages are optimized for both user experience and campaign performance. Additionally, SEM Managers align with marketing strategists to coordinate promotional calendars and share insights from campaign data. Open communication and teamwork are essential for quickly iterating on strategies and maximizing return on ad spend.

What is the difference between Search Engine Marketing Manager vs Digital Marketing Specialist?

AspectSearch Engine Marketing ManagerDigital Marketing Specialist
CredentialsRelevant certifications (Google Ads, SEM certifications), bachelor's degree in marketing or related fieldSimilar certifications, bachelor's degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentFocus on paid search campaigns, SEM strategy, analyticsBroader digital marketing tasks including social media, content, SEO
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in advertising agencies, e-commerce, tech companiesUsed across various industries for overall digital marketing roles
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for specialization in paid searchBroader role, less focused on SEM

The Search Engine Marketing Manager specializes in managing paid search campaigns and SEM strategies, requiring specific certifications and experience. In contrast, a Digital Marketing Specialist handles a wider range of digital marketing activities, including SEO, social media, and content marketing. Both roles often overlap but serve different strategic focuses within digital marketing teams.

Is a search engine marketing manager a high paying job?

A search engine marketing manager typically earns a competitive salary that varies by experience, location, and industry. Professionals with skills in paid search campaigns, analytics, and tools like Google Ads often have higher earning potential, especially with certifications and proven results.

What are the most commonly searched types of Search Engine Marketing jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Search Engine Marketing jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Search Engine Marketing Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Search Engine Marketing Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Search Engine Marketing Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Search Engine Marketing Manager jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Search Engine Marketing Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Search Engine Marketing Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Search Engine Marketing Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,219 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

DIGITAL MEDIA EXECUTIVE - (REMOTE/DES MOINES) KWQC

GRAY TELEVISION

Davenport, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 hours ago


Gray Television rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 78 rated media


Job description

About Gray Media:

Today, we are a growing multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nation's largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets serving 117 full-power television markets that collectively reach approximately 37% of US television households. The portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest-rated television station in average all-day ratings across 116 of such markets that were measured by Nielsen in 2025. We also own the largest Telemundo Affiliate group with 46 markets and Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies with the most advanced digital products and services. Our additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios.

We understand that life needs balance. That is why we offer our employees and eligible family members a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Comprehensive Medical(Rx), Dental and Vision Coverage
  • Health Savings Account with Company contributions
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Employer-paid life and disability benefits
  • Paid parental leave benefits
  • Adoption and Surrogacy Benefits
  • 401(k) Plan, including matching and profit-sharing contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Voluntary benefits, including Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Accident Insurance, and supplemental life insurance coverage
  • Paid Time Off, including Relocation PTO
  • Focus on Caring

Salary/Wage:

Salary + Commission

Shift and Schedule:

Mon. - Fri. (or at the Manager's Discretion)

Job Type:

Full-Time

_______________________

Job Summary/Description:

This is a digital-first, remote sales role focused exclusively on selling Gray Digital Media's full suite of advanced digital marketing solutions to businesses in the Des Moines market. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives in an autonomous environment, is passionate about new business development, and has a strong command of digital advertising strategies.

Your success will be measured by high sales activity — prospecting, new client meetings, and customized proposals — while building a strong and growing book of business in the Des Moines region.

Duties/Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Prospect and develop new business across multiple industries in the Des Moines metro and surrounding communities, actively seeking and winning new client opportunities.
• Consult with business owners, marketing executives, and decision-makers to develop and implement effective digital marketing strategies tailored to their business goals.
• Sell and grow Gray Digital Media's full suite of digital advertising products, including OTT/Streaming (Connected TV), Programmatic Display & Video, Targeted Email Marketing, Paid Social Media, YouTube Advertising, Search Engine Marketing (SEM) & Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and more.
• Design, write, and present custom marketing proposals and presentations that clearly communicate digital solutions and demonstrate measurable ROI for clients.
• Meet and exceed sales activity targets, revenue goals, and budgets, managing a growing book of business across the Des Moines region.
• Develop, retain, and grow strong client relationships through consistent in-person consultation, strategic planning collaboration, and ongoing campaign performance reviews.
• Use client management tools and reporting software to track performance, optimize campaigns, and demonstrate ROI to clients.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Energetic, self-motivated professional with a passion for new business development and digital marketing solutions.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills — ability to consult confidently with business owners and marketing decision-makers.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote work environment.
• Strategic thinker with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple client relationships simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required; experience with CRM/client management tools preferred.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record required (will be reviewed) — regular in-person client calls throughout the Des Moines region are expected.
• Prior experience in digital media sales, advertising, or marketing is a plus — but we provide comprehensive training to support your growth and success.

If you feel you’re qualified and want to work with a great group of people, go to https://gray.tv/careers#currentopenings, you may type in the job title, station call letters, or click on "apply now", upload your resume, cover letter, and references

(Current employees who are interested in this position can apply through the Gray-TV UltiPro self-service portal)

KWQC-TV/Gray Media is a drug-free company

Additional Info:

Gray Media provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Gray Media complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Gray Media expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Gray’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.


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