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Search Engine Optimization Analyst Jobs in Illinois

This role requires an advanced understanding of SEO best practices, analytics, and emerging search paradigms such as generative AI, zero-click search, and multi-modal discovery. The Sr. Manager ...

This role requires an advanced understanding of SEO best practices, analytics, and emerging search paradigms such as generative AI, zero-click search, and multi-modal discovery. The Sr. Manager ...

SEO/GEO Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135 - $150/hr

With expertise spanning SEO/GEO, paid media, creative production, analytics, and local optimization, we combine the brightest minds with innovative technology to deliver seamless, forward-thinking ...

The Ovative Group Manager, SEO position is an opportunity for a passionate, experienced candidate ... Automating reporting views within analytics platforms to scalably identify key drivers of ...

This role requires an advanced understanding of SEO best practices, analytics, and emerging search paradigms such as generative AI, zero-click search, and multi-modal discovery. The Sr. Manager ...

SEO/GEO Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Position Summary The SEO/GEO Director works with the account team to provide research, strategy ... Analysis - Monitor key metrics using analytics tools (Google Analytics, Authoritas, SEOclarity, and ...

Senior SEO Specialist

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Analyze and provide recommendations for platform-specific SEO efforts * Provide ongoing recommendations for site structure, content, and user journey flow to increase visibility within search engines

With expertise spanning SEO/GEO, paid media, creative production, analytics, and local optimization, we combine the brightest minds with innovative technology to deliver seamless, forward-thinking ...

With expertise spanning SEO/GEO, paid media, creative production, analytics, and local optimization, we combine the brightest minds with innovative technology to deliver seamless, forward-thinking ...

SEO Strategist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $84K/yr

Support reporting and analysis deliverables, such as keyword mapping, SEO audits (technical, competitor and content), monthly/quarterly readouts and ad hoc data pulls. * Monitor SEO performance of ...

SEO Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$101K - $168K/yr

Position Details The Search Engine Optimization Manager is responsible for implementing and ... Experience performing quantitative analysis and translating data into actionable insights ...

With expertise spanning SEO, paid media, creative production, analytics, and local optimization, we combine the brightest minds with innovative technology to deliver seamless, forward-thinking ...

SEO Manager

Lake Forest, IL · Hybrid

$101K - $168K/yr

Position Details The Search Engine Optimization Manager is responsible for implementing and ... Experience performing quantitative analysis and translating data into actionable insights ...

With expertise spanning SEO, paid media, creative production, analytics, and local optimization, we combine the brightest minds with innovative technology to deliver seamless, forward-thinking ...

SEO Manager

Lake Forest, IL · Hybrid

$101K - $168K/yr

Position Details The Search Engine Optimization Manager is responsible for implementing and ... Experience performing quantitative analysis and translating data into actionable insights ...

SEO Manager

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$101K - $168K/yr

Position Details The Search Engine Optimization Manager is responsible for implementing and ... Experience performing quantitative analysis and translating data into actionable insights ...

Showing results 21-40

Search Engine Optimization Analyst information

See Illinois salary details

$18

$44

$62

How much do search engine optimization analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for search engine optimization analyst in Illinois is $44.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.08 and $58.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a job in search engine optimization analyst?

Landing a position as a search engine optimization (SEO) analyst can vary in difficulty depending on experience, skills, and industry demand. Strong knowledge of SEO tools, analytics, and digital marketing strategies can improve job prospects, but competition may require continuous learning and certifications to stand out.

What is the difference between Search Engine Optimization Analyst vs Content Marketing Specialist?

AspectSearch Engine Optimization AnalystContent Marketing Specialist
CredentialsSEO certifications, marketing degreesMarketing or communications degrees, content certifications
Work EnvironmentDigital marketing teams, agenciesContent teams, marketing departments
Industry UsageOnline retail, tech, mediaMedia, advertising, e-commerce
Primary FocusOptimizing website visibility and rankingsCreating engaging content to attract audiences

The Search Engine Optimization Analyst primarily focuses on improving website rankings through technical SEO, keyword research, and analytics. In contrast, the Content Marketing Specialist concentrates on developing compelling content to engage users and support marketing goals. While both roles work closely in digital marketing, their core responsibilities and skill sets differ, making them distinct but complementary positions within a marketing team.

What does a search engine optimization analyst do?

A search engine optimization (SEO) analyst analyzes website content, keywords, and performance metrics to improve search engine rankings. They use tools like Google Analytics and SEO software to develop strategies that increase organic traffic and ensure websites adhere to best practices for visibility.

How do I become a search engine optimization analyst?

To become a search engine optimization analyst, you typically need a bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, or a related field, along with strong skills in data analysis, keyword research, and familiarity with SEO tools like Google Analytics and SEMrush. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining certifications such as Google Analytics or HubSpot can also enhance your qualifications.
What are popular job titles related to Search Engine Optimization Analyst jobs in Illinois? For Search Engine Optimization Analyst jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Search Engine Optimization Analyst jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Search Engine Optimization Analyst jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Search Engine Optimization Analyst jobs in IL? For Search Engine Optimization Analyst jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Search Engine Optimization Analyst job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,417 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Sr. SEO Manager

Hearst

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Hearst rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 76 rated media


Job description

About Us

iCrossing is a Hearst-backed marketing and technology partner built for how brands grow today. As outcomes architects, we bring together strategy, media, experience, engineering, data, and AI to build connected digital systems that improve performance, strengthen customer experiences, and support measurable business growth.

Our work is grounded in data-backed strategy, modern digital visibility, and connected execution. We help brands perform now while transforming for what's next, designing the platforms, content, media, and operating models that help them move faster, learn smarter, and scale what works.

At iCrossing, you'll work with teams across marketing, technology, and experience to solve complex client challenges with strategic breadth and executional depth. As part of Hearst, we combine agency agility with access to powerful data, insights, audiences, content, and technology capabilities.rporation, the world's leading media, entertainment, and content company, which gives us access to the most valuable data and insights, talent and audiences.

Your Impact 

As a Sr. Manager, SEO, you will provide day-to-day SEO & GEO leadership for advanced/large clients to drive organic growth and ensure the success of our clients' digital marketing campaigns. You will broaden overall engagements with your cross-channel knowledge, and you can lead more junior SEO personnel on enterprise-level clients. This role requires an advanced understanding of SEO best practices, analytics, and emerging search paradigms such as generative AI, zero-click search, and multi-modal discovery. The Sr. Manager participates in new business pitches and helps shape the company's SEO & GEO product offering. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of successful SEO engagements, demonstrated leadership skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to realize outcomes for clients. This is a full-time role and requires 2 days per week in the office. 

What you'll do 

Strategic Planning and Client management 

  • Develop and implement comprehensive SEO-focused strategies that align with clients' business goals. 
  • Conduct in-depth findability research, competitive analysis, and market trends to inform strategy. 
  • Serve as a primary day-to-day point of contact for key client accounts, ensuring satisfaction and success with engagements focused on SEO. 
  • Present SEO strategies, reports, and results that connect with broader business objectives in a clear and compelling manner. 

Execution, Optimization, Reporting and Analysis 

  • Oversee the execution of comprehensive SEO & GEO programs, including technical SEO, content optimization, proof and entity strategy, and adjacent services (i.e., Content Creation, CMS enhancements, landing pages, and digital analytics). 
  • Utilize advanced SEO tools and analytics platforms, including the iCrossing proprietary toolset, to monitor, analyze, and report on campaign performance. 
  • Identify opportunities for optimization and growth and implement changes to improve and expand SEO focused engagements. 
  • Develop and deliver comprehensive SEO, AI, and Discoverability reports, including performance metrics, insights, and actionable recommendations. 
  • Use data-driven analysis to measure the success of SEO focused initiatives and inform future strategies. 

Leadership and Collaboration 

  • Mentor and guide more junior SEO professionals, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. 
  • Identify needs and help develop training materials for enhanced and expanded ways of working for SEO focused client engagements. 
  • Work with cross-functional teams with resources from Business Solutions and Transformation Strategy, Experience Design & Content Solutions, Media, and Digital Solutions, to deliver cohesive and effective digital marketing strategies. 
  • Stay up to date with the latest related market trends including but not limited to search engine algorithm updates, the impacts of new technology, and industry best practices. 
  • Create demand for iCrossing services through developing industry POVs and thought leadership papers. 
  • Craft compelling client case studies to support marketing-influenced leads. 

Who you are 

  • 6+ years' experience working in SEO for agencies or large brands. 
  • Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, computer science, information technology, or related field strongly preferred. 
  • Extensive understanding of SEO principles, best practices, and industry trends 
  • Experience designing and applying GEO tactics to realize KPI growth for enterprise-level brands 
  • Strong analytical skills: ability to draw conclusions from data and take action accordingly. 
  • Results-driven with strong business acumen 
  • Strong Web analytics experience across key platforms like Google Analytics & Adobe Analytics 
  • Fundamental understanding of technical SEO; experience with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and web design technologies 
  • Possess strong storytelling and presentation capabilities. 
  • Ability to pivot quickly and work in a rapidly changing environment and adapt, as necessary. 
  • Highly organized with excellent analytical, time management, problem-solving, and project management abilities 
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects and clients simultaneously. 
  • Highly proficient with Microsoft Office; advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills a plus 
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal 
  • Strong mathematical and writing skills. 
  • Able to work well in a team environment and have a positive attitude. 

The estimated salary range for this position in Chicago is between $90,000 and $108,000. For New York City,the estimated salary range for this position is between $100,000 and $120,000. The range for this position in other geographies may vary based on market differences.The actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law. 

We also offer a competitive benefits package that includes: 

  1. Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance 
  2. 401(k) Retirement Plan 
  3. Flexible Spending & Health Savings Account 
  4. Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time 
  5. Parental Leave 
  6. Employee assistance program and other company benefits. 

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