Data Privacy and AI Governance Attorney

Wilson Elser; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Competitive compensation

Generous PTO

401(k) match

Comprehensive health benefits

Job summary

Wilson Elser is seeking a Data Privacy and AI Governance Attorney to join a fast-paced national team. The role focuses on privacy compliance, AI governance, and related litigation, with opportunities across a national firm network.

The position offers a flexible hybrid working arrangement. Ideal candidates have 3–8 years of experience in data privacy, cybersecurity, or AI governance and a JD with bar admission.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school.
• Admitted to practice in at least one state and federal jurisdiction.
• 3–8 years of data privacy, cybersecurity, or AI governance experience.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients on data privacy compliance (CCPA/CPRA, HIPAA, etc.).
• Counsel on AI governance frameworks and emerging regulations.
• Draft DPAs, privacy policies, and AI-use policies with privacy provisions.
• Conduct privacy, AI risk, and DPIAs for clients across industries.
• Defend clients in privacy-related litigation and class actions.

Skills

Data privacy

AI governance

Regulatory compliance

Privacy litigation

Written & oral advocacy

Client service

Business development

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bar admission (any state)

Job description

At Wilson Elser, we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #30 in the National Law Journal’s survey of the nation’s largest law firms.

Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where attorneys are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.

Our firm is committed to attracting and retaining professionals who value each other and the service we provide by embracing Teamwork, Collaboration, Client Service, and Innovation. If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Data Privacy and AI Governance Attorney position.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement.

The Position

Wilson Elser's Intellectual Property and Technology Team seeks a Data Privacy and AI Governance Attorney to join a fast-paced and dynamic national team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in data privacy compliance, AI governance, and data privacy litigation, with the ability to advise clients on emerging legal and regulatory frameworks and litigation trends. This role offers the opportunity to take the next step in your career by becoming part of a national law firm with a wide range of resources and opportunities. The opportunity is available at Wilson Elser’s East Meadow, New York or White Plains, New York offices; alternative locations with Wilson Elser’s other offices may be acceptable.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise clients on data privacy compliance, including CCPA/CPRA, other state privacy laws, consumer health data laws, HIPAA, COPPA, GLBA, and other domestic and international data protection regulations.
• Counsel clients on AI governance frameworks, responsible AI practices, and compliance with emerging AI regulations at the federal and state levels.
• Prepare data processing agreements, privacy policies, AI use policies, and vendor agreements with privacy and data security provisions.
• Conduct privacy impact assessments, AI risk assessments, and data protection impact assessments for clients across various industries.
• Defend clients in privacy litigation matters, including individual lawsuits and class actions involving data breaches, TCPA, BIPA, wiretapping statutes, and other privacy-related claims.
• Develop and deliver training programs for clients on data privacy best practices, AI ethics, and governance frameworks.
• Monitor and analyze developments in data privacy and AI legislation, regulations, and enforcement trends to provide proactive guidance to clients.
• Work closely with other attorneys and Partners on cross-functional legal matters involving privacy, cybersecurity, and technology issues.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school
• Must be admitted to practice in at least one state and federal jurisdiction.
• 3-8 years of experience in data privacy, cybersecurity, or AI governance legal practice
• Strong working knowledge of U.S. state and federal privacy laws and familiarity with international frameworks (GDPR, cross-border data transfers)
• Experience advising on AI governance, algorithmic accountability, and emerging AI regulations preferred
• CIPP/US, CIPP/E, CIPM, CIPT, or other privacy certifications preferred
• Demonstrated track record of thought leadership in data privacy or AI governance preferred
• Excellent analytical, writing, client service, and professional communications skills with demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the initiative to build and grow a practice area, mentor junior attorneys, and contribute to business development efforts
• Strong billable productivity with the ability to manage a substantial caseload efficiently
• Client-focused approach with a commitment to delivering high‑quality, responsive legal services

Why Join Wilson Elser?

• Meaningful Work: Handle sophisticated matters alongside experienced attorneys and partners
• Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive team environment that values mentorship and professional development
• Advancement: Gain opportunities for long‑term growth within a nationally recognized firm
• Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement that supports work‑life balance
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, generous PTO, 401(k) match, and robust medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Access to corporate discount programs and employee benefits

Wilson Elser is committed to a collegial work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. It is the Firm's policy that employment will be based on merit, qualifications, and competence. Further, employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicants race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, physical or mental disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, past or present service in the uniformed services or application or obligation to serve in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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