SEO Specialist

The Minnesota Star Tribune is an innovative modern media organization building on an extraordinary 157-year legacy. With seven Pulitzer Prizes and numerous other accolades, we stand as a beacon of journalistic excellence in Minnesota. We are the heart and voice of the North.

Our mission is to build a better Minnesota by connecting us with the people, ideas, and stories that strengthen our communities. We're seeking dynamic leaders who are passionate about journalism and democracy to help shape this future. If you are excited about reinventing one of our state's most trusted institutions and leading us into a new era of growth and excellence, we want to hear from you.

Job Summary:

As our SEO Specialist, you will play a key role in developing and executing search engine optimization strategies for our diverse client portfolio. You will work closely with our paid search and content teams to ensure that all digital marketing campaigns are optimized for maximum performance across search engines. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on, results-driven individual who is highly skilled in both technical SEO and content strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• SEO Strategy Development: Conduct comprehensive keyword research, competitive analysis, and SEO audits to develop tailored SEO strategies for clients.
• On-Page Optimization: Optimize website content, meta tags, and headings to improve organic search performance.
• Technical SEO: Work closely with web development teams to ensure websites are properly optimized for crawling and indexing (e.g., site speed, mobile optimization, structured data, etc.).
• Content Strategy: Collaborate with content teams to create SEO-friendly content that aligns with client goals and enhances search results.
• Link Building & Outreach: Plan and implement link-building strategies to increase domain authority and improve rankings.
• Analytics & Reporting: Monitor and analyze website performance using GA4, Google Search Console, and other SEO tools. Provide regular reports on key metrics, rankings, and recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Client Communication: Regularly communicate with clients to update them on progress, present results, and adjust strategies based on performance data.
• Stay Current with SEO Trends: Keep up to date with the latest search engine algorithms, trends, and best practices to ensure that all SEO strategies are in line with current standards.
• Training and development: Contribute to the education of the greater account team on how to sell and discuss results of SEO as well as enhance the paid search team's ability to contribute to SEO efforts.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• 4-6 years proven experience as an SEO Specialist, SEO Manager, or similar role in an agency or in-house environment.
• Strong understanding of search engine algorithms, ranking factors, and SEO best practices.
• Hands-on experience with SEO tools such as GA4, Google Search Console, SEMrush, and other relevant platforms.
• Solid knowledge of on-page and off-page SEO techniques.
• Experience with technical SEO, including site audits, keyword optimization, and structured data (Schema markup).
• Familiarity with website platforms like WordPress, Shopify, and custom-built sites.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is a plus but not required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with local SEO strategies and Google My Business optimization.
• Experience with paid search (PPC) and social media marketing is a plus.
• Familiarity with UX/UI principles and how they impact SEO performance.
• Google Analytics, Google Ads, or other relevant certifications.

More about The Minnesota Star Tribune

At The Minnesota Star Tribune, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are committed to their happiness, growth, and well-being. Here's a snapshot of the exceptional benefits we offer:

• Modern Downtown Office: Enjoy a state-of-the-art workspace with a free fitness center, collaborative center, golf simulator, and a rooftop patio.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Includes commuting subsidy, medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Wellness & Work-Life Balance: Participate in our wellness program with financial incentives, generous paid time off, flexible holidays, one volunteer day, and two wellness days.
• Financial & Family Support: Benefit from a 401(k) with company match, paid parental and caregiving leave, hybrid work arrangements, and tuition reimbursement.
• Additional Perks: Access to an employee assistance program, pet insurance, flexible spending accounts, and health savings accounts.

Honored in 2023 with Diversity MBA's inaugural Top 25 Outstanding Leadership and Diversity Impact Awards, we are proud of our commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Even if you don't meet every single requirement for this role, we encourage you to apply. At The Minnesota Star Tribune, we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.