How Much Does a Google Ads Specialist Make?

This article is true for most Google Ads specialists that are Google certified and work for someone else. However, you get what you pay for and you will probably not get the results you are looking for if you hire an agency that employs people to manage your Google Ads account.

Understand the earning potential of a Google Ads Specialist, factors that influence salaries, and strategies to maximize income.

Factors Influencing a Google Ads Specialist’s Salary

• Experience Level:
  • Entry-Level Specialists: Typically earn less while building skills and portfolios.
  • Mid-Level Specialists: With 2-5 years of experience, they command higher salaries due to proven expertise.
  • Senior Specialists: Professionals with over five years of experience and a successful track record earn top-tier salaries.
• Location:
  • Salaries vary significantly based on geographic location, with specialists in major cities or high-cost areas earning more.
  • Remote work opportunities may also impact pay scales.
• Industry:
  • Industries like e-commerce, finance, and technology often offer higher salaries due to larger marketing budgets.
• Certifications and Skills:
  • Certifications like Google Ads Certification and Google Analytics can boost earning potential. Be very careful if you hire someone with Google Ads Certification. I go more into this on my About Me page.
  • Skills in copywriting, data analysis, and conversion optimization are highly valued.
• Freelance vs. In-House vs. Agency Work:
  • Freelancers: Charge hourly or project fees, offering flexibility but less stability.
  • In-House Specialists: Work directly for one company, with steady salaries and benefits.
  • Agency Specialists: Manage multiple client accounts, with potential performance-based bonuses.

Average Salaries for Google Ads Specialists

Here’s a breakdown of average salaries based on location and experience:

United States

• Entry-Level: $40,000 - $55,000 per year
• Mid-Level: $55,000 - $75,000 per year
• Senior-Level: $75,000 - $100,000+ per year

United Kingdom

• Entry-Level: £20,000 - £30,000 per year
• Mid-Level: £30,000 - £45,000 per year
• Senior-Level: £45,000 - £60,000+ per year

Australia

• Entry-Level: AUD 50,000 - AUD 70,000 per year
• Mid-Level: AUD 70,000 - AUD 90,000 per year
• Senior-Level: AUD 90,000 - AUD 120,000+ per year

Freelancers

• Hourly Rates: $25 - $100+ per hour, depending on experience and location.
• Project Fees: $500 - $5,000+ for campaign management, depending on scope.

How to Increase Your Earnings as a Google Ads Specialist

• Build a Strong Portfolio: Showcase successful campaigns with performance metrics like CTR, conversion rates, and ROAS. However, I do not disclose client information.
• Gain Certifications: Most people would recommend you obtain Google Ads Certifications and other relevant credentials to demonstrate expertise. I personally do not recommend it.
• Specialize in High-Demand Niches: Focus on industries with larger budgets, such as e-commerce, healthcare, or technology.
• Expand Your Skill Set: Most people would recommend that you learn complementary skills like SEO, content marketing, and analytics to provide more value. I prefer to specialize.
• Network and Market Yourself: Use LinkedIn, forums, and industry events to connect with clients or employers.
• Deliver Consistent Results: Build a reputation for driving measurable results, such as increased leads or ROI, to command higher pay.