If you’re an SEO pro looking for an exciting career in the Windy City, you’re in luck! Chicago’s booming tech scene has created a hot job market for SEO specialists. With major companies across industries establishing strongholds here, the demand for search engine optimization experts is soaring.
From global consulting firms and Fortune 500 corporations to innovative startups and digital marketing agencies, Chicago has no shortage of employers seeking SEO talent. The city’s central location and diverse economy provide a rich landscape for SEO career opportunities.
Simply put, companies large and small recognize the power of SEO for boosting online visibility, attracting qualified traffic, and driving business growth. In our digital age, a commanding web presence can make or break brands. That’s why top Chicago organizations are investing heavily in search engine optimization.
The e-commerce sector alone has been a major catalyst for SEO hiring. With Amazon and other major retailers headquartered in the Chicago area, the need for technical SEO, content marketing, and marketplace optimization skills is skyrocketing.
Speaking of content, Chicago is also home to world-class digital publishers and media companies that require SEO expertise. From news giants to online magazines, these content powerhouses rely on SEO professionals to increase readership and engagement.
So what kinds of SEO roles can you pursue in Chicago? The possibilities are endless, with opportunities in:
- Technical SEO (average salary: $85,000)
- SEO Content Strategy ($75,000)
- SEO Analytics & Reporting ($90,000)
- Enterprise SEO ($100,000+)
- SEO Project/Account Management ($80,000)
Of course, compensation can vary significantly based on experience, industry, and company size. But one thing is certain – Chicago offers lucrative SEO salaries compared to many other US cities.
Job seekers will also find diverse work environments to explore, from major marketing/advertising firms to boutique SEO consultancies. Many Chicago companies hire remote SEO staff as well.
With such a high demand for SEO skills, the job market is undoubtedly competitive. To give yourself an edge:
- Build expertise through training, certifications, and hands-on experience
- Develop specialized skills (e.g. technical SEO, local SEO, e-commerce SEO)
- Stay up-to-date on the latest search trends and algorithm updates
- Create an impressive portfolio showcasing your SEO successes
- Network by attending Chicago’s many digital marketing events
Job Boards and Career Sites
- Popular job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter frequently have SEO positions posted for companies across Chicago. Search for titles like “SEO Specialist“, “SEO Analyst“, “SEO Manager“, etc.
Company Career Pages
Go directly to the career/job pages of major companies and agencies in Chicago that are likely to need SEO talent. Some examples:
- Major corporations (Allstate, Walgreens, United Airlines)
- Digital marketing agencies (Spark Hire, Wpromote, Straight North)
- E-commerce companies (Grubhub, Groupon, Project Nursery)
- Publishers/media (Tribune, Wrapports, Shedd Aquarium)
Staffing Agencies
- Chicago has recruiting agencies that specialize in placing SEO and digital marketing professionals with companies. A few options are Parqa, Mondo, and Apex Systems.
Networking Events
- Chicago has a vibrant SEO/digital marketing community. Attend meetups, conferences, and networking events to make connections and learn about job opportunities. Groups like SEMrush, SEO Grail, and Search Engine Speakers hold regular events.
College Career Centers
- If you’re a recent graduate, check the career services at local universities and colleges like the University of Chicago, Northwestern, DePaul, and Loyola for potential SEO openings.
Your Connections
- Leverage your professional network on LinkedIn or in person. Chicago SEOs are often willing to refer top talent to companies they work with or have connections at.
The key is utilizing multiple channels – job boards, company postings, recruiters, events, and networking. With some persistence and effort, you can find an excellent SEO role in Chicago’s thriving job market.
The future looks bright for Chicago’s SEO employment landscape. By honing your skills and putting your best foot forward, you can land an exciting, rewarding SEO career in this dynamic city.
