Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Specialist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24, a leading digital agency in Paarl, Western Cape, seeks a skilled SEM Specialist to manage paid search campaigns and optimise performance. You will conduct keyword research, bid management, and analyze ROI across Google Ads and Bing Ads, collaborating with SEO and content teams to deliver integrated campaigns.

Ideal candidates have 2–4 years of SEM experience, proficiency in analytics tools, and strong communication skills to present insights to clients and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, Statistics, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of hands-on SEM and paid search advertising experience.
• Proven track record of managing successful paid search campaigns.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage paid search campaigns across Google Ads, Bing Ads, and other relevant platforms.
• Conduct in-depth keyword research and competitor analysis to optimize targeting.
• Create compelling ad copy and extensions to drive high CTR and conversions.
• Manage campaign budgets, ensuring efficient spend and ROI.
• Monitor performance daily and optimize based on data.
• Perform A/B testing on ad copy, landing pages, and targeting strategies.
• Analyze campaign data using Google Analytics to provide insights and reports.
• Stay updated with SEM trends and best practices.
• Collaborate with SEO, content, and social teams for integrated campaigns.
• Provide landing page recommendations to improve conversions.

Skills

Google Ads

Bing Ads

Keyword research

Bid management

Campaign optimization

Google Analytics

Data analysis

Communication

Team collaboration

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, Statistics, or related field

Tools

Google Ads

Bing Ads

Google Analytics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading digital agency, is seeking a highly skilled and results-driven Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Specialist to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA . This role is crucial for managing and optimizing paid search campaigns to drive qualified traffic and conversions for our clients. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of search engine advertising platforms, keyword research, bid management, and campaign analysis. You will be responsible for developing effective SEM strategies, executing campaigns, and continuously monitoring performance to ensure optimal ROI. We are looking for an analytical and detail-oriented individual who can thrive in a fast-paced agency environment. This position offers the opportunity to work with a diverse portfolio of clients and contribute to their online success.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage paid search campaigns across Google Ads, Bing Ads, and other relevant platforms.
• Conduct in-depth keyword research and competitor analysis to identify opportunities and optimize campaign targeting.
• Create compelling ad copy and extensions, focusing on driving high click-through rates and conversions.
• Manage campaign budgets effectively, ensuring efficient spend and maximizing ROI.
• Monitor campaign performance daily, identifying trends and implementing optimizations based on data.
• Perform A/B testing on ad copy, landing pages, and targeting strategies to improve campaign effectiveness.
• Analyze campaign data using tools like Google Analytics to provide insights and reports on performance.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in SEM and paid search advertising.
• Collaborate with other marketing teams (SEO, content, social media) to ensure integrated campaign strategies.
• Provide recommendations for landing page optimization to improve conversion rates.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, Statistics, or a related field.
• 2-4 years of hands‑on experience in Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and paid search advertising.
• Proven track record of managing successful paid search campaigns with demonstrable results.
• Proficiency in Google Ads and Bing Ads platforms.
• Strong understanding of keyword research, bid management, and campaign optimization techniques.
• Experience with web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics).
• Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an agency setting.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, extensive professional development opportunities, and a stimulating work environment in the heart of Paarl, Western Cape, ZA . Employees will gain valuable experience managing diverse client accounts and working with cutting-edge digital marketing tools. This role provides a clear career path within a reputable agency that values creativity, innovation, and client success. Join a dedicated team focused on driving measurable results through expert search engine marketing strategies.