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Data Privacy Associate - Oakland

Direct Counsel

Alameda, CA 94501 • $170,000 to $195,000 / yr • 9/15/2026

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.