Paid Search Lead

AmaWaterways River Cruises; Calabasas (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Collaborative work environment

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

AmaWaterways River Cruises in California is searching for a Paid Search Manager. This role involves strategic planning and execution of paid search campaigns on Google and Bing platforms, collaborating with analytics and content teams to ensure alignment and optimize performance. The position requires a Bachelor's degree and significant expertise in Google Ads.

The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and communication skills, along with a commitment to company values. Opportunity for professional growth within a supportive and innovative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience required.
• 4+ years of related experience in paid search.
• Strong analytical and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage paid search strategies.
• Lead campaign architecture and optimization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Skills

Google Ads expertise

Analytics skills

Communication skills

Microsoft Excel skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Project Management Software

Job description

At AmaWaterways, we believe meaningful careers begin with purpose, passion and a shared commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences. For those who value curiosity, connection and personal enrichment, AmaWaterways offers the opportunity to help craft meaningful river journeys that invite travelers to follow their own current. Built on a foundation of heartfelt hospitality, we treat our guests—and each other—with genuine care, warmth and respect. AmaWaterways fosters a collaborative environment both onboard our ships and across our global network of offices, where team members grow together, support one another and take pride in upholding the high standards and thoughtful service our company is known for.

Summary

Responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and ongoing optimization of paid search and Performance Max campaigns across Google and Bing platforms. This role requires the use of discretion and independent judgment in decision‑making related to budget allocation, campaign structure, creative direction, and performance strategy. The position plays a critical role in shaping media performance, driving cross‑functional alignment, and influencing broader digital marketing objectives in partnership with analytics, CRM, and content stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and manage comprehensive paid search and Performance Max strategies that align with broader business goals and revenue targets.
• Exercise independent judgment in campaign planning, budget forecasting, and media investment decisions to meet ROAS and customer acquisition goals.
• Lead the architecture, implementation, and optimization of paid campaigns across Google Ads (Search, PMAX, YouTube, Shopping) and Bing, ensuring best practices in structure, bidding, and creative application.
• Evaluate and interpret campaign performance data to identify strategic opportunities and formulate testing roadmaps; adjust tactics and strategy based on learnings.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with analytics, CRM, and merchandising teams to interpret complex data sources and incorporate multi‑touch attribution, LTV models, and audience insights into campaign strategy.
• Independently generate and present weekly and monthly reporting, inclusive of performance trends, strategic recommendations, and testing insights for leadership review.
• Partner with SEO and content leads to align paid and organic keyword strategies, influence content roadmap, and optimize user journeys across channels.
• Influence platform‑level innovation and propose new initiatives to enhance media effectiveness and customer engagement.
• Stay informed on industry trends, Google Ads platform changes, and evolving best practices; proactively recommend policy or process updates accordingly.
• May be required to work extended hours, evenings, weekends, or holidays based on business needs and campaign requirements.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree (BA) from four‑year college or university, or four or more years of related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Mandatory certifications: Google Ads Search Certification, Google Ads Shopping Certification, Microsoft Advertising Search Certification, and Microsoft Advertising Shopping Certification.
  • Nice‑to‑have certifications: Google Ads Measurement Certification, Google Ads Display Certification, Google Ads Video Certification, Google Merchant Center Fundamentals, Google Analytics Certification (GA4), Microsoft Advertising Native & Display Certification, and Search Ads 360 Certification.
• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office Suite; Project Management Software; Internet Software; Spreadsheet Software; Word Processing Software; Electronic Mail Software; Presentation Software.
• Other skills required:
  • Four or more years in paid search, ideally in‑house or agency experience.
  • Expert in Google Ads, Performance Max, and Google Analytics.
  • Google Ads & Microsoft certification.
  • Strong analytical and Microsoft Excel skills.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Nice‑to‑have:
  • Experience with feed management platforms (e.g., Feedonomics, Productsup, GoDataFeed) for optimizing product feeds for Google and Microsoft Shopping campaigns.
  • Luxury travel experience a plus.

Competencies

• Inclusion & Respect: Demonstrates respect for diverse perspectives and backgrounds; fosters a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace; actively supports equity, belonging, and mutual understanding.
• Ethics & Integrity: Leads with integrity, transparency, and professionalism; honors commitments; builds trust through consistent actions; upholds AmaWaterways’ values and standards.
• Analytical Thinking: Synthesizes complex information; leverages data, experience, and sound judgment to design practical and effective solutions.
• Business Acumen: Understands the broader business impact of decisions; considers financial, market, and operational implications; aligns work with strategic priorities.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Partners effectively across teams and functions; values diverse viewpoints; builds trust; advances shared goals and collective success.
• Communication: Communicates clearly and thoughtfully; adapts messaging; listens actively; presents ideas with confidence and purpose.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Occasionally required to stand.
• Occasionally required to walk.
• Continually required to sit.
• Continually required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
• Continually required to talk or hear.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and color vision.