Search Optimization Strategist

About the role

Lead the firm’s approach to search visibility across traditional search engines and emerging AI-powered discovery platforms. This role owns strategy and execution across Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) to ensure Plante Moran content is discoverable, trusted, and cited wherever prospects seek answers. The Search Optimization Strategist works cross-functionally with content, digital marketing, subject matter experts, and web teams to influence how the firm appears in organic search results, featured answers, and AI-generated responses.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement firm-wide search optimization strategy across SEO, AEO, and GEO to increase organic visibility, authority, and share of voice
• Partner with content, digital marketing, and subject matter experts to shape search-first content strategies aligned to business goals and audience intent
• Conduct keyword, query, and topic research to inform traditional search optimization as well as AI- and answer-based discovery
• Optimize web and digital content for on-page SEO (titles, metadata, structure, schema); provide guidance for off-page optimization including backlinks, PR alignment, and authority signals
• Ensure content is structured and written to perform well in featured snippets, voice search, and AI-generated answers (e.g., clear answers, structured formats, citation-ready content)
• Monitor and analyze performance across rankings, visibility, featured results, and AI citations; socialize insights and opportunities with marketing stakeholders
• Use and help evolve search tooling and measurement approaches (e.g., enterprise SEO platforms, analytics, emerging AI visibility tools)
• Establish and reinforce search optimization best practices across teams through documentation, collaboration, and education
• Collaborate with subject matter experts and content team to guide development of staff-authored content, including interview-led content and thought leadership
• Make recommendations for improving site structure, content governance, and SEO fundamentals in partnership with web and UX teams
• Contribute to and advance content governance standards, workflows, and optimization processes
• Support integrated marketing campaigns by ensuring search optimization is embedded from planning through execution

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, or related field; or equivalent education, training, or experience
• 3–5 years of experience in SEO, content strategy, digital marketing, or search-focused roles (B2B experience preferred)
• Hands-on experience with enterprise SEO tools (e.g., Conductor, SEMrush, Moz, or similar)
• Strong understanding of modern SEO fundamentals, including technical SEO, on-page optimization, and authority signals
• Working knowledge of AEO concepts (featured snippets, voice search, question-based optimization) and GEO concepts (AI-generated answers, citations, entity authority), or demonstrated ability to learn and apply emerging search practices
• Ability to translate search data and insights into clear, actionable recommendations for both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong critical thinking and attention to detail
• Strong presentation skills and comfort communicating with senior and cross-functional stakeholders
• Understanding of the buyer’s journey and how search behavior maps to content and conversion
• Collaborative, proactive, and consultative approach to working with colleagues across the firm
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Workfront or similar)

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Flexible Time Off and various pre-determined holidays
• 401(k) plan and flexible benefits plans
• Business-related travel expense, lodging, and meal reimbursement
• Pension plan for eligible administrative and paraprofessional staff
• Discretionary bonus plan for eligible staff
• Option to elect health insurance and limited paid sick time for some contingent staff positions

Pay

The compensation range for this role in CO, IL, OH, and MA is $60,000.00 - $90,000.00.

Schedule

Plante Moran enjoys a “Workplace for Your Day” model, striving for flexibility and balance while staying true to a principally in-person model. Face-to-face interactions are prioritized for individual and collective development, but staff are encouraged to work with their supervisor and team to determine their optimal working environment each day.