Marketing Automation Specialist

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 a Marketing Automation Specialist for a remote opportunity based out of North Chicago, Illinois. This is a six-month contract opportunity. The position is fully remote and open to candidates based in the continental U.S. who are eligible to work on a W-2 without the need for sponsorship.

Our leading biopharmaceutical client is seeking a Marketing Automation Specialist (SFMC) to design and deliver personalized, 1:1 marketing experiences in Salesforce Marketing Cloud. This role plays a critical part in building data-driven, omnichannel programs that reach the right audience at the right time with the right message.

There is no application deadline for this role.

Marketing Automation Specialist Responsibilities:

• Build, test, and execute complex brand programs in SFMC, including journeys, cadences, and advanced trigger-based campaigns across email, SMS, direct mail, and media.
• Ensure on-time, error-free execution of campaigns by following QA processes, developing QC documentation, and maintaining compliance with departmental policies.
• Monitor email performance across domains, resolve IP reputation issues, and optimize inbox placement to maximize deliverability and engagement.
• Implement personalization, segmentation, and dynamic content strategies. Run test plans, analyze results, and proactively recommend optimization opportunities.
• Work cross-functionally with Brand Marketing, Strategy, Analytics, Creative, Digital Agencies, and Technology teams to design, execute, and continuously improve campaigns.
• Troubleshoot campaign, data, or deliverability issues; identify root causes; and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain process documentation and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Stay current on email marketing trends, technologies, and best practices. Provide recommendations to leadership on innovation opportunities.
• Deliver strong client service, manage expectations, communicate risks, and provide updates to stakeholders and leadership.

Marketing Automation Specialist Qualifications:

• Salesforce Marketing Cloud Email Specialist Certification.
• 5–8 years of experience in Database Marketing, CRM, Email, Digital, Direct Mail, or 1:1 marketing.
• At least 5 years of hands-on SFMC campaign-building experience.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Strong strategic thinking with proven ability to execute and exceed goals.
• Experience managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent project management and client service skills, with ability to engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Solid knowledge of database, email, and digital marketing best practices.
• Analytical and curious mindset with strong problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, SQL, HTML, and CSS.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Perks & Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Life Insurance.
• 401(k) Program.
• Commuter Benefit.
• eLearning.
• Education Reimbursement.
• Ongoing Training & Development.

*To qualify for our benefits package, you must work over 30 hours per week and the length of assignment must be a minimum of 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.

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About Onward Search

Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing, and technology professionals. We work with our nationwide clients to continuously pipeline and fill specialized roles. As such, not all jobs contain an application deadline.

Equal Opportunity Employment

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected category. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment.

EOE/M/F/D/V/SO

Inclusive Hiring Practices

We’re committed to making every part of our hiring process accessible and inclusive. If you need any accommodations or adjustments to support you during the application or interview process, please contact us at inclusivehiring@onwardsearch.com.

Employment Eligibility

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. We are unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp / Independent Contractor arrangements. All freelancers will be hired as W2 employees.

Benefits

We offer medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a 401(k) retirement plan to all eligible full-time temporary employees. Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.

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Virtual Interview Process

To help streamline the hiring process and ensure a more flexible and accessible experience for all candidates, we’ve partnered with Apriora, a virtual interviewing platform. For select job openings, you may receive an invitation to interview with Alex, our virtual interviewer, via email at alex@onwardsearch.com.

Alex will guide you through a brief set of questions to help us better understand your background and interests. The virtual interview can be completed on your own time, and your responses will be reviewed by our recruiting team as part of the screening process.

To learn more about the platform, visit Apriora’s website.

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Job Seeker Scam Alert

We’ve become aware of fraudulent recruiters impersonating Onward Search representatives to collect personal or financial information from potential job seekers. Please be vigilant and always protect your information. Learn more about potential threats and how to protect yourself by visiting our job seeker scam alert page.