IP Docketing Lead: Team Mentor & Operational Excellence

Akerman-LL; Miami (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Akerman LLP is seeking an IP Docketing Supervisor to oversee the day-to-day IP docketing operations for U.S. and foreign patent and trademark matters. The role combines strong docketing expertise with leadership to mentor a high-performing team.

The ideal candidate has extensive IP docketing experience, risk management focus, and the ability to guide attorneys, paralegals, and staff in a fast-paced environment. A Bachelor’s degree is preferred. EOE.

Qualifications

• 5+ years IP docketing experience in a law firm environment (U.S. & foreign patent/trademark).
• 1–3 years of supervisory, team lead, mentoring, or training experience in IP docketing preferred.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. patent rules, PCT, EPO, and foreign filing requirements.
• Hands-on IP management systems experience including docket maintenance and workflow management.
• Advanced Excel skills for reporting and analytics; data integrity emphasis.
• Experience with CPI and Foundation IP is strongly preferred.
• Experience implementing docketing procedures, SOPs, and quality standards.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and train team members clearly and effectively.

Responsibilities

• Supervise IP docketing professionals; provide training, development, and performance management.
• Coordinate team workloads to meet deadlines, service levels, and quality standards.
• Oversee U.S. and foreign patent and trademark docketing across USPTO, PCT, EPO, WIPO, and foreign associates.
• Ensure accurate docketing of incoming correspondence, filings, and deadlines; resolve discrepancies.
• Serve as a subject matter resource and power user for IP management systems; promote data integrity and adoption.
• Participate in IP management system upgrades, testing, and workflow enhancements.
• Assist with the development, maintenance, and implementation of docketing procedures and SOPs.
• Support QA and audit processes to identify and mitigate risk.
• Prepare and analyze reports, productivity metrics, and operational data to support department objectives.
• Communicate docketing procedures and system updates to attorneys, paralegals, and staff; collaborate with stakeholders.
• Collaborate with attorneys, paralegals, vendors, IT, and leadership to optimize workflows and service delivery.
• Participate in special projects requiring docketing expertise and IP process knowledge.

Skills

IP docketing

Leadership/mentoring

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Microsoft Excel

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

CPI

Foundation IP

iManage

NetDocuments

Elite 3E

Aderant

Intapp Open

Job description

Akerman LLP is seeking an IP Docketing Supervisor to oversee the day-to-day IP docketing operations for U.S. and foreign patent and trademark matters. The role combines strong docketing expertise with leadership to mentor a high-performing team.

The ideal candidate has extensive IP docketing experience, risk management focus, and the ability to guide attorneys, paralegals, and staff in a fast-paced environment. A Bachelor’s degree is preferred. EOE.