Patent Prosecution Associate

Software Placement Group; Newark (NJ); Hybrid; USD 250,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is on the lookout for a dynamic Patent Prosecution Associate to enhance their Intellectual Property Practice Group. This exciting role offers the chance to draft and prosecute patent applications across various technologies while collaborating with inventors and clients. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical and communication skills, ensuring complex legal advice is conveyed effectively. With a strong focus on professional growth, this top-ranked law firm provides a supportive environment that fosters inclusion and offers flexible work schedules, making it an ideal opportunity for those passionate about intellectual property law.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings options

Continuing education programs

Flexible work schedules

Access to industry events

Cutting-edge legal technologies

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of relevant experience in patent prosecution.
• Admission to a state bar and registered to practice before the U.S. Patent Office.

Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in mechanical, electrical, and software technologies.
• Advise clients on patentability and infringement issues.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Legal Drafting Skills

Communication Skills

Time Management

Collaboration

Adaptability

Education

JD from an accredited law school

Advanced technical degree in engineering, physics, or computer science

Job description

Patent Prosecution Associate

We are seeking a dynamic Patent Prosecution Associate to join our Intellectual Property Practice Group. This role offers the opportunity to work in a top-ranked AmLaw150 law firm, which supports a culture of inclusion and provides unlimited opportunities for professional growth. The ideal candidate will contribute to drafting and prosecuting US and international patent applications across diverse technologies such as mechanical, electrical, and software fields. This position demands a keen eye for detail, superior writing skills, and the ability to communicate complex legal advice to a broad range of clients.

Salary: $250,000.00 - $400,000.00 per year

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in the US and internationally, focusing on mechanical, electrical, and software technologies.
• Collaborate with inventors and clients to prepare patent applications that protect their innovations.
• Analyze and respond to office actions from patent offices worldwide.
• Advise clients on patentability, infringement and freedom-to-operate issues.
• Stay updated on developments in IP law and contribute to the firm’s practice developments and professional growth initiatives.
• Participate in client counseling and the execution of IP strategy, aligning legal advice with clients’ business objectives.

Minimum Position Qualifications:

• JD from an accredited law school with superior academic credentials.
• 2-4 years of relevant experience in patent prosecution.
• Admission to a state bar and ideally registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Proven experience in handling complex patent portfolios and understanding business impacts.
• Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and software related technologies.
• Exceptional writing, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a large law firm or specialized IP boutique firm is highly desirable.
• Advanced technical degree in engineering, physics, computer science, or related fields.
• Proven track record of building and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Additional credentials such as a technical background or industry experience related to clients’ business areas.
• Ability to mentor junior associates and participate in firm-wide training programs.
• Multilingual capabilities or experience with international patent laws and processes.

Skills:

• Expert analytical and legal drafting skills.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, capable of presenting ideas and advice clearly, concisely, and persuasively.
• Time management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities and demanding timeframes.
• Collaborative work style, thriving in a team-oriented environment yet capable of working independently.
• Adaptability and continuous learning to stay abreast of evolving legal, technical and business developments.
• Deep knowledge of obtaining, enforcing, and defending patents across multiple jurisdictions.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package including bonuses aligned with performance and firm profitability.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings and investment options.
• Continuing educational programs, professional growth opportunities, and mentorship.
• Flexible work schedules and remote working options to ensure work-life balance.
• Invitations to exclusive industry events and access to cutting-edge legal technologies and resources.