Local SEO Specialist for Service Area Businesses (SABs)

Job Title: Local SEO Specialist for Service Area Businesses (SABs)
Job Description:
I run a small but growing digital agency that helps businesses improve their online visibility. We primarily work with Service Area Businesses (SABs). I’m looking for a reliable and experienced Local SEO Specialist to optimize Google My Business (now Google Business Profile), manage local listings, improve organic visibility for local businesses, and deliver clear, concise reports.
 

 
Key Responsibilities


• Local Search Grid Tracking & AnalysisFamiliarity with tools that provide grid-based local search insights (e.g., BrightLocal’s Local Search Grid, Local Viking’s GeoGrid, etc.).
• Google Business Profile (GBP) OptimizationClaim, verify & optimize Google Business Profiles for multiple clients (update info, posts, photos, etc.), especially for SABs.
• Local Link Building & Location Page SetupImplement local link-building strategies and develop/optimize location pages to enhance local relevance.
• Local Citation Building & CleanupEnsure consistency across various local directories (NAP consistency).
• Keyword Research & Competitor AnalysisIdentify local-intent keywords and analyze competitors using tools like Google Keyword Planner, BrightLocal, Ahrefs, or SEMrush.
• On-Page Local SEOOptimize meta tags, headers, and content for local relevance.
• Review ManagementDevelop strategies for acquiring and responding to reviews on Google and other platforms.
• Reporting & InsightsProvide regular, easy-to-understand reports on local rankings, traffic, and leads with recommendations for continuous improvement.
 

 
Must-Have Skills & Experience


• Proven Experience in Local SEOMust show examples or case studies demonstrating improved local rankings and increased leads—especially for Service Area Businesses.
• GBP ExpertiseDeep understanding of post optimization, map pack ranking factors, and spam-fighting strategies.
• Local Search Grid ToolsExperience using grid-based local search tracking (BrightLocal, Local Viking, etc.).
• Analytics & ReportingFamiliarity with GA4, Google Search Console, or other relevant reporting tools for local SEO tracking.
• Strong Communication SkillsAbility to clearly explain local SEO strategies and progress to me and clients.
 

 
Nice-to-Have (Not Essential)


• Link-building experience (local community outreach, local press, etc.)
• Technical SEO for local businesses (structured data, site speed optimizations)
• Basic WordPress/website editing skills to implement on-page changes
• Experience with multi-location businesses and franchise SEO
 

 
What I Offer


• Ongoing WorkConsistent projects if we’re a good fit.
• Flexible HoursAs long as deadlines are met.
• Growth OpportunitiesPotential for increased compensation and larger projects as the agency grows.
• Timely PaymentsAlong with constructive feedback and clear communication.
 

 
How to Apply


• Introduce YourselfShare your background in Local SEO, especially for Service Area Businesses.
• Show Your ResultsProvide case studies or examples of sites/GBP optimizations you’ve worked on, detailing the improvements in rankings and visibility.
• Explain Your ProcessBriefly outline how you approach optimizing Google Business Profiles, building citations, and improving local search presence.
• Share Your RatesGive your hourly rate or typical project-based rate. Note that our initial budget may be modest, but we plan to increase as our agency grows.
• Tell Me Your ToolsList the tools you regularly use (BrightLocal, SEMrush, Ahrefs, etc.) for local SEO.
• MessageSo I know you’ve read this entire job post, please include the phrase “I rock at local SEO” at the top of your reply.
 

 
Next Steps


• Initial Video InterviewWe’ll schedule a quick call to discuss your experience and approach.
• 15-Minute Video Audit + SpreadsheetIf the interview goes well, I’ll ask you to conduct a 15-minute video audit (with an accompanying spreadsheet) of a local, service-based business in a location of my choosing. This will help me assess your practical skills and reporting style.
 

 
Note: Although I’ve listed an hourly rate range of $5.00 - $10.00, I’m open to discussing a monthly fixed arrangement after we determine mutual fit and project scope.
If you believe you’re the right fit and want to help us boost local visibility for our clients, I look forward to hearing from you soon!