IP Manager, Patent Agent

Photonic Inc.; Coquitlam; On-site; CAD 172,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology company focused on quantum innovation is seeking an IP Manager, Patent Agent in British Columbia, Canada. The role involves developing and expanding the IP portfolio, managing the patent lifecycle, and protecting valuable inventions. Ideal candidates will have over 7 years' experience and strong organizational skills, with a degree in physics, engineering, or computer science. A comprehensive compensation package is offered, including salary, benefits, and stock options.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

Comprehensive benefits including health and dental

Stock options

Inclusive company culture

Regular social events

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in patent portfolio management.
• At least 3 years of practice without supervision.
• Ability to manage priorities and deadlines independently.

Responsibilities

• Develop and expand Photonic's IP portfolio.
• Partner with inventors to protect commercially valuable inventions.
• Oversee external patent agents for quality patent filings.

Skills

Patent portfolio management

Technical translation

Organizational skills

Collaboration

Education

Degree in physics, engineering, or computer science

Qualification as a US Patent Agent, Canadian Patent Agent, or European Patent Attorney

Job description

IP Manager, Patent Agent

Department: Intellectual Property

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: British Columbia, Canada

Compensation: The base annual salary range for this full‑time role is between $172,000 to $210,000. This range reflects the minimum and maximum target range for new hire base salary across all Canadian locations. Actual compensation may vary outside of this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Photonic is seeking a strategically minded and technically adept IP Manager, Patent Agent to lead our IP strategy, shaping the future of quantum innovation. In this role, you will play a key part in protecting Photonic’s groundbreaking technologies, managing our IP program, and driving our IP strategy forward. This position operates as a highly autonomous individual contributor, where you’ll act as a key bridge between R&D teams and senior leadership, collaborating cross‑functionally to build a world‑class IP portfolio that sustains our commercial advantage.

Please include a cover letter with your resume (in one file) describing how you would be a great fit at Photonic and what attributes you could bring to our growing team.

WHAT WE NEED YOU TO DO

• Develop and Expand Photonic’s IP portfolio in alignment with our IP strategy, managing the full patent lifecycle from initial idea harvest to patent grant and beyond.
• Partner with inventors and technical leaders across the quantum stack to identify and protect commercially valuable inventions.
• Oversee external patent agents to ensure high‑quality cost‑effective patent filings and prosecution.
• Maintain accurate due‑diligence ready records for Photonic’s IP portfolio.
• Provide internal training and education onIP best practices and internal processes for protecting innovation.
• Support external partnerships, marketing, and business development by identifying and mitigating IP risks.
• Collaborate with Legal to identify, assess, and mitigate risks relating to third‑party IP.
• Manage the IP budget.
• Work onsite (2–5 days a week) in our Greater Vancouver Area offices to collaborate with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies.

WHAT YOU BRING TO OUR TEAM

• 7+ years of experience in patent portfolio management, including at least 3 years of practice without supervision.
• Degree in physics, engineering or computer science, or equivalent experience.
• Qualification as a US Patent Agent, Canadian Patent Agent or European Patent Attorney.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable IP insights with minimal external guidance.
• Proactive and self‑directed work style, along with strong organizational skills and the ability to independently manage priorities and deadlines.
• Desirable experience:
  • Conducting freedom‑to‑operate analyses.
  • Growing a patent portfolio in a scaling company.
  • Designing, supporting and communicating internal processes and policies for protecting IP.

WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH US

• Work closely with some of the brightest innovators in quantum technologies to drive breakthroughs that redefine computing.
• Enjoy a fast‑paced and fun environment where you can try new things while solving innovative challenges every day.
• Inclusive company culture that values collaboration.
• Regular social events and fun activities keep our global team connected.
• Competitive compensation package including base salary, stock options, and relocation assistance for global talent.
• Comprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, life, long term disability, an employee assistance program, parental leave top‑ups, and a flexible spending account.

The description above is what we think an ideal candidate would look like for this role. At Photonic, we understand that everyone has a different work and life journey. If you feel your experience is close to what we've described, but you might not meet all the requirements, please still apply! All roles listed are for current vacancies. While artificial intelligence (AI) tools may be used to assist in reviewing applicant profiles, they do not determine candidate outcomes. Our hiring decisions are made by people, not algorithms. We are committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We embrace and encourage our employees’ differences, knowing that these very differences inspire innovation and build better teams. If there are any accommodations our team can make throughout our hiring process, please let us know.