Patent Agent

Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC; Lake Zurich (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 131,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Patent Agent to join their U.S. Intellectual Property team. This dynamic role involves collaborating with legal, scientific, and business teams on new product development and patent prosecution, while also conducting FTO assessments and competitor monitoring. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in pharmaceuticals and regulatory processes, along with the ability to navigate complex IP matters. Enjoy a competitive salary, annual bonus potential, and a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes your health and well-being. If you're ready to make a significant impact in a collaborative environment, this opportunity is for you.

Benefits

401(k) Plan with Company Contributions

Paid Vacation

Health Coverage (Medical, Dental, Vision)

Employee Assistance Program

Wellness Programs

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience as a patent agent or technical advisor.
• Registration to practice before the USPTO required.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate technological issues and draft patent applications.
• Collaborate with international IP colleagues on patent strategies.

Skills

Patent Prosecution

FTO Assessments

Regulatory Knowledge

Collaboration with Legal Teams

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biology, or Engineering

Graduate Degree (Preferred)

Tools

USPTO Procedures

FDA's Orange Book

Job description

Job Summary

The Patent Agent will support the U.S. Intellectual Property (IP) team, collaborating closely with legal, scientific, regulatory, and business teams. The role involves new product development, patent prosecution, freedom-to-operate (FTO) assessments, and monitoring competitor patent portfolios in the pharmaceutical, nutrition, and intravenous (IV) therapy fields.

Note: This position requires onsite work three days per week at our Lake Zurich, IL location.

Salary Range: $120,000-131,000. The position is eligible for an annual bonus plan with a target of 10% of the base salary. Final pay will depend on experience, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Our benefits include a comprehensive package designed to support health and well-being, such as a 401(k) plan with company contributions, paid vacation, holidays, personal days, an employee assistance program, and health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs).

Responsibilities

1. Evaluate technological issues, perform patentability analyses, draft patent applications, assist outside counsel with patent prosecution before the USPTO, and maintain related documentation.
2. Collaborate with international IP colleagues on global patenting and FTO strategies.
3. Monitor competitor patent portfolios and assist in developing non-infringement strategies, invalidity positions, and patent filing opportunities.
4. Assist with IP due diligence for licensing and joint ventures.
5. Support patent opinions and litigation activities.
6. Advise internal clients on FDA's Orange Book, generic pharmaceutical development frameworks, and Hatch-Waxman patent litigation.
7. Coordinate with various departments to support the launch of new pharmaceutical, nutrition, and IV therapy products in the US.

Job Requirements

1. Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, or related sciences; a graduate degree is preferred.
2. Registration to practice before the USPTO.
3. At least 3 years of experience as a patent agent or technical advisor in a law firm or corporate environment.
4. Understanding of FDA's Orange Book, regulatory processes for generic pharmaceuticals, and Hatch-Waxman litigation.
5. Experience with complex IP matters across diverse technical fields, including pharmaceuticals, analytical methods, packaging, or medical devices.
6. Knowledge of procedures for evaluating U.S. and foreign IP issues.

Additional Information

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, 401(k) with company contribution, and wellness programs.

Fresenius Kabi is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or veteran status.