Search Engine Marketing Manager (Paid Media, Contract)

Location: Manhattan, NY or Chicago, IL (Remote US based considered for non-local exceptional candidates only)Schedule: Prefer fully onsite, open to Hybrid (3 days onsite) during contract; must switch to fully onsite (5 days) upon conversion to permanent hireDuration: 1-year contract (Contract-to-Hire)Hours: Full-timeCompensation Range: $62.00 - $70.00/hr W2We are seeking a Senior Associate-level Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Manager to join our In-House Paid Media team. This is a hands-on, autonomous role where you will act as a consultant for two major travel accounts: a bookings-focused platform for credit cardholders and a lead-based global travel management company.This is a Contract-to-Hire position intended for candidates seeking a long-term career move. We are looking for a search expert who can manage multi-million dollar annual budgets ($5M-$15M) and execute full-lifecycle strategies without needing to hand off tasks to other teams.Responsibilities:Autonomous Account Management: Fully own the search lifecycle for two distinct accounts, managing everything from strategy and goal-setting to hands-on platform execution.Platform Execution: Perform daily hands-on management within Google Ads and Search Ads 360 (SA360).Strategic Testing: Build and execute robust test-and-learn plans to drive innovation and performance.Financial Management: Oversee all financial aspects of search programs, including forecasting and budget reconciliation.Stakeholder Relations: Regularly communicate with and present performance data to senior business stakeholders with poise and professional confidence. Qualifications:Experience: 4-7 years of professional experience, specifically focused on Paid Search (Note: SEO-only backgrounds will not be considered).Agency/In-House Background: Proven success in managing search within an agency or internal corporate search team.Budget Oversight: Demonstrated experience managing high-spend, multi-million dollar annual campaigns ($5M-$15M range).Technical Proficiency: Advanced expertise in Google Ads and Search Ads 360. Google Ads certification is required.Industry Preference: Background in E-commerce, Financial Services, or Pharma is highly preferred.Mindset: A self-starter with good job tenure who is looking to convert into a permanent, full-time role.JOBID: 052026-131806#PLEqual Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.At Cella, a randstad digital company, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact HRsupport@randstadusa.com.Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Cella by randstad digital offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility).This posting is open for thirty (30) days.It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.