SEO Applied Researcher

Join the Herd at The Zebra: Shape the Future of Insurance Shopping

The Zebra is revolutionizing how people research and shop for insurance. We’re building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels welcome and valued. We believe in “All Stripes Welcome,” embracing diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our team members (we call them “Zeebs”) are passionate about learning, growing, and collaborating to solve exciting challenges.

SEO Research Analyst: Uncover Insights & Drive Growth

We’re seeking a talented and driven SEO Research Analyst to join our dynamic team. In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of uncovering new trends, understanding consumer behaviors, and identifying industry shifts in the insurance market. You’ll transform these insights into compelling content that drives organic visibility, establishes brand authority, and empowers consumers to make informed insurance decisions.

Location: Remote within the U.S., Austin, TX (Hybrid Options Available)

Please Note: At this time we are not able to hire in California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and New York.

What You’ll Do

• Own the end-to-end SEO research pipeline: from ideation and data gathering to analysis and polished publication.
• Collaborate with SEO strategists, content designers, and brand storytellers to create search-optimized and shareable content.
• Identify and validate data sources, including internal data, public datasets, surveys, and third-party tools.
• Develop repeatable methodologies to ensure credible, consistent, and scalable research.
• Monitor the performance of published research (rankings, links, engagement) and refine future projects based on performance metrics.
• Serve as the in-house R&D function for SEO, exploring new data sets and innovative storytelling approaches.

What We’re Looking For

• 4+ years of experience in SEO, data journalism, applied research, or a related field.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to wrangle data and tell a compelling story.
• Comfort with both qualitative research (surveys, consumer insights) and quantitative data analysis (Excel, SQL, Python/R a plus).
• Proven experience publishing SEO content that ranks well and attracts backlinks.
• Ability to translate complex findings into clear, engaging narratives for a consumer audience.
• Ability to research and analyze seasonal patterns specific to the insurance industry.
• Proficiency with SEO tools (Ahrefs, SEMrush, Screaming Frog, Google Analytics, Search Console).
• Solid understanding of technical SEO fundamentals (site architecture, page speed, mobile optimization, structured data).
• Experience with keyword research and competitive analysis.
• Curiosity, creativity, and a bias for action – you’re eager to test, learn, and iterate quickly.

Bonus Points

• Background in economics, journalism, behavioral science, or another research-heavy discipline.
• Familiarity with AI-assisted research workflows.
• Experience collaborating with design and brand teams to create visually compelling insights.
• Understanding of the auto insurance customer journey and decision-making factors.
• Knowledge of the insurance regulatory landscape and its impact on content strategy.
• Experience with high-competition, high-value keywords typical in insurance verticals.
• Familiarity with insurance comparison shopping behavior and intent signals.

Our Interview Process

• Recruiter Interview
• Hiring Manager Interview
• Final Panel Interview

Benefits & Perks: We’ve Got You Covered

We believe in creating inclusive and healthy environments where everyone can thrive. We offer a wide range of benefits and perks to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Competitive Compensation & Stock Option Offering
• Comprehensive Health, Dental, Vision & Disability Coverages
• End Early Fridays (wrap up work at 2pm CST on Fridays!)
• Sabbatical program for tenured employees
• HSA offering + employer contribution
• Fertility support through Carrot
• $100 monthly wellness perk
• $300 pet reimbursement program
• 401k with match
• Unlimited PTO (paid time off) + flexibility to enjoy it
• Paid Parental Leave Program
• Learning & Development Opportunities
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

The base salary range for this position is $77,000 – $85,000 per year. The final salary will be determined based on a variety of factors, including experience, skills, internal equity, and insights gained during the interview process.

About The Zebra: Insurance in Black and White

The Zebra is the nation’s leading independent insurance comparison site. Since 2012, we’ve been dedicated to bringing transparency and simplicity to insurance shopping. Our dynamic, real-time quote comparison tool helps consumers identify insurance companies with the right coverage, service, and pricing for their unique needs.

We’ve been recognized and invested in by some of the nation’s top venture capitalists. Check out our awards & recognition!

At The Zebra, “All Stripes Welcome.” We are committed to maintaining an inclusive and diverse workforce. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities who need assistance during the job application or interview process.