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Privacy Attorney Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Yahoo Inc.

Privacy Counsel

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$122.25 - $255/hr

We believe the best privacy lawyers don't just identify risk, they help build products.## ****About the Role****Yahoo is seeking an experienced Privacy Counsel to support and design privacy ...

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Privacy Attorney information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$154.5K

$240.3K

How much do privacy attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 privacy attorney do?

A Privacy Attorney specializes in laws and regulations related to data privacy and protection. They advise organizations on compliance with privacy laws such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA, draft and review privacy policies, and help manage data breaches or regulatory investigations. Privacy Attorneys also represent clients in legal proceedings involving data security and ensure that companies implement practices to safeguard personal information. Their role is crucial as privacy regulations continue to evolve and impact businesses globally.

What does a privacy attorney do?

A privacy attorney is responsible for advising clients on their legal responsibilities regarding compliance with national and international privacy laws and data security. As a privacy attorney, you may work as counsel to a specific business or work for a firm that is contracted to provide these services for numerous clients. Your duties include drafting policies and contracts that conform to regulatory law, writing and reviewing company statements and privacy policies for customers, and handling the legal ramifications of privacy breaches or failures to comply with legal obligations.

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

To thrive as a Privacy Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and in-depth knowledge of privacy laws such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA. Familiarity with legal research platforms, data protection management tools, and relevant privacy certifications like CIPP/US or CIPP/E is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel when advising clients and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring legal compliance, managing risk, and safeguarding sensitive information in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

What are some common challenges privacy attorneys face when advising organizations on data protection compliance?

Privacy Attorneys often encounter challenges in keeping up with evolving data privacy regulations across different jurisdictions, especially when advising organizations that operate internationally. They must interpret complex legal requirements and translate them into practical policies and procedures that fit the organization's specific operations. Additionally, balancing legal compliance with business objectives and technological innovation can be demanding, requiring strong collaboration with IT, compliance, and executive teams. Staying proactive about potential data breaches and training staff on privacy obligations are also ongoing responsibilities.

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

AspectPrivacy AttorneyData Privacy Specialist
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar AdmissionBachelor's or Master's in Law, Data Privacy Certifications (e.g., CIPP)
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesCorporate, consulting firms, tech companies, compliance departments
Employer & IndustryLegal industry, corporate sectors with legal teamsTechnology, healthcare, finance, and other data-driven industries
Search & Comparison IntentLegal advice, compliance, legal representationData protection, privacy policies, compliance programs

While both Privacy Attorneys and Data Privacy Specialists focus on data protection, Privacy Attorneys primarily provide legal advice, handle compliance issues, and represent clients in legal matters. Data Privacy Specialists implement privacy policies, manage data security measures, and ensure organizational compliance. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in legal responsibilities versus operational data management.

More about Privacy Attorney jobs

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

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Cities in California with the most Privacy Attorney job openings:

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Privacy Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Privacy Attorney job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $154,542 per year, or $74.3 per hour.

Data Privacy Associate - Oakland

Alameda, CA • Hybrid

Direct Counsel
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Direct Counselexternal

$170K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

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.