Cybersecurity Associate Attorney Government Contracts & Regulatory Compliance

Direct Counsel; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 260,000 - 365,000; Full time

Job summary

Direct Counsel seeks a Cybersecurity Associate with 3–5 years of government contracts experience in Washington, DC. The role focuses on advising contractors on cybersecurity compliance across the contracting lifecycle and on regulatory obligations.

Ideal candidates bring a DC Bar admission, strong research and writing skills, and the ability to work with multidisciplinary teams to solve sophisticated regulatory challenges.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Strong legal research, analytical, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to independently manage sophisticated matters while working collaboratively within a team.

Responsibilities

• Advise government contractors on cybersecurity compliance and regulatory requirements.
• Counsel clients on government cybersecurity obligations throughout the contracting lifecycle.
• Assist clients with cybersecurity risk management, regulatory compliance, audits and assessments, and compliance program development.
• Analyze federal cybersecurity regulations and emerging government requirements.

Skills

Legal research

Analytical skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Education

J.D.

Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking a Cybersecurity Associate with 3–5 years of experience to join a nationally recognized Government Contracts practice in Washington, DC.

Location

Washington, DC

Responsibilities

Advise government contractors on cybersecurity compliance and regulatory requirements. Counsel clients on government cybersecurity obligations throughout the contracting lifecycle. Assist clients with:
Cybersecurity risk managementRegulatory complianceGovernment audits and assessmentsCompliance program development

Analyze federal cybersecurity regulations and emerging government requirements. Conduct legal research and prepare client advisories, memoranda, and compliance guidance. Collaborate with attorneys across government contracts, regulatory, and technology practices on complex client matters. Advise clients on cybersecurity issues affecting government procurement and contractor compliance.

Qualifications

J.D. from an accredited law school. Active admission to the District of Columbia Bar. 3–5 years of experience advising clients on government cybersecurity matters. Strong legal research, analytical, writing, and communication skills. Ability to independently manage sophisticated matters while working collaboratively within a team.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience advising government contractors on cybersecurity compliance. Background in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or auditing. One or more of the following certifications is preferred:
CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP)Certified Cybersecurity Practitioner (CCP)Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)
Experience with government contracts, regulatory compliance, risk management, or related areas.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $260,000–$365,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Performance-based bonus opportunities. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) retirement plan with profit sharing. Life and disability insurance. Flexible spending accounts. Paid holidays and generous paid time off. Wellness program. Ongoing mentorship, professional development, and long-term career advancement.

Why This Opportunity

This is an outstanding opportunity to join a premier Government Contracts practice advising clients on some of the most significant cybersecurity and regulatory compliance issues affecting government contractors today. Attorneys receive meaningful client responsibility, direct mentorship, sophisticated regulatory work, and the opportunity to develop a cutting-edge practice at the intersection of cybersecurity, technology, and federal procurement.

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.