Search Engine Optimization Specialist
Sway creates seaweed-based compostable packaging that replaces plastic while protecting oceans, restoring marine ecosystems, and eliminating microplastics. Over five trillion plastic bags are produced globally every year, with a dismal 2% recycling rate that leaves the remaining 98% to fragment into microplastics contaminating our ecosystems, food systems, and human health. Plastic pollution inflicts over $3.7 trillion in annual economic and environmental damage, yet packaging remains essential for food safety, hygiene, and product protection. Sway addresses this global waste crisis by leveraging ocean-cultivated seaweed to create TPSea Flex™, a home-compostable, flexible thermoplastic film that matches plastic’s performance without toxic chemicals or microplastics. Designed to plug directly into conventional manufacturing machinery, Sway’s materials allow legacy producers to transition to regenerative alternatives at scale without costly retooling.
About the role
Over 12 weeks, you'll help us climb Google's rankings for high-impact keywords like "seaweed packaging," "compostable packaging," and "next-generation materials." Your work will directly shape how people discover Sway and, ultimately, how they access alternatives to conventional plastics.
- Phase 1 (Weeks 1-3): Audit
- Conduct a comprehensive technical SEO audit of swaythefuture.com (site structure, performance, indexation, user experience)
- Analyze current keyword rankings and competitive positioning
- Identify content gaps and quick-win opportunities
- Deliver a clear, prioritized audit report with recommendations
- Phase 2 (Weeks 3-4): Strategy & Roadmap
- Develop a strategic execution plan prioritizing high-impact opportunities
- Recommend on-page, technical, and content improvements
- Identify keyword targets aligned with Sway's business priorities
- Present findings and roadmap to our Marketing & Communications team
- Phase 3 (Weeks 4-12): Implementation & Quick Wins
- Implement priority technical SEO improvements (with our team)
- Optimize existing content for target keywords
- Create content briefs for new pages
- Configure Rankmath settings and reporting dashboards
- Track KPIs and share monthly progress updates
- Identify and execute quick wins toward longer-term visibility goals
Requirements
Essential Skills:
- 5+ years of SEO experience with proven results (rankings, organic traffic growth)
- Expertise of technical SEO (Core Web Vitals, crawlability, structured data)
- Proficiency with Google Search Console, Google Analytics 4, and competitive analysis tools (SEMrush, Ahrefs)
- Fluency in SEO for WordPress (site structure, plugin management, performance)
- Ability to audit, strategize, and execute independently
- Clear communication with non-technical stakeholders
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with Rankmath or Semplice (platforms Sway uses within WordPress)
- B2B or sustainability sector SEO experience
- Portfolio or case studies showing measurable SEO wins
- Interest in material science, climate tech, or sustainability
Why this matters
Search visibility is how the world discovers that seaweed-based alternatives exist. Every keyword you optimize, every page you improve, and every ranking we climb puts Sway closer to the brands and distributors actively looking for solutions to plastic packaging. Your work will help scale a material innovation that directly improves ocean health, our climate, and our worldwide waste problem.
Benefits
- Mentorship: Direct collaboration with our Head of Marketing & Communications; access to Sway's founding team and product/R&D insights
- Feedback: Monthly check-ins, strategic guidance, and technical support as you navigate implementation
- Reference & Portfolio: This becomes a standout case study for your portfolio — measurable SEO wins at a mission-driven startup
- Impact Clarity: Monthly reports showing rankings, traffic, and business impact
- Community: You'll join the Sway team and the broader network of ChangeMakers driving climate innovation
Time Commitment: Volunteer 4-6 hours per week for 3-5 months remotely.