Onward Search is a specialized staffing and talent solutions company that helps professionals find top jobs with the nation’s leading brands. We’re hiring an SEO Specialist for a full time contract, fixed-term hybrid role in Ventura, California. • Rate: $35-45/hr (W2) • Location: Hybrid in Ventura, CA (3 days a week) • Duration: ASAP - End of Nov (could extend) SEO Specialist Responsibilities: • Conduct ongoing and ad hoc page, topic, and keyword trend analysis; perform continuous keyword research; monitor and track keyword and page ranking progress. • Review onsite traffic pathing, user behavior, and cross-channel search entry patterns across Google, Bing, social search, and AI platforms. • Partner with third-party agencies to research and develop technical SEO requirements, document and create tech tickets in JIRA, and prepare content briefs that reflect SEO best practices and keyword needs. • Ensure SEO requirements are met before launch; audit experiences in staging environments before going live; document discrepancies and required changes. • Provide SEO inputs for site taxonomy files on an ongoing basis and during seasonal site updates. • Collaborate with merchandising and web teams on category audits, URL recommendations, and seasonal product page optimizations. • Define seasonal SEO asset needs to support product and brand launches, including copy blocks, metadata, and article content. • Stay current with industry updates; proactively document program impacts; analyze competitor search landscapes and SERP experiences. SEO Specialist Qualifications: • Proficiency in Google Search Console, Google Ads Keyword Planner, and keyword tracking tools such as SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Moz. • Strong understanding of on-page, off-page, and technical SEO best practices. • Experience with schema markup, HTML, and metadata optimization. • Skilled in Google Analytics 4, Adobe Analytics 4, and other analytics platforms to interpret organic traffic patterns, site pathing, and engagement metrics. • Ability to translate data insights into actionable recommendations for content, UX, and development teams. • Experience creating and briefing SEO-optimized content aligned with keyword strategy. • Familiarity with content management systems such as Adobe Experience Manager, WordPress, or Shopify. • Ability to document SEO requirements and create tickets in JIRA or similar project management tools. • Experience with QA and UAT processes, identifying SEO issues before launch. • Ability to conduct competitor SERP audits, monitor industry changes, and adapt strategies accordingly. • Knowledge of emerging SEO trends, AI in search, and evolving algorithms. • Proven ability to work cross-functionally with marketing, web development, UX, and merchandising teams. • Strong communication skills to convey SEO recommendations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. • Experience in eCommerce or retail brand environments (preferred). Perks & Benefits: • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance. • Life Insurance. • 401(k) Program. • Commuter Benefit. • eLearning. • Education Reimbursement. • Ongoing Training & Development. • Eligibility requires working over 30 hours per week on an assignment lasting at least 10 weeks. If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, apply today! Our team will connect with you to discuss next steps, support you through the interview process, and advocate for your success.