Data, Privacy, and Cybersecurity Associate

Job Overview:
A nationally recognized law firm is seeking a talented and experienced Associate Attorney with 3–5 years of relevant legal experience to join its Data, Privacy, and Cybersecurity Practice Group. This associate will advise industry-leading clients on complex issues involving global privacy regulations, cybersecurity compliance, consumer protection, artificial intelligence governance, and data breach response. The ideal candidate will have a passion for emerging technology, a regulatory mindset, and a commitment to delivering strategic legal guidance in a fast-paced environment.

Location:

• Palo Alto, CA

Duties:

• Advise clients on compliance with global privacy frameworks (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA)

• Represent clients in high-stakes investigations led by the FTC and state Attorneys General

• Provide guidance on data collection, usage, storage, and sharing practices

• Respond to cybersecurity incidents, advising on legal obligations and risk mitigation

• Draft and review privacy policies, cybersecurity protocols, and internal compliance programs

• Collaborate on the development of global risk management and compliance strategies

• Stay abreast of evolving regulations related to data protection, AI, and consumer rights

Requirements:

• 3–5 years of legal experience, preferably with a focus on privacy, cybersecurity, or regulatory compliance

• Experience working with technology sector clients or in government regulatory matters

• Prior involvement with FTC enforcement or state privacy law investigations preferred

• Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills

• Ability to work in a dynamic, high-performance environment

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school

• Strong academic credentials required

Certifications:

• Active bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction

• Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) designation preferred

Skills:

• Deep knowledge of privacy laws, cybersecurity regulations, and data protection best practices

• Understanding of AI and automated decision-making legal implications is a plus

• Familiarity with network technologies, computer programming, or database architecture is advantageous

• Strong client communication and team collaboration skills

• Analytical mindset with the ability to simplify complex regulatory matters

Benefits:

• Discretionary performance bonuses

• Monthly wellness reimbursements

• 24/7 emotional and behavioral health support

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage for employee, partner/spouse, and dependents

• Paid parental leave and family-building benefits (IVF, adoption, surrogacy, egg-freezing)

• Parenting support concierge and telemedicine access

• Backup childcare (in-home and center-based), tutoring, and academic coaching

• Health Savings Accounts with firm contributions and flexible spending accounts

• 401(k) retirement savings plan

• Pretax commuter and parking benefits

• Life, disability, and long-term care insurance options

• Voluntary benefits (critical illness, pet insurance, accident insurance, ID theft protection)

• Medicare consulting services

• Firm-paid CLE programs, bar exam fees, and bar dues

This Vault Law 100 and one of the Best Law Firm in the Emerging Companies & Venture Capital firm boasts cutting-edge clients, pleasant people, and a flexible work/life balance. The firm is a global player with very deep tech roots and has been ranked among the top 10 M&A advisors in the nation. As the premier provider of legal services to technology, life sciences, and growth enterprises worldwide, the firm is appealing to associates for fostering an entrepreneurial and collaborative environment across its attorney ranks, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, career growth, and building leadership and relationship skills with clients and colleagues. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.