Data Privacy & Automation Specialist

DDG Consultant / Data Privacy & Automation Specialist Location Remote (California-based preferred) Engagement Type Contract (12 months with potential extension) Engagement Overview We are seeking a DDG Consultant to support a California State Agency in executing and maintaining compliance with Data De-Identification Guidelines (DDG). The agency manages sensitive data collected from regional service providers and state programs. This role ensures all public records and datasets are properly de-identified and approved for public release in accordance with HIPAA, the Information Practices Act (IPA), and CalHHS DDG standards. The consultant will conduct de-identification data reviews, complete Publication Risk Assessments, sign Expert Determination Declarations, develop training materials, maintain SOP documentation, and build automation solutions to streamline DDG processes. Key ResponsibilitiesDDG Review & Compliance (Primary Focus) Conduct data de-identification reviews in accordance with DDG Standard Operating Procedures for assigned datasets and reports Apply statistical disclosure controls including small count suppression, complementary suppression, aggregation, and pseudonymization Complete and document Publication Risk Assessments using templates and scoring criteria Sign Expert Determination Declarations for each assigned dataset/report per HIPAA Safe Harbor and Expert Determination requirements Support DDG submissions through ServiceNow ticketing including file analysis, data determination, attachments, and closure notes Use statistical and scientific principles to determine re-identification risk of data files Evaluate compliance against HIPAA Privacy Rule, California Information Practices Act (IPA), and CalHHS DDG requirements Coordinate with the Privacy Team to identify privacy data restrictions and obtain program data owner approvals Maintain audit-ready documentation for all DDG activities Training Development & Delivery Develop comprehensive DDG training curriculum and materials based on lessons learned and best practices Create training presentations, guides, exercises, and job aids for DDG section team and data requesters Deliver training sessions to agency staff on DDG processes, statistical methods, and compliance requirements Create video training content for DDG processes and tools Update training materials based on feedback, policy changes, and regulatory updates SOP Documentation & Maintenance Review existing DDG SOPs and identify gaps, inconsistencies, or areas requiring updates Create and update SOP documentation aligned with current regulatory requirements and best practices Develop Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) documentation for common DDG scenarios and edge cases Create quick-reference materials, checklists, and decision trees to improve compliance consistency Maintain version control, change history, and approval documentation for all SOPs Automation & Technical Development Develop and automate DDG review workflows using Power BI, Power Automate, or equivalent tools Build AI Agent/Bot capabilities to support DDG process automation and user assistance Create Power BI dashboards for ServiceNow ticket tracking, DDG metrics, and compliance reporting Write Python scripts and automation tools for custom DDG processing needs Support public-facing data transparency initiatives including dashboards and open-data releases Maintain and improve internal ServiceNow dashboards and workflow processes Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Statistics, Public Health, Health Informatics, Computer Science, or related field 5+ years of experience in data privacy, de-identification, or statistical disclosure control Deep understanding of HIPAA Privacy Rule, Safe Harbor method, and Expert Determination requirements Experience conducting re-identification risk assessments using statistical and scientific methods Proficiency with Microsoft Power Platform (Power BI, Power Automate) Experience with Python scripting for data analysis and automation Experience with ServiceNow or similar ticketing/workflow systems Strong technical writing skills for SOP documentation and training materials Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Public Health, or related quantitative field Experience with California state government agencies or health/human services programs Knowledge of CalHHS Data De-Identification Guidelines Experience with California Information Practices Act (IPA) compliance CIPP/US, CIPM, or similar privacy certification Experience developing AI/chatbot solutions for process automation Background in developmental disabilities services or healthcare data Training development and delivery experience Compliance Requirements This role requires compliance with strict confidentiality requirements imposed by State and Federal laws including: Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA) Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) California Civil Code Sections 56 et seq. and 1798.24-1798.24b California Welfare and Institutions Code sections 4514, 5328, and 15600 et seq. CalHHS Data De-Identification Guidelines Information Practices Act (IPA) The selected consultant will be required to sign a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) and complete annual security and privacy training. Pay: $75.00 - $95.00 per hour Benefits: Health insurance Work Location: Remote