Marketing Applied Researcher

Introduction:

The Zebra revolutionizes how connected consumers research and shop for insurance. We intentionally strive to build diverse teams that feel inclusive for all. Our motto is "All Stripes Welcome," we put that into practice by valuing traditional and non-conventional backgrounds and perspectives. Our Zeebs are passionate about learning, growing, & working together to tackle exciting problems.

About the Role:

This role sits at the intersection of research, publishing, and growth. You’ll design and lead monthly research projects that uncover new trends, consumer behaviors, and industry shifts — then turn those into compelling content that drives organic visibility and brand authority

Location:

Our employees can choose to work remotely in the U.S. Join us in our Austin, Texas office, or opt for a hybrid setup. Whether you prefer the structure of an office, the convenience of remote work, or a mix of both, we support what works best for you!

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

What You'll Do:

This role sits at the intersection of research, publishing, and growth. You’ll design and lead monthly research projects that uncover new trends, consumer behaviors, and industry shifts — then turn those into compelling content that drives organic visibility and brand authority

• Own the monthly SEO research pipeline — from idea → data gathering → analysis → polished publication.

• Partner with SEO strategists, content designers, and brand storytellers to package research into search-friendly, share-worthy pages.

• Identify and validate data sources (internal, public datasets, surveys, third-party tools) that can fuel our research.

• Develop repeatable methodologies so our research is credible, consistent, and scalable.

• Monitor how published research performs (rankings, links, engagement) and refine future projects based on what works.

• Be the in-house R&D function for SEO: pushing us to explore new data sets and storytelling approaches

What We're Looking For:

• 4+ years experience in SEO, data journalism, applied research, or a related field

• Strong analytical skills — you can wrangle data and tell a story with it

• Comfort with both qualitative research (surveys, consumer insights) and quantitative data analysis (Excel, SQL, Python/R a plus)

• Experience publishing SEO content that ranks and earns links

• Ability to translate complex findings into clear, engaging narratives

• Ability to research and analyze seasonal patterns specific to insurance

• Proficiency with SEO tools (Ahrefs, SEMrush, Screaming Frog, Google Analytics, Search Console)

• 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 toward shipping — you’re not afraid to test and learn in public

Experience that will Impress the Heck Out of Us:

• 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 package insights visually

• Understanding of auto insurance customer journey and decision-making factors (coverage types, deductibles, state requirements)

• Knowledge of insurance regulatory landscape and how it impacts content strategy across different states

• Experience with high-competition, high-value keywords typical in insurance verticals

• Familiarity with insurance comparison shopping behavior and intent signals

Interview Process:

• Recruiter Interview

• Hiring Manager Interview

• Final Panel Interview

Benefits & Perks:

Inclusive and healthy environments are crafted intentionally. All of our employees can join and participate in (or create your own!) Employee Resource Groups. Here are some other wonderful perks of working here:

• Competitive Compensation & Stock Option Offering

• 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

• Join a team that truly lives their values (outside of the office. Cliche, we know… but we really mean it)

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

About The Zebra:

The Zebra is the nation’s leading, independent insurance comparison site. With our dynamic, real-time quote comparison tool, consumers can identify insurance companies with the coverage, service level, and pricing to suit their unique needs. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, The Zebra has sought to bring transparency and simplicity to insurance shopping since 2012 -- it's “insurance in black and white.”

We've garnered the attention and investment of some of the nation’s top venture capitalists. Check out all of our awards & recognition!

Our core mantra is "All Stripes Welcome." As part of our dedication 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 will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform core job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation!