Senior IP Counsel: Global Innovation & Strategy

Emerson; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Emerson is seeking a Senior Counsel, Intellectual Property, to guide strategic IP across global markets. You will collaborate with business leaders, engineers and legal colleagues to implement IP strategies that protect innovation and drive growth.

Requirements include 3–5 years of international IP experience, US bar and Federal Patent Bar, a law degree, and strong English communication. Hybrid work in Houston with travel and sponsorship-free employment.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of relevant commercial and international legal experience (in-house or private practice)
• Admission in good standing to at least one U.S. state bar and the Federal Patent Bar
• Law degree from an accredited law school
• Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with senior business and Law Department leaders
• Excellent written and oral English communication skills
• Willingness to travel
• Self‑motivation and interest in varied legal matters and business areas
• Authorization to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship

Responsibilities

• Advise business units on IP and related legal matters
• Manage outside counsel and global patent prosecution
• Conduct patent searches, landscapes, and competitor monitoring
• Review invention disclosures and identify protection opportunities
• Support IP diligence for transactions, acquisitions, and product launches
• Train technical and business teams on IP processes and best practices
• Develop business-aligned patent strategies and portfolio priorities
• Lead FTO analyses and risk mitigation recommendations
• Draft and negotiate IP agreements, including NDAs, licenses, and JDAs
• Support patent litigation and outside counsel coordination
• Keep leaders informed of significant developments
• Exercise sound judgment to protect Emerson’s reputation
• Implement corporate policies across divisions
• Lead strategic projects involving legislation and regulations
• Manage post‑acquisition legal integration

Skills

IP law experience

US bar admission

Law degree

English communication

Independent work

Travel willingness

No sponsorship needed

Education

J.D. from accredited law school

Job description

Emerson is seeking a Senior Counsel, Intellectual Property, to guide strategic IP across global markets. You will collaborate with business leaders, engineers and legal colleagues to implement IP strategies that protect innovation and drive growth.

Requirements include 3–5 years of international IP experience, US bar and Federal Patent Bar, a law degree, and strