Privacy Fellow

Job Posting Organization:
The Wikimedia Foundation is a nonprofit organization that operates Wikipedia and other Wikimedia free knowledge projects. Established to ensure that every individual can freely share in the sum of all knowledge, the foundation is dedicated to providing access to information for everyone. It is a charitable organization that relies on donations from millions of individuals globally, with an average donation of about $1

• The foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization based in the United States, with offices located in San Francisco, California. The Wikimedia Foundation values diversity and inclusivity in its workforce, striving to maintain an equitable workplace and encouraging applicants from a variety of backgrounds, including historically marginalized groups. The organization operates in over 40 countries, employing a remote-first model that allows for a diverse range of staff members and contractors.

Job Overview:
The Privacy Fellow position at the Wikimedia Foundation is designed for individuals who are passionate about privacy law and its implications in the digital age. This role is integral to the legal department as it navigates complex legal questions surrounding privacy and data governance. The Privacy Fellow will engage in research and drafting on various topics, gaining valuable experience in product counseling and public policy related to privacy. The position requires monitoring global developments in privacy regulations to ensure that the Wikimedia Foundation remains compliant and can effectively advocate for users' rights to access knowledge online. The role offers a unique opportunity to work closely with experienced legal professionals and gain insights into internet regulation and privacy law, all while contributing to the mission of making knowledge freely accessible to all.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Privacy Fellow will be responsible for a variety of tasks that include working both independently and collaboratively with the privacy team under the supervision of attorneys. Key responsibilities include researching and providing guidance on existing and emerging data protection laws worldwide, assisting in monitoring global privacy developments that could impact free knowledge, and managing ongoing projects in collaboration with the legal team. The Fellow will also work cross-departmentally to address legal inquiries and provide counsel, ensuring that the Wikimedia Foundation's operations align with legal standards. Additionally, the Fellow may be assigned other legal projects as needed, requiring flexibility and adaptability in their work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Privacy Fellow position should possess a graduate degree in law, public policy, or a related field, along with excellent academic credentials. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. A strong understanding of privacy and internet law issues is essential, as is the ability to conduct comprehensive legal research. The candidate must demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines while working independently. Experience working with remote teams and across international borders is highly valued, as is familiarity with non-U.S. jurisdictions.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have a graduate degree in law, public policy, or a related field. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in legal principles, particularly those related to privacy and data governance. Candidates with equivalent experience in relevant fields may also be considered, emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge and skills over formal qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have experience working on legal matters that involve privacy and data protection, particularly in non-U.S. jurisdictions. Experience with large-scale research projects, especially those focused on legal topics, is crucial. The candidate should also have a demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously, showcasing their organizational skills and capacity to adhere to deadlines. Experience in the technology or nonprofit sector, as well as familiarity with international law, will be advantageous.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this role, as it is the primary language of communication within the Wikimedia Foundation. Additionally, fluency in another language would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and contribute to the foundation's global mission.

Additional Notes:
This position is a remote role with a duration of 12 months. The Wikimedia Foundation operates on a remote-first basis, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The anticipated annual pay range for applicants based in the United States is between US$75,473 and US$114,977, with adjustments made based on the cost of living in the applicant's location. For candidates located outside the U.S., compensation will be tailored to the country of hire. The role may require occasional travel, including international travel, and the ability to work during Pacific Time business hours for meetings. The Wikimedia Foundation is committed to providing equal opportunities and encourages applicants requiring accommodations due to disabilities to reach out for assistance.