WHAT IS AN ad ops specialist jobs
An ad ops specialist, also known as an advertising operations specialist, is a professional who plays a crucial role in the digital advertising industry. Their main responsibility is to manage and optimize online advertising campaigns to ensure they run smoothly and effectively. In simple terms, they are responsible for the technical aspects of advertising, such as ad trafficking, campaign setup, and troubleshooting, to ensure that ads are delivered to the right audience at the right time. Ad ops specialists work closely with ad agencies, publishers, and advertisers to ensure that advertising campaigns meet their objectives and deliver the desired results.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION
In an ad ops specialist role, there are several key tasks and responsibilities that are typically performed. These include:
1. Ad Trafficking: Ad ops specialists are responsible for trafficking ads, which involves setting up and managing ad campaigns within an ad server. They ensure that the correct ads are assigned to the right ad placements and target the appropriate audience.
2. Campaign Setup: Ad ops specialists work closely with clients, ad agencies, and publishers to set up and launch advertising campaigns. This involves creating campaign specifications, implementing tracking codes, and configuring targeting parameters.
3. Optimization: Ad ops specialists continuously monitor and optimize ad campaigns to maximize their performance. This includes analyzing campaign data, adjusting targeting parameters, and making strategic recommendations to improve campaign effectiveness.
4. Troubleshooting: When issues arise with ad campaigns, ad ops specialists are responsible for troubleshooting and resolving technical problems. This may involve investigating tracking discrepancies, troubleshooting creative issues, or resolving delivery issues.
5. Reporting and Analysis: Ad ops specialists generate regular reports on campaign performance, providing insights and recommendations to clients and stakeholders. They analyze data to identify trends, optimize campaigns, and make informed decisions to drive better results.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR POSITION
To excel in an ad ops specialist role, there are several key skills that are highly valued by employers. These include:
1. Technical Proficiency: Ad ops specialists must have a strong understanding of digital advertising technologies, including ad servers, ad exchanges, and ad networks. They should be familiar with HTML, JavaScript, and other web technologies.
2. Attention to Detail: Ad ops specialists need to be detail-oriented to ensure that ads are set up correctly and campaigns run smoothly. They must carefully review campaign specifications, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure accurate ad placement.
3. Analytical Skills: Ad ops specialists should have strong analytical skills to interpret campaign data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions. They should be able to analyze performance metrics, optimize campaigns, and provide actionable insights.
4. Communication Skills: Ad ops specialists often work with multiple stakeholders, including clients, ad agencies, and publishers. Strong communication skills are essential to effectively collaborate, explain technical concepts, and provide updates on campaign performance.
5. Problem-Solving Abilities: Ad ops specialists encounter various technical challenges and issues in their day-to-day work. They need to be able to think critically, troubleshoot problems, and find innovative solutions to ensure campaign success.
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST
To become an ad ops specialist, there are several steps you can take:
1. Education: A bachelor's degree in marketing, advertising, business, or a related field can provide a strong foundation for a career in ad operations. Courses in digital marketing, analytics, and web technologies can be particularly beneficial.
2. Gain Relevant Experience: Look for internships or entry-level positions in digital advertising, marketing, or ad operations. This will allow you to gain practical experience and familiarize yourself with industry tools and processes.
3. Develop Technical Skills: Familiarize yourself with ad serving platforms, such as Google Ad Manager, and other digital advertising technologies. Gain proficiency in HTML, JavaScript, and other web technologies commonly used in ad operations.
4. Stay Updated: The digital advertising industry is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay updated on industry trends, new technologies, and best practices. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations, and follow industry blogs and publications.
5. Network: Networking can be valuable in the ad ops field. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and connect with professionals in the industry. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities and valuable insights.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for an ad ops specialist varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the company. According to data from Glassdoor, the average base salary for ad ops specialists in the United States is around $60,000 per year. However, salaries can range from $40,000 to $90,000 or more, depending on the individual's skills, qualifications, and the demands of the role.
ROLES AND TYPES
Ad ops specialists can work in various settings, including ad agencies, publishers, advertising networks, and technology companies. Some common roles within ad operations include:
1. Ad Operations Manager: This role involves overseeing the entire ad operations process, managing a team of ad ops specialists, and ensuring the successful execution of advertising campaigns.
2. Ad Trafficker: Ad traffickers are responsible for setting up and managing ad campaigns within ad servers. They ensure that ads are correctly assigned to the right placements and target the appropriate audience.
3. Ad Operations Analyst: Ad operations analysts focus on analyzing campaign data, generating reports, and providing insights and recommendations to optimize campaign performance.
4. Programmatic Specialist: Programmatic specialists focus on managing programmatic advertising campaigns, which involve automated buying and selling of ad inventory. They work with demand-side platforms (DSPs) and supply-side platforms (SSPs) to optimize programmatic campaigns.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Ad ops specialist jobs can be found in various locations throughout the United States. Some of the cities with a high demand for ad ops specialists include:
1. New York City, NY: As a major hub for the advertising industry, New York City offers numerous opportunities for ad ops specialists.
2. San Francisco, CA: With its strong presence of technology companies and startups, San Francisco is another city where ad ops jobs are in high demand.
3. Los Angeles, CA: The entertainment industry in Los Angeles drives the need for ad ops specialists, particularly in digital advertising for film and television.
4. Chicago, IL: Chicago has a thriving advertising industry and is home to many ad agencies, making it a popular location for ad ops jobs.
5. Boston, MA: Boston's strong presence in the technology and healthcare sectors creates a demand for ad ops specialists in these industries.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
Ad ops specialists use various tools and technologies to perform their job effectively. Some of the typical tools used in ad operations include:
1. Ad Servers: Ad servers, such as Google Ad Manager, allow ad ops specialists to manage and deliver ads to various platforms and devices.
2. Analytics Platforms: Tools like Google Analytics provide valuable insights into campaign performance, audience behavior, and conversion tracking.
3. Tag Management Systems: Tag management systems, such as Google Tag Manager, help simplify the process of implementing and managing tracking codes on websites.
4. Creative Management Platforms: Creative management platforms, like Celtra or DoubleClick Studio, enable ad ops specialists to create and manage rich media and interactive ad formats.
5. Verification and Fraud Prevention Tools: Ad ops specialists use tools like Integral Ad Science or DoubleVerify to ensure ad viewability, prevent ad fraud, and maintain brand safety.
IN CONCLUSION
Ad ops specialists play a vital role in the digital advertising industry, managing and optimizing ad campaigns to ensure they reach the right audience and deliver desired results. With the right skills, education, and experience, you can pursue a successful career as an ad ops specialist. Stay updated on industry trends, develop technical proficiency, and build a strong network to enhance your chances of success in this dynamic and in-demand field.