Associate - Software Patent Prosecution

Patterson + Sheridan, LLP; United States; On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Patterson + Sheridan, LLP is seeking an associate with 5+ years of patent prosecution experience in software and electronics to join our intellectual property practice in the United States.

You will draft and prosecute patent applications, develop strategy with partners, work with inventors, advise on patentability and portfolio development, and support freedom-to-operate and landscape studies while maintaining high writing and analytical standards.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Admission to at least one state bar and in good standing.
• Registration before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office preferred, or eligibility to sit for the patent bar depending on technical background.
• Meaningful patent prosecution experience, ideally with software, computer science, or related technologies.
• Strong writing, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Drafting and prosecuting patent applications relating to software
• Developing prosecution strategy in close collaboration with partners and clients
• Working directly with inventors, in-house counsel, and business stakeholders
• Advising on patentability, claim strategy, and portfolio development
• Supporting client needs across fast-moving and evolving technology sectors
• Assisting with freedom-to-operate and landscape studies
• Assisting with infringement and invalidity opinions

Skills

Strong writing

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent work

Project management

Education

J.D. from an accredited law school

Job description

Patterson + Sheridan, LLP is currently seeking an experienced Associate to support our intellectual property practice, with a focus on software and electronics. The ideal candidate will have a B.S. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Software Engineering, and have 5+ years of strong patent prosecution experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Low-level software applications, including work relating to operating systems, computer networks, storage systems, or other computer related fields
• Electro-mechanical medical devices
• Sensors, such as implantable sensors
• Imaging and visualization systems
• Optics
• Robotics and complex mechanical or electromechanical systems
• Cybersecurity
• Wireless communications
• Batteries and other electric vehicle applications

This position is a full-time, exempt role with flexibility depending on the candidate’s location and experience.

Associate - Software Patent Prosecution

What You’ll Work On

You will support sophisticated clients in protecting innovation across a broad range of software and technology-driven matters, including:

• Drafting and prosecuting patent applications relating to software
• Developing prosecution strategy in close collaboration with partners and clients
• Working directly with inventors, in-house counsel, and business stakeholders
• Advising on patentability, claim strategy, and portfolio development
• Supporting client needs across fast-moving and evolving technology sectors
• Assisting with freedom-to-operate and landscape studies
• Assisting with infringement and invalidity opinions

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Direct Impact with a High-Profile Client: Immediate, hands‑on work with a cornerstone client on sophisticated, cutting‑edge matters
• Meaningful Client Contact: Opportunity to directly interface with the client, build trusted relationships, and help manage portfolios
• Build, Not Just Bill: A chance to play an instrumental role in shaping and expanding an important practice area
• Autonomy and Ownership: Significant responsibility and independence, with room to take ownership of matters and client workflows
• Accelerated Path to Advancement: Close partner access and a lean team structure that supports faster professional growth and long-term leadership opportunities
• Mentorship Opportunities: Ability over time to help guide and mentor more junior associates as the practice continues to grow

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Admission to at least one state bar and in good standing
• Registration before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office preferred, or eligibility to sit for the patent bar depending on technical background
• Meaningful patent prosecution experience, ideally with software, computer science, or related technologies
• Strong writing, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with partners and clients
• Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and excellent project‑management skills

For more information and to apply please click here: https://lawcruit.micronapps.com/sup/ApplicationForm.aspx?lawfirm=458&id=1