Data Privacy Associate - Oakland

Job Description

Job Description

Data Privacy Attorney

Oakland, CA | Hybrid | 5+ Years Experience

Direct Counsel represents a growing, midsize law firm seeking an experienced and business-minded Data Privacy Attorney to join its expanding practice.

This is an exciting opportunity for a privacy attorney who enjoys counseling businesses on complex regulatory issues, emerging technologies, and practical risk management. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in California and U.S. privacy laws , with experience advising clients on cybersecurity, data governance, commercial contracts, and AI-related privacy issues.

The Role

• Advise clients on CCPA/CPRA, CPPA regulations, and state privacy laws .
• Draft and negotiate Data Processing Agreements (DPAs) , vendor agreements, and privacy provisions in commercial transactions and M&A.
• Advise on privacy policies, data retention, vendor risk assessments, and consumer rights/DSAR processes.
• Assist with cybersecurity incidents, breach notification requirements, and regulatory inquiries.
• Conduct Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs/DPIAs) and advise on privacy-by-design.
• Counsel product, marketing, and engineering teams on emerging technology and AI governance .
• Provide practical, risk-based guidance to corporate clients and executives.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of dedicated data privacy and cybersecurity legal experience in a law firm or corporate legal department.
• Active California Bar membership in good standing.
• Strong knowledge of CCPA/CPRA, CPPA regulations, GDPR, and state comprehensive privacy laws .
• Excellent contract drafting, negotiation, analytical, and client counseling skills.
• Ability to communicate complex privacy issues clearly to business leaders.
• CIPP/US or CIPM certification preferred.
• Experience with AI governance and emerging technology is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• $170,000–$195,000 , depending on experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Generous PTO and parental leave
• Professional development allowance, including IAPP dues and CLE coverage
• Strong opportunities for professional growth and leadership

Work Schedule

Oakland, CA

• First 90 days: Onsite, 5 days per week for onboarding, mentoring, and team integration
• After 90 days: Hybrid schedule — 3 days in-office / 2 days remote

This is an excellent opportunity for a privacy attorney looking to join a growing practice, work directly with sophisticated business clients, and play a key role in navigating the rapidly evolving privacy and AI regulatory landscape.