IP Patent Prosecution Specialist (IDS & Docket)

MERCHANT & GOULD PC; Minneapolis (MN); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Merchant & Gould PC seeks an IDS Specialist to support the firm’s IP practice. You will prepare and file IDS forms, maintain reference databases, verify citations, and assist with USPTO submissions. The role also provides general patent prosecution support in a hybrid Minneapolis setting.

Competitive salary and benefits are offered, with emphasis on accuracy, deadlines, and confidentiality in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of administrative experience in a legal or IP-related role.
• Familiarity with USPTO forms, filing procedures, and IDS requirements strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with IP management systems.
• Excellent attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and file IDS forms and ensure correct formatting of references in compliance with USPTO rules.
• Maintain and update IDS reference databases or tracking sheets.
• Coordinate with legal assistants and attorneys to verify citation accuracy and relevance before submission.
• Assist with uploading and submitting IDS documents via USPTO EFS-Web or Patent Center.
• Fully adhere to firm confidentiality standards for attorney-client communications.
• Adhere to internal timetable for handling and clearing the department docket.
• Prepare, review and edit billing invoices.
• Assist with management of IDS inbox for large clients.

Skills

MS Office

IP management

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Tools

USPTO forms

Document management

Job description

Merchant & Gould PC seeks an IDS Specialist to support the firm’s IP practice. You will prepare and file IDS forms, maintain reference databases, verify citations, and assist with USPTO submissions. The role also provides general patent prosecution support in a hybrid Minneapolis setting.

Competitive salary and benefits are offered, with emphasis on accuracy, deadlines, and confidentiality in a fast-paced environment.