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Data Privacy Attorney Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Beacon Software Inc

Privacy Counsel

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... lawyer who wants to build something lasting, not just maintain the status quo. What You'll Do * Privacy Program Architecture : Build and own Beacon's enterprise data privacy program from inception.

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Data Privacy Attorney information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$154.5K

$240.3K

How much do data privacy attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for data privacy attorney in California is $154,542.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,800.00 and $193,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a data privacy attorney do?

A Data Privacy Attorney specializes in laws and regulations related to the collection, storage, and use of personal data. They advise organizations on compliance with privacy laws such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA, draft privacy policies, and help manage data breaches. They also represent clients in legal proceedings involving data privacy issues and provide guidance on best practices to protect sensitive information. Their role is crucial in helping companies minimize legal risks and maintain consumer trust.

What types of clients and industries do data privacy attorneys typically work with, and how does this impact their day-to-day responsibilities?

Data Privacy Attorneys often serve a diverse range of clients, including technology companies, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, and multinational corporations. This variety means your daily work may involve advising on compliance with multiple privacy laws (like GDPR or CCPA), drafting data processing agreements, and responding to data breaches. You'll frequently collaborate with IT, compliance, and executive teams to assess risks and implement privacy programs. The dynamic nature of client industries ensures that no two days are exactly alike, providing both challenge and opportunity for ongoing professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data privacy attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Privacy Attorney, you need a law degree (JD), bar admission, and deep knowledge of privacy laws such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA. Familiarity with privacy management software, data mapping tools, and relevant certifications like CIPP/US or CIPP/E is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting regulations and advising clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring legal compliance, protecting sensitive data, and minimizing risk for organizations.

What is the difference between Data Privacy Attorney vs Data Privacy Specialist?

AspectData Privacy AttorneyData Privacy Specialist
CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, privacy law certificationsRelevant certifications, such as CIPP, and specialized training
Work EnvironmentLegal firms, corporate legal departments, consulting firmsIT departments, compliance teams, privacy consulting firms
Employer & IndustryLegal industry, corporate sectors with data compliance needsTech companies, healthcare, finance, and data-driven industries
Search & Comparison IntentLegal responsibilities, compliance, legal adviceImplementing privacy policies, data management, technical compliance

While both roles focus on data privacy, a Data Privacy Attorney provides legal advice, handles compliance from a legal perspective, and may represent clients in legal matters. A Data Privacy Specialist focuses on implementing privacy policies, managing data security measures, and ensuring technical compliance within organizations.

How do you become a data privacy attorney?

To become a data privacy attorney, you typically need to earn a bachelor's degree followed by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. After passing the bar exam, gaining experience in privacy law, cybersecurity, or related fields is important, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) can enhance credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Privacy Attorney jobs in California?

The most popular types of Data Privacy Attorney jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Data Privacy Attorney jobs in California?

For Data Privacy Attorney jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Data Privacy Attorney jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Data Privacy Attorney jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Data Privacy Attorney jobs?

Cities in California with the most Data Privacy Attorney job openings:

Data Privacy Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Privacy Attorney job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $154,542 per year, or $74.3 per hour.

Cyber/Data/Privacy Attorney (Advisory)

Direct Counsel

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$310K - $420K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Cyber/Data/Privacy Associate Attorney – Advisory
Location: San Francisco, New York, or Washington, DC

Direct Counsel is seeking a Cyber/Data/Privacy Associate to join a nationally recognized law firm with a strong technology and regulatory practice. This opportunity is ideal for a mid-level associate who is interested in a counseling and advisory-focused role within a collaborative, global team.

The Cyber/Data/Privacy group works with a wide range of clients—from startups to public companies, including leaders in the technology, life sciences, media, and financial services sectors. Attorneys in this group advise on compliance with U.S. and international privacy laws (such as CCPA, CPRA, and GDPR), information security programs, incident response preparedness and execution, regulatory investigations, and the privacy aspects of corporate and commercial transactions.

Qualifications:

  • 4–7 years of relevant experience in cyber/data/privacy matters, gained at a law firm or in-house.

  • Demonstrated expertise in privacy law compliance, data breach response, and privacy diligence for corporate transactions.

  • Experience drafting and negotiating data processing agreements and privacy schedules in commercial contracts.

  • Strong academic credentials from a nationally recognized law school.

  • Excellent communication, analytical, and writing skills.

  • Ability to lead significant projects and engage directly with clients.

Compensation:
The expected annual salary range for this position is $310,000–$420,000, depending on location, experience, and qualifications.

Benefits:
The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefits; generous vacation and sick leave; paid holidays; parental and fertility benefits; and backup care support. New employees are provided a detailed orientation to learn about all available resources and benefits.