SEM Specialist
Job Title: SEM Specialist
Location: Remote
Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Head of Media Technology
About Surface
We are a start up, performance-driven marketing agency focused on helping local businesses grow through smarter digital strategies. We specialize in driving real-world results — store visits, bookings, and phone calls — for brick-and-mortar establishments with a focus on incremental growth. We also support a select group of e-commerce clients looking to scale with efficient paid media.
The Role
We’re looking for a hands-on SEM Specialist who thrives in a fast-paced environment and loves diving into the details. You’ll own the execution of all paid search campaigns across clients. Writing the ads, optimizing the budgets, testing copy, analyzing performance, and making real-time decisions to drive results. You’ll report to the Head of Media Technology and play a critical role in turning strategy into impact. This is a roll-up-your-sleeves role for someone who doesn’t need to be micromanaged. You should be curious, resourceful, and ready to take full ownership of your work from day one.
What You’ll Do
Creating and managing a book of paid search campaigns (SEM, PMAX, Display, Video) across Google and Microsoft Ads
Keyword research and expansion, ad copy creation, competitive benchmarking, bid management and budget pacing of accounts
Monitor pacing, performance, tracking, and KPIs across accounts
Analyze campaign performance using a variety of programs including GA4, client first-party data, and Surface proprietary tools
Collaborate with the Head of Media Technology to execute strategic goals and client
KPIs. Work closely with the creative department on new concepts for creative and copy.
Prepare clear, actionable reports and insights for internal and client use
Stay sharp on industry trends, platform changes, and new tools
2–4 years of SEM experience in a hands-on, executional role (agency or freelance)
Proficient with Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, and Google Analytics
Strong analytical thinker who enjoys solving problems and iterating fast
Exceptional attention to detail
Confident communicator who can work independently and manage multiple tasks
Comfortable in a startup environment: things move fast, priorities shift, and you figure things out as you go
Eager to grow, take ownership, and try new things
Who You Are
2–4 years of SEM experience in a hands-on, executional role (agency or freelance) ● Proficient with Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, and Google Analytics
Strong analytical thinker who enjoys solving problems and iterating fast ● Exceptional attention to detail
Confident communicator who can work independently and manage multiple tasks
Comfortable in a startup environment: things move fast, priorities shift, and you figure things out as you go
Eager to grow, take ownership, and try new things
Bonus Points For
Experience with Meta Ads and other social channels
Strong writing skills
Understanding of retail business campaign strategies and implementations
Salary commensurate with experience. Employer-provided healthcare plan including medical, vision and dental.