Data Collection Senior Analyst in Chicago, Illinois at Sidley Austin LLP

The Data Collection Senior Analyst supports clients and matter teams by executing defensible electronic data collections for litigation, investigations, and regulatory matters. Working with the Data Collection Lead, this role applies specialized technical expertise to identify, preserve, and collect digital evidence across cloud, endpoint, mobile, and enterprise environments. The Senior Analyst independently performs collections once scope is defined, contributes to project planning by identifying relevant data sources, and ensures all activities adhere to established protocols, industry best practices, and chain-of-custody standards. The role also involves coordinating with internal teams and external stakeholders - including clients, custodians, and counsel - to ensure efficient, consistent, and defensible collection processes.

• Maintain strong knowledge of modern data collection tools and platforms and technical proficiency in executing defensible collections across cloud, endpoint, mobile, and enterprise systems.

• Identify relevant data sources and custodial systems within client environments for the preservation of potentially responsive data in accordance with legal and technical requirements.

• Execute remote and on-site collections using industry-standard tools such as Relativity Collect, Microsoft Purview, Magnet Axiom, Cellebrite, FTK Imager, and similar technologies.

• Participate in collection discussions and assist with the technical and logistical coordination of collection projects.

• Execute collection activities independently once scope and methodology are established, applying appropriate technical judgment to ensure collections are performed in a defensible and efficient manner.

• Maintain detailed documentation of collection methodologies, procedures, and technical decisions to ensure defensibility and reproducibility of collection activities.

• Coordinate with other litigation support functions and external vendors as necessary.

• Ensure proper handling of sensitive data and maintain strict confidentiality and integrity of all collected materials.

• Participate in the testing, maintenance and calibration of collection tools and technologies (e.g., Relativity Collect, Magnet Axiom, and Cellebrite).

• Communicate directly with clients, custodians, outside counsel, and internal case teams to coordinate collection logistics, provide technical guidance during collection activities, and support successful project execution.

• Participate in after-hours or expedited collection activities, including evenings or weekends, when required to support client matters.

• Travel to client locations as necessary to perform on-site collections (approximately 10-20% travel).

Education and/or Experience:
Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Digital Forensics, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience in a related area

• Minimum of two (2) years of hands-on experience performing electronic data collections in support of eDiscovery, digital forensics, investigations, or related litigation support activities

• Demonstrated experience supporting the identification, preservation, and defensible collection of electronically stored information (ESI) from a variety of data sources and technology environments

• Demonstrated experience performing remote and/or on-site data collections from endpoints, mobile devices, enterprise systems, or network-based repositories using forensic collection tools and cloud based compliance platforms (e.g., Cellebrite, FTK Imager, Relativity Collect, Microsoft Purview, Google Vault)

• Strong documentation and reporting skills, demonstrated by the ability to produce clear, complete, and audit-ready collection documentation (e.g., chain of custody records, collection logs, and reports) that consistently meet established defensibility standards and withstand legal or regulatory scrutiny

Preferred:

• Relevant industry certifications, such as EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), Certified Computer Examiner (CCE), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), Cellebrite Certified Operator/Examiner (CCO/CCE), or AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE)

• Experience in preparing or providing expert or fact witness testimony in legal proceedings related to digital forensics or data collection

Other Skills and Abilities:
The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills

• Strong attention to detail

• Good judgment

• Strong interpersonal communication skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others

• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion

• Able to work under pressure

• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

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The target salary range for this role is:

Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities above satisfactorily and meet the requirements. The requirements listed above are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email sidleytalentacquisition@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources).

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.