Project Assistant (Legal Client Support)

Harness IP & Pierce PLC; Bloomfield Hills (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Harness IP & Pierce PLC in Michigan is seeking an organized IP support clerk to assist attorneys and staff with routine IP tasks, including processing Office Actions and IDSs, updating matter databases, and maintaining orderly files.

The role requires proficiency in MS Office, IPDAS, and document management systems, plus strong communication and the ability to manage multiple tasks with accuracy; some overtime may be required.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and related software, and using databases.
• Attention to detail, fast-paced environment, and strong customer service.
• Excellent oral and written communication, good judgment, and prioritization.

Responsibilities

• Report patent or trademark office communications to the client using specific software and checklists.
• Update database with matter-specific information and reconcile against records.
• Review art filed to the USPTO and add to IPDAS; evaluate art for IDS needs.
• Ensure information is saved to the correct digital folder.
• Print file copies and prepare shells of office responses to expedite filing.
• Forward the package to the attorney/assistant with a checklist.
• Verify documents produced by staff for accuracy.
• Add, verify, and track progress in the daily queue and IPOA.
• Assist with additional projects and tasks as needed.

Skills

MS Office Suite

Aderant software

IPDAS knowledge

Outlook

Database management

Education

Some college or related training

Tools

IPDAS

Aderant / DMS

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Overview

Provides clerical support to intellectual property (IP) attorneys and legal support staff. Efficiently executes routine clerical IP functions such as processing Office Actions, OFR’s and IDS’s in a timely, accurate, and efficient manner.

Essential Duties

• Report patent or trademark office communications to the client using specific software to create form letters and following client checklist. Communications include Advisory Actions, Ex Parte Quayle, Non and Final OA’s, Publication Notices, Official Filing Receipts (after verification), Notice of Allowances (after publication).
• Update database with matter specific information and reconcile against the country’s patent or trademark office record.
• Review art filed to and received from the USPTO, download and add art to IPDAS when appropriate, evaluate specific matter’s art (and family) for Information Disclosure Statement needs and update systems as appropriate, and communicate with attorney team as to status of art.
• Ensure information is correctly saved to the appropriate digital work folder.
• Print file copies as appropriate. Prepare shells of patent and trademark office responses to communications received necessary to expedite the attorney and assistant response for filing.
• Forward the entire package to the attorney/assistant along with a checklist.
• Verify documents produced by other staff members for accuracy.
• Add, verify, and track progress is daily queue, and track time spent on each task by adding to IPOA.
• Assist with additional projects and tasks, as needed.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and/or related software, and the ability to effectively utilize various databases and applications like Aderant, a document management system, and Outlook, among others.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while exhibiting a strong attention to detail.
• Ability to demonstrate strong attention to detail, independently troubleshoot, professionally interact with others, and exceptional customer service skills.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to demonstrate good judgment and effectively prioritize tasks.
• Ability to perform efficiently, maintain high quality and quantity of work, and adapt to changes effectively.
• Consistently maintain good attendance, reliability, and an ability to work OT, if needed.

Education & Experience

• Some college, related education, or related training beyond a High School Diploma
• At least one (1) year of related experience