What Does an SEO Manager Do?
An SEO manager is responsible for developing and executing strategies that improve a company’s visibility in search engines. Their goal is to increase website traffic, enhance search rankings, and drive qualified leads through organic search. They oversee keyword research, on-page and off-page optimization, technical SEO improvements, and link-building campaigns while working to align SEO with broader marketing and business objectives.
In addition to daily optimization tasks, SEO managers analyze performance data, monitor industry trends, and identify opportunities to gain a competitive edge. They collaborate with web developers to address technical issues, guide content creators to produce search-friendly material, and report on KPIs such as rankings, traffic, and conversions. With a combination of analytical skills and strategic vision, SEO managers ensure that websites remain competitive in an ever-changing digital landscape.
Looking to Hire a SEO Manager?
Speak with one of our recruiting experts today.
SEO Manager Core Responsibilities
- Develop and execute comprehensive SEO strategies
- Conduct keyword research and optimize content for target audiences
- Oversee technical SEO audits and resolve issues related to site performance
- Manage link-building initiatives and outreach campaigns
- Monitor KPIs, rankings, and organic traffic through analytics tools
- Collaborate with developers, content creators, and marketing teams
- Stay informed about algorithm updates and SEO best practices
- Provide regular reports and insights to stakeholders
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency with SEO tools (SEMrush, Ahrefs, Moz, Screaming Frog)
- Strong knowledge of keyword research and on-page optimization
- Experience with technical SEO, site audits, and structured data
- Proficiency with Google Analytics, GA4, and Google Search Console
- Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and website CMS platforms
Soft skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects
- Adaptability to search engine algorithm changes
- Strategic thinking with focus on measurable results
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, communications, or IT required
Certifications
- Google Analytics Certification required
- HubSpot SEO Certification, SEMrush, or BrightEdge certifications preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of SEO experience with a proven track record of success
- Experience managing large-scale or enterprise-level SEO campaigns
- Familiarity with e-commerce SEO and international SEO strategies
- Background in leading cross-functional SEO initiatives
National Average Salary
SEO manager salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a SEO Manager is:
$85,435
Sample Job Description Templates for SEO Managers
Junior SEO Specialist
Position Overview
We are seeking a junior SEO specialist to join our digital marketing team and support efforts to grow website visibility and traffic. This entry-level role is perfect for individuals with a foundational understanding of search engine optimization who are eager to build hands-on experience with keyword research, content optimization, and analytics tools.
Responsibilities
- Conduct keyword research to support content and campaign strategies
- Optimize website pages, blog posts, and metadata for SEO best practices
- Assist in link-building outreach and relationship management
- Monitor search engine rankings and track keyword performance
- Help perform site audits and prepare basic reports for stakeholders
- Stay up to date with SEO trends and algorithm changes
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of SEO tools (SEMrush, Ahrefs, Moz)
- Familiarity with Google Analytics and Google Search Console
- Understanding of keyword research and on-page optimization
- Basic knowledge of HTML and CMS platforms such as WordPress
Soft skills
- Eagerness to learn and grow in the SEO field
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
- Good written and verbal communication abilities
- Ability to work in a collaborative team environment
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or related field preferred
Certifications
- Google Analytics Certification encouraged within the first year
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or freelance experience in digital marketing or SEO
- Familiarity with content management systems and basic web development
Mid-Level SEO Specialist
Position Overview
We are hiring a mid-level SEO strategist to take ownership of optimizing website performance, driving organic growth, and managing day-to-day SEO operations. This role requires a strong background in keyword research, technical SEO, and campaign execution.
