Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Specialist

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Career development opportunities

Certification support

Dynamic team in Soweto

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a results-driven SEM Specialist to lead paid search initiatives from Soweto. You will manage Google Ads and Bing Ads campaigns, perform keyword research, write effective ad copy, and optimize bidding to maximize ROAS and CPA targets.

A data-driven mindset and strong analytical skills are essential to drive growth. The role requires collaboration with content and web teams, ongoing testing, and staying current with SEM trends.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an SEM Specialist or in a similar paid search role.
• In-depth knowledge of Google Ads and Bing Ads, including campaign setup, management, and optimization.
• Strong understanding of keyword research tools and methodologies.
• Experience with ad copywriting and A/B testing for paid search.
• Proficiency in using Google Analytics and other web analytics platforms to track campaign performance.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage paid search campaigns across Google Ads, Bing Ads, and other relevant platforms.
• Conduct thorough keyword research and analysis to identify new opportunities and optimize existing campaigns.
• Write compelling and effective ad copy that drives click-through rates (CTR) and conversions.
• Manage campaign budgets and bid strategies to achieve target ROAS and CPA goals.
• Monitor campaign performance daily, identifying trends and optimization opportunities.
• Perform A/B testing on ad copy, landing pages, and targeting parameters.
• Analyze campaign data and provide regular reports with actionable insights and recommendations.
• Collaborate with content and web teams to improve landing page effectiveness.
• Stay up-to-date with SEM trends, algorithm updates, and best practices.
• Identify and test new SEM strategies and features to drive continuous improvement.

Skills

SEM specialist

Google Ads

Bing Ads

Keyword research

Bid management

Ad copywriting

Google Analytics

Data analysis

Reporting

Budget optimization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing or related field

Tools

Google Ads platform

Bing Ads platform

Google Analytics

A/B testing tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing e-commerce business based in Soweto , Gauteng, is seeking a talented and results-driven Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Specialist to manage and optimize their paid search advertising efforts. This role is crucial for driving highly qualified traffic to their website, increasing conversions, and maximizing return on ad spend (ROAS). The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Google Ads, Bing Ads, and other paid search platforms, along with expertise in keyword research, bid management, ad copywriting, and performance analysis. You will be responsible for developing and executing effective SEM strategies to achieve business objectives and contribute to the company's online growth. We are looking for a proactive and analytical individual to lead SEM initiatives for a dynamic company in Soweto .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage paid search campaigns across Google Ads, Bing Ads, and other relevant platforms.
• Conduct thorough keyword research and analysis to identify new opportunities and optimize existing campaigns.
• Write compelling and effective ad copy that drives click-through rates (CTR) and conversions.
• Manage campaign budgets and bid strategies to achieve target ROAS and CPA goals.
• Monitor campaign performance on a daily basis, identifying trends and areas for optimization.
• Perform A/B testing on ad copy, landing pages, and targeting parameters.
• Analyze campaign data and provide regular reports with actionable insights and recommendations.
• Collaborate with the content and web development teams to ensure landing page effectiveness.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest SEM trends, algorithm updates, and best practices.
• Identify and test new SEM strategies and features to drive continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an SEM Specialist or in a similar paid search role.
• In-depth knowledge of Google Ads and Bing Ads, including campaign setup, management, and optimization.
• Strong understanding of keyword research tools and methodologies.
• Experience with ad copywriting and A/B testing for paid search.
• Proficiency in using Google Analytics and other web analytics platforms to track campaign performance.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a strong attention to detail.
• Ability to manage budgets effectively and achieve performance targets.
• Strong communication and reporting skills.
• Google Ads certification is required.
• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, Economics, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience in e-commerce SEM is highly desirable for this role in Soweto .

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
• Significant opportunity to impact online revenue and growth for a growing e-commerce business.
• Hands-on experience with advanced SEM strategies and tools.
• Professional development and opportunities to gain further certifications.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment in Soweto .
• Chance to contribute directly to customer acquisition efforts.
• Potential for career advancement within the marketing team.
• Work with a passionate and growth-oriented company.
• Be part of a team that values innovation and data-driven decision-making.
• Contribute to the success of a thriving local business in the Soweto community.