Associate General Counsel

Golden1; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 186,700 - 215,000; Full time

Job summary

Golden 1 Credit Union is seeking an Associate General Counsel to provide practical, risk-based legal advice across a broad range of business functions, including third-party contracts, leases, facilities matters, and information security. This role requires strong expertise in financial services regulation and governance.

Reporting to the VP - Deputy General Counsel, you will lead negotiation, risk assessment, and strategic guidance for management and the Board, while fostering a culture of

Qualifications

• JD from a law school accredited by the State Bar of California or the ABA required.
• 3+ years practicing law, preferably with a national or large regional law firm required.
• Preference for prior financial services experience and/or experience counseling a financial institution subject to examination and oversight by the CFPB preferred.
• Familiarity with consumer protection law, litigation, commercial contracting, and/or employment law also preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel and guidance to management on legal, regulatory, governance, and compliance matters.
• Collaborate with internal departments to support needs across Compliance, Consumer Lending, IT/Information Security, Facilities, HR, Marketing, and more.
• Oversee litigation and manage outside counsel, including budgeting and strategy alignment.

Skills

Regulatory compliance

Corporate governance

Legal leadership

Education

JD from CA/ABA-accredited law school

Job description

Job Description

Posted Friday, July 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Job Title: Associate General Counsel
Status: Exempt
Reports to: VP - Deputy General Counsel
Department: Legal
Job Code: 6523
Pay Range: $186,700.00 - $215,000.00 Annually

WHO WE ARE:

Golden 1 Credit Union is among the top credit unions in the country. As a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative, Golden 1 is guided by the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” We are committed to empowering our members and uplifting our communities as we create a more equitable and financially inclusive California. We welcome all who embrace our Core Values.

WHO YOU ARE:

You are a strategic, business-minded legal leader with deep expertise in financial services, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance. You are a trusted advisor who provides practical, risk-based counsel, partners effectively across the organization, and helps drive business objectives while protecting the Credit Union’s interests. Known for your collaborative approach, sound judgment, and ability to manage complex legal matters, you excel at translating legal and regulatory requirements into actionable business solutions while fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and continuous growth.

We are seeking an Associate General Counsel to provide practical, risk-based legal advice across a broad range of business functions. The position's primary areas of focus will be third-party and vendor contracts, leases and facilities-related matters, and information security, privacy, and incident response. Additional responsibilities will be aligned with the successful candidate’s background, expertise, and the evolving needs of the organization.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Provide legal counsel and guidance to business partners and management on legal, regulatory, governance, and compliance matters and issues of concern.
• Collaborate and partner with internal departments to provide timely, accurate, and practical support for their specific needs, which may include support for one or more of the following areas: Corporate Compliance, Retail, Consumer Lending, Business Services, Investment Services, Service Operations, Fraud, Vendor Management, IT/Information Security, Facilities, Human Resources, Marketing, and Community Relations.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of state and federal laws and regulations related to credit union compliance, including federal and state consumer compliance laws and regulations.
• Understand the Credit Union’s business and stay abreast of evolving products and services.
• Track and analyze pending and new changes in law and regulations and advise on impact to business practices as needed.
• Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders in the drafting, review, and negotiation of contracts with third parties, including vendors and business partners.
• Oversee litigation and manage outside counsel as necessary, including tactical guidance, case management, budgeting, and alignment with strategy.
• Ensure comprehensive and timely handling of legal process, including subpoenas.
• Advise on and negotiate resolution of pre-litigation disputes.
• Prepare regular written reports for the Board of Directors, committees, and senior management advising on status of significant matters and risks.
• Foster a positive and engaging work environment by promoting skill development, coaching for improvement and growth, inspiring others through words and actions, and embracing our mission, vision, and core values.
• Perform other duties as assigned by relevant executive leadership and management.

QUALIFICIATIONS AND PREFERENCES:

• JD from a law school accredited by the State Bar of California or the American Bar Association required
• 3+ years practicing law, preferably with a national or large regional law firm required
• Preference for prior financial services experience and/or experience counseling a financial institution subject to examination and oversight by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau preferred
• Familiarity with consumer protection law, litigation, commercial contracting, and/or employment law also preferred

WHY JOIN US:

Golden 1 Credit Union provides its employees a market-competitive and internally equitable total rewards compensation package through a variety of programs. These programs are designed to attract, motivate, and retain employees that drive and support the achievement of Our Mission, Vision, and Strategic Goals. The Credit Union is committed a total rewards philosophy built on; a comprehensive compensation package, well-being and work-life balance, career development and growth, rewards and recognition, and a commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. We believe in fostering a workplace where every employee is recognized, valued, and motivated to contribute their best.

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by team members within this classification. Because the nature of positions and job functions can change over time, this job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all essential functions, duties, responsibilities and qualifications requirements of team members assigned to this job. Job duties may be changed or modified in the Credit Union’s discretion. The Credit Union will keep team members updated on key functions, duties, and requirements of their position by communications from the Credit Union and by updating the job description from time to time. Any team member with questions about the nature of their job duties is encouraged to consult with their supervisor.