IP Paralegal

Purdue University; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Vacation days

Retirement plans (403b/ROTH)

Dental & Vision insurance

Tuition discounts

Job summary

Purdue Research Foundation is seeking an IP Paralegal to support patent prosecution, docketing, and IP management within the Office of Technology Commercialization. The role emphasizes accuracy, deadlines, and collaboration with attorneys to advance inventive projects.

Ideal candidates have a paralegal background, IP knowledge, and at least three years of experience, including familiarity with USPTO tools. The position is full-time and on-site at Purdue Research Foundation facilities.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or paralegal training or equivalent.
• IP docketing experience a plus; docketing trainability required.
• Minimum of three years of professional experience, preferably in a law firm.
• Extensive experience with USPTO online tools (Private PAIR & EFS-Web).

Responsibilities

• Create new patent prosecution matters and manage IP details.
• Draft IP prosecution documents for attorney review/revision.
• Submit USPTO/EFS forms for patent filing and prosecution.
• Prioritize, route, and follow up on IP correspondence.
• Coordinate IP deadlines and maintain file history; track and forecast actions.
• Enter and link documents to database; scan and archive materials.

Skills

IP knowledge

Communication

Organization

Problem solving

Prioritization

Education

Associate degree/paralegal

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

USPTO tools (Private PAIR)

EFS-Web

Job description

IP Paralegal

Department: Office of Technology Commercialization

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Purdue Research Foundation

Description

Working for the Purdue Research Foundation offers a dynamic and innovative environment where you can be at the forefront of groundbreaking research and technological advancements. As a member of this organization, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with brilliant minds and contribute to cutting-edge projects that have the potential to shape the future in various fields. The Foundation's commitment to driving innovation and entrepreneurship provides a stimulating and supportive workplace culture. Additionally, you'll have access to state-of-the-art resources and a network of professionals dedicated to advancing knowledge and technology. Working for the Purdue Research Foundation means being part of a team that's actively driving progress and making a lasting impact on the world. Are you ready to change the world with us?

*Candidates must live within a reasonable driving distance of West Lafayette, Indiana for in-person attendance, as required*

Responsibilities

• Create new patent prosecution matters and manage intellectual property (IP) details.
• Draft IP prosecution documents for attorney review/revision.
• Complete and submit USPTO/EFS regular forms for patent application filing and prosecution.
• Prioritize, route, and follow up on incoming IP correspondences.
• Patent Coordination
  • Monitor and clear IP deadlines.
  • Review file history and maintain accuracy.
  • Entering, tracking, and communicating IP information.
  • Utilize computer database tools to track and forecast next step actions.
  • Scan and link documents to database.
  • Close and archive files.
  • Clean up database, including population of past documents.
• Prepare and issue weekly docket.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Broad-based intellectual property background.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills, along with the ability to complete tasks in an accurate and timely manner despite numerous conflicting priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to independently and efficiently prioritize workflow and maintain an organized task schedule.
• Strong problem-solving skills.

Required Education, Experience and Benefits Summary

• Associate’s degree, Paralegal or equivalent experience/education.
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• IP docketing experience a plus; docketing trainability required.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• A minimum of three years of professional experience, preferably in a law firm.
• Extensive experience with the USPTO’s online patent and trademark tools, including Private PAIR and EFS-Web.

Benefits Summary for eligible employees:

• 10 paid holidays per year.
• Accrue up to 22 vacation days a year.
• Traditional pre-tax 403(b) and Roth retirement plans available.
• 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan and immediate vesting.
• Health Savings Account- earn up to $700 annually towards medical expenses.
• Employer funded Preventative Dental and Vision insurance.
• Tuition discounts on eligible programs at Purdue University and Purdue Global for qualified employees, spouses, and dependents.