Responsibilities
- Develop keyword strategies to increase organic traffic and rankings
- Conduct technical SEO audits and oversee remediation efforts
- Create and optimize content in collaboration with writers and designers
- Track, analyze, and report on SEO performance metrics
- Identify new opportunities for growth across search engines
- Stay current on algorithm updates and competitive trends
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with SEO tools (SEMrush, Ahrefs, Moz, Screaming Frog)
- Strong understanding of technical SEO, including site speed and structured data
- Proficiency with Google Analytics, GA4, and Google Search Console
- Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and CMS platforms
Soft skills
- Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Problem-solving and adaptability in changing digital environments
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or IT required
Certifications
- Google Analytics Certification required
- SEMrush or HubSpot SEO certifications preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 3–5 years of professional SEO experience
- Experience with local SEO, e-commerce, or B2B search strategies
Senior SEO Manager
Position Overview
We are looking for a senior SEO manager to lead advanced SEO initiatives and deliver long-term organic growth strategies. This role requires expertise in technical SEO, content optimization, and analytics, along with leadership skills to guide junior SEO staff.
Responsibilities
- Lead SEO strategy development and execution across multiple sites or regions
- Manage large-scale technical SEO projects and audits
- Supervise keyword strategy, link-building, and content optimization initiatives
- Provide mentorship and training to junior SEO team members
- Collaborate with marketing leadership on cross-channel campaigns
- Report on KPIs, ROI, and long-term SEO performance
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in technical SEO, content optimization, and link-building
- Proficiency with enterprise SEO tools and analytics platforms
- Strong knowledge of website architecture and structured data
- Advanced proficiency with GA4, Google Search Console, and reporting dashboards
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Ability to translate technical SEO findings into business impact
- Strategic planning and problem-solving skills
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; master’s preferred
Certifications
- Google Analytics Certification required
- Advanced certifications (BrightEdge, SEO-specific platforms) preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 5–7 years of professional SEO experience
- Proven success managing SEO campaigns at scale
Lead SEO Manager
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead SEO manager to oversee enterprise-level SEO operations, ensuring strategies align with organizational goals and deliver measurable results. This role combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities to manage teams and influence company-wide digital growth.
Responsibilities
- Oversee SEO strategies across multiple departments and regions
- Lead technical SEO initiatives and manage complex audits
- Supervise and mentor SEO strategists and specialists
- Partner with content, development, and marketing teams to integrate SEO best practices
- Provide executive-level reporting on performance and ROI
- Evaluate emerging SEO tools, technologies, and trends
Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of technical SEO, enterprise-level tools, and analytics platforms
- Strong knowledge of multi-site SEO strategies and international SEO
- Experience with budget planning and resource allocation
- Familiarity with web development, structured data, and CMS optimization
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and people management abilities
- Clear communication and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to balance high-level strategy with hands-on execution
- Visionary thinking with focus on long-term growth
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or master’s degree preferred
Certifications
- Google Analytics Certification required
- Advanced SEO certifications preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 7–10 years of SEO and digital marketing experience
- Proven ability to lead enterprise-wide SEO strategies
SEO Director
Position Overview
We are seeking an SEO director to provide executive leadership and long-term strategic direction for the organization’s search marketing efforts. This role requires overseeing all SEO initiatives, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring search strategies support company growth objectives.
Responsibilities
- Define the organization’s SEO vision and align it with business goals
- Lead and mentor SEO managers, strategists, and specialists
- Oversee multi-channel integration of SEO with content, social, and paid campaigns
- Manage budgets, vendors, and technology platforms for SEO programs
- Present performance insights and ROI to executive leadership
- Drive innovation by adopting new tools, strategies, and technologies
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in technical SEO, analytics, and enterprise-level platforms
- Strong knowledge of multi-site, international, and e-commerce SEO strategies
- Proficiency in managing large budgets and vendor relationships
- Advanced skills in web analytics and performance reporting
Soft skills
- Executive-level communication and leadership skills
- Strategic vision and ability to influence organizational direction
- Strong decision-making and prioritization skills
- Ability to collaborate with executives and cross-functional teams
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or master’s degree strongly preferred
Certifications
- Google Analytics and Google Ads Certifications required
- Additional certifications in SEO tools (SEMrush, BrightEdge) preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of SEO and digital marketing experience, including leadership roles
- Proven track record of scaling SEO programs across industries or geographies