Programmatic Specialist

The Variable is a forward-thinking advertising agency focused on driving ownable differentiation for our clients. We believe the strongest results happen when brand and performance work together, creating ideas that break through, spend that works harder, and outcomes that multiply. With a dedication to innovation and strategic partnership, we work as true client partners to deliver creative that inspires, strategies that perform, and results that matter.POSITION SUMMARYAs Programmatic Specialist, you’ll be responsible for setting up, managing, and optimizing programmatic campaigns across client accounts. On our team, we believe that brand and performance don’t just coexist—they thrive together. You’ll be a trusted programmatic resource for the team, collaborating closely with planners, investment leads, analytics, and creative partners to make sure campaigns run seamlessly from start to finish.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Programmatic Execution & OptimizationSet up, manage, and optimize programmatic campaigns across platforms such as DV360, The Trade Desk, Cadent, Stackadapt and Amazon.Responsible for performance of managed service campaigns, if applicableMonitor pacing and delivery, providing optimization recommendations to ensure campaigns hit goals.Execute and manage private marketplace (PMP) and programmatic guaranteed (PG) dealsConduct ongoing QA across campaign set‑up, trafficking, and reporting to ensure flawless execution.Explore AI‑driven capabilities within DSPs to optimize bidding, targeting, and campaign performance.Partner with planners to align programmatic activations with broader omni‑channel strategies.Share performance insights and platform expertise that can help inform future strategies.Collaborate with analytics to measure results and translate data into clear takeaways.Work with ad ops and creative teams to traffic assets and ensure smooth campaign launches.Reporting & AnalysisBuild and maintain pacing and delivery reports for active campaigns.Assist in post‑campaign reporting and reconciliations, analyzing results to surface optimization opportunities.Stay current on programmatic trends, platform updates, and best practices to bring new thinking to the team.Contribute to agency knowledge‑sharing by helping others understand programmatic tools and capabilities.KEY TRAITSHands‑On Expert: Confident in DSP consoles and campaign execution.Detail‑Oriented Operator: Meticulous in QA, trafficking, and reporting.Analytical Problem Solver: Uses data and curiosity to optimize performance.Collaborative Teammate: Works seamlessly with planners, analytics, ad ops, and creative teams.Strategic Connector: Understands how executional details ladder up to broader client goals.QUALIFICATIONS2–4 years of experience in programmatic advertising, ad operations, or digital media execution.Hands‑on experience with DSPs such as DV360 and The Trade Desk (Amazon DSP a plus).Familiarity with setting up PMPs, PGs, and troubleshooting delivery issues.Strong skills in Excel (pivot tables, lookups, formulas) and comfort working with data.Experience with ad servers such as Campaign Manager 360 or similar.Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Advertising, Media, Marketing, or related field preferred.WE OFFERComprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, with strong employer contributions401(k) with a 4 percent employer match , immediately vestedMonthly, non-taxable cell phone reimbursementMeaningful bonus opportunities , including client referrals, employee referrals, and a peer-to-peer bonus program that gives you $1,000 each…