Search Engine Optimization Specialist

Ascend Digital Agency, a leading digital marketing agency headquartered in Buffalo, NY, is seeking a strategic and results-driven SEO Specialist to join our growing team. In this role, you will develop and implement comprehensive SEO strategies that enhance search visibility,  navigate the changing search landscape, drive organic growth, and support our clients’ business objectives. You will play a key role in analyzing performance data, identifying opportunities, and executing data-driven optimizations to maximize search rankings, traffic, and conversions.

• Develop, implement, and refine comprehensive SEO strategies to improve organic search performance for agency clients.
• Conduct technical SEO audits and recommend optimizations for site speed, crawlability, indexing, and mobile usability.
• Perform keyword research to identify high-value opportunities and align content with search intent.
• Analyze SEO performance metrics using Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and third-party tools (SEMRush, Ahrefs, etc.).
• Collaborate with content and web development teams to ensure SEO best practices are integrated into website architecture, content creation, and design.
• Stay updated on algorithm changes, industry trends, and emerging SEO technologies to continuously refine strategies.
• Manage and optimize local SEO efforts, including Google Business Profile optimization and local citation building.
• Develop data-driven SEO reports with insights and strategic recommendations for continuous growth.
• Conduct competitive research to analyze industry trends, identify opportunities, and develop strategies to outperform competitors.
• Develop and execute link-building strategies, including outreach and backlink profile management to improve domain authority.
• Serve as the agency’s SEO expert and go-to resource, providing guidance, training, and insights to internal teams and clients.
• Implement and optimize SEO strategies for the agency’s own website and marketing initiatives to enhance online visibility and generate inbound leads.

• Deep understanding of on-page, off-page, and technical SEO best practices.
• Strong proficiency with SEO tools, such as Google Search Console, Google Analytics, SEMRush, Ahrefs, Screaming Frog, and other industry-leading tools.
• Experience with structured data implementation (schema markup) and technical website optimizations.
• Extensive knowledge of local SEO, including Google Business Profile, citations, and local ranking factors.



• Familiarity with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and WordPress SEO optimizations.
• Understanding of Core Web Vitals, page speed optimization, and site architecture best practices.
• Experience utilizing AI-powered SEO tools for keyword research, content optimization, data-driven insights, or other SEO-related tasks. 
  

• Strong ability to interpret SEO data, identify trends, and develop strategic recommendations.
• Experience setting up and managing SEO dashboards using Google Looker Studio, Excel, or other reporting tools.
• Strong analytical mindset with a focus on KPIs, conversions, and ROI-driven SEO.

• Ability to translate technical SEO concepts into clear, actionable insights for clients and team members.
• Experience collaborating with content writers, developers, and marketing teams to implement SEO best practices.
• Strong project management skills to prioritize tasks and manage multiple SEO initiatives.

• 3 - 5 years of hands-on SEO experience, preferably in an agency setting.
• Proven track record of successfully improving search rankings and organic traffic for multiple websites at a time in an agency or in-house setting.

• Proficiency with SEO and digital marketing tools (SEMRush, Screaming Frog, Google Search Console, etc.).
• Familiarity with project management tools (Zoho Projects) to track SEO tasks and progress.
• Proficiency with reporting platforms (Google Looker Studio) to properly track and communicate campaign results.

• Strong problem-solving mindset and ability to adapt to evolving SEO landscapes.
• Excellent time management skills to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Strong autonomy and independent work ethic, with the ability to manage and execute SEO strategies proactively.
• Proactive in identifying new opportunities for growth and innovation in SEO strategies and product offerings.

At Ascend Digital, we prioritize both personal and professional growth, with every decision guided by our core values:

• Accountability
• Solutions, Not Excuses
• Compassion
• Execution
• Never Stop Growing
• Do The Right Thing

This is an on-site position based at our office in Downtown Buffalo, NY, conveniently located near the city’s top amenities. Our office offers free parking, beautiful lakeside sightlines, and a collaborative work environment designed to inspire creativity and productivity.

• Competitive salary
• Opportunities for career growth and continuous professional development.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, 401k, and PTO.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Annual company retreat and periodic team-building events.