IP Mechanical and Electrical Patent Prosecution Associate

Barnes-&-Thornburg-LL; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Barnes & Thornburg LLP in Raleigh seeks an associate with 2-4 years of patent prosecution experience, preferably with a mechanical engineering background and drafting experience for wireless hardware such as smartphones and wearables.

This role involves preparing and prosecuting U.S. and international patent applications, conducting prior art searches, and supporting due diligence in transactions, with a focus on clear writing and docket management.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school with strong academic achievement.
• Registration in good standing or eligibility for registration before the USPTO.
• Bar admission in the state of Raleigh or eligibility to be admitted.
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.
• 2–4 years of patent prosecution experience, preferably at a large or boutique IP firm.
• Experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications in mechanical and electrical engineering.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications.
• Draft patent applications, including specifications, claims, and drawings descriptions for EM devices.
• Conduct prior art searches and support patentability, FTO and invalidity analyses.
• Respond to USPTO Office Actions and manage prosecution strategy with partners and clients.
• Conduct inventor interviews and distill technical subject matter into clear patent disclosures.
• Support due diligence related to patent portfolios in transactions and licensing matters.
• Assist with post-grant proceedings as needed and manage docket deadlines.

Skills

Draft patent applications

Prosecution experience

Strong communication skills

Docket management

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering

Job description

Barnes & Thornburg LLP in Raleigh seeks an associate with 2-4 years of patent prosecution experience, preferably with a mechanical engineering background and drafting experience for wireless hardware such as smartphones and wearables.

This role involves preparing and prosecuting U.S. and international patent applications, conducting prior art searches, and supporting due diligence in transactions, with a focus on clear writing and docket management.