1

Search Engine Optimization Manager Jobs in Cleveland, OH

Prior experience managing and mentoring SEO teams within a fast-paced agency environment. * Experience leveraging AI tools and technologies to enhance SEO strategy, workflows, and search performance.

Prior experience managing and mentoring SEO teams within a fast-paced agency environment. * Experience leveraging AI tools and technologies to enhance SEO strategy, workflows, and search performance.

Prior experience managing and mentoring SEO teams within a fast-paced agency environment. * Experience leveraging AI tools and technologies to enhance SEO strategy, workflows, and search performance.

Strong digital knowledge : SEM, SEO, programmatic, OTT/CTV, social media, email marketing * Consultative selling approach with exceptional communication skills * CRM proficiency and data analysis ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Search Engine Optimization Manager information

See Cleveland, OH salary details

$38.8K

$83.6K

$130.4K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for search engine optimization manager in Cleveland, OH is $83,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,900.00 and $94,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSearch Engine Optimization ManagerContent Marketing Manager
Primary FocusOptimizing website content for search engines to improve rankingsCreating and managing content strategies to engage audiences
Required SkillsSEO tools, keyword research, analytics, technical SEOContent creation, storytelling, social media, branding
Work EnvironmentDigital marketing teams, SEO agencies, in-house marketingContent teams, marketing departments, media agencies
Common CertificationsGoogle Analytics, SEO certifications, HubSpot Content MarketingContent marketing certifications, HubSpot Content Marketing, Google Analytics

The Search Engine Optimization Manager primarily focuses on improving website visibility through technical and strategic SEO practices. In contrast, the Content Marketing Manager concentrates on developing engaging content to attract and retain audiences. While both roles require strong digital marketing skills and often collaborate, their core responsibilities differ, making this comparison useful for those exploring career paths or hiring needs in digital marketing.

What are some common challenges faced by search engine optimization managers, and how can they be addressed?

Search Engine Optimization Managers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with frequent algorithm updates, measuring the true impact of SEO efforts, and aligning strategies across different departments. Staying informed through industry news and continuous learning is key to adapting to search engine changes. Collaborating closely with content, web development, and marketing teams helps ensure alignment and maximizes SEO effectiveness. Utilizing analytics tools and setting clear KPIs can also aid in tracking progress and demonstrating ROI to stakeholders.

What does a search engine optimization manager do?

As a search engine optimization manager, your primary duties are to develop and implement a company’s SEO strategy. You work with marketing and sales managers to determine the goals of your company and then direct your department to carry out tactics to meet those goals. These tactics include creating web-optimized content for a website, developing a corpus of keywords that drive traffic to the website, developing social media campaign strategies, and improving the performance of search engine results. You also help hire and train new writers and content developers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a search engine optimization manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Manager, you need a deep understanding of SEO strategies, keyword research, analytics, and content optimization, often supported by a degree in marketing or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Google Analytics, SEMrush, Ahrefs, and certifications like Google Analytics or HubSpot SEO are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and project management skills help SEO Managers collaborate effectively and adapt to algorithm changes. These abilities are crucial for driving organic traffic, improving website rankings, and achieving business growth through search visibility.
What cities near Cleveland, OH are hiring for Search Engine Optimization Manager jobs? Cities near Cleveland, OH with the most Search Engine Optimization Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Search Engine Optimization Manager job openings in Cleveland, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,606 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

People Architects is excited to recruit an SEO Director (Agency Leadership & AI Search Strategy) for an on-site role in Cleveland, Ohio for one of our high-growth agency clients.


Summary:

This is a strategic leadership opportunity for an experienced SEO professional who excels at the intersection of client strategy, team leadership, and the evolving future of AI search. We are looking for an SEO Director who can translate complex SEO performance and data into clear, compelling business insights for executive-level clients and stakeholders.

In this role, you'll lead high level SEO initiatives, mentor a performance focused team, and drive accountability across client accounts and internal processes. The ideal candidate is a forward thinking leader who understands where search is heading, thrives in a fast-paced agency environment, and can turn complex SEO strategy into measurable business impact

Responsibilities:


  • Drive the agency's SEO framework and accountability standards, ensuring teams meet deliverables and KPIs through consistent process execution.
  • Act as the primary SEO strategist for high-value client accounts, translating complex SEO and performance data into clear, narrative-driven business insights for executive stakeholders.
  • Lead the development of high-level SEO and organic search strategies aligned with broader client business goals.
  • Coach and mentor SEO team members in a fast-paced agency environment, providing strategic guidance and troubleshooting support for underperforming accounts.
  • Drive innovative SEO initiatives, including optimization strategies for AI-driven search experiences and evolving search behaviors.
  • Collaborate closely with global leadership teams to maintain team alignment, communication, and operational efficiency.
  • Review all team deliverables to ensure agency standards for quality, accuracy, and strategic impact are consistently met.
  • Support new business development efforts by crafting compelling SEO strategies, contributing to pitches, and participating in client presentations.
  • Lead thought leadership initiatives through the development of case studies, strategic insights, and industry-forward perspectives on search marketing trends.

Qualifications (Required and Preferred):


  • 8+ years of SEO experience, with a demonstrated track record leading successful organic search initiatives.
  • Exceptional communication and storytelling skills, with the ability to clearly explain the "why" behind SEO performance and strategy to executive-level stakeholders.
  • A visionary, forward-thinking mindset with the ability to anticipate industry shifts and adapt agency strategies to the evolving search landscape.
  • Prior experience managing and mentoring SEO teams within a fast-paced agency environment.
  • Experience leveraging AI tools and technologies to enhance SEO strategy, workflows, and search performance.
  • High proficiency with industry platforms including Google Search Console, SEMrush, Moz, and Screaming Frog.
  • Strong analytical capabilities with hands-on experience using Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager.
  • Highly accountable, proactive, and solutions-oriented leadership mindset.
  • Deep understanding of modern SEO strategy, technical SEO concepts, and evolving search engine behavior.
  • Opportunity to shape the future direction of SEO and AI-search strategy within a growing agency environment.
  • Executive-level visibility and direct influence on strategic decision-making.
  • Leadership role focused on strategy, mentorship, innovation, and client impact.
  • Collaborative, fast-moving environment that values initiative, accountability, and forward-thinking ideas.

We recognize that exceptional candidates may not meet every listed qualification. If your experience strongly aligns with strategic SEO leadership, client communication, and team development, we encourage you to apply.


We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. People Architect and our clients are equal opportunity employers and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status. Applicants for employment with any of People Architect's clients will ever be asked to provide money (even if reimbursable) as part of the job application or hiring process.

*no external agencies/3rd parties.