IP Patent Prosecution Associate: Mech/EE (Wireless)

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

Job summary

Barnes & Thornburg LLP in Raleigh, NC seeks an associate with 2-4 years in patent prosecution to join the Intellectual Property Department. A mechanical engineering background with electrical drafting experience and familiarity with wireless device hardware are preferred to handle cutting-edge consumer electronics patents.

The ideal candidate will draft and prosecute U.S. and international applications, conduct prior art searches, respond to Office Actions, and coordinate with partners and

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school with strong academics.
• Registration in good standing with the USPTO.
• Bar admission in the state or eligibility for admission.
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.
• 2-4 years patent prosecution experience at a large law firm or IP boutique.
• Experience drafting and prosecuting mechanical and electrical engineering patents.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage a substantial docket and meet deadlines.
• Detail-oriented with high-quality work product.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications.
• Draft patent applications, including specifications, claims, and drawings, for consumer electronics hardware and electromechanical systems.
• Conduct prior art searches and support patentability, FTO, and invalidity analyses, including clearance opinions.
• Respond to USPTO Office Actions and manage prosecution strategy with partners and clients.
• Conduct inventor interviews and distill complex technical subject matter into clear patent disclosures.
• Support due diligence related to patent portfolios in transactions and licensing matters.
• Assist with post-grant proceedings, including IPR and reexamination as needed.
• Manage docket deadlines and maintain accurate file records.

Skills

Patent prosecution experience

Mechanical engineering background

Electrical drafting experience

Wireless device hardware familiarity

Strong communication skills

Docket management

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering

Job description

Barnes & Thornburg LLP in Raleigh, NC seeks an associate with 2-4 years in patent prosecution to join the Intellectual Property Department. A mechanical engineering background with electrical drafting experience and familiarity with wireless device hardware are preferred to handle cutting-edge consumer electronics patents.

The ideal candidate will draft and prosecute U.S. and international applications, conduct prior art searches, respond to Office Actions, and coordinate with partners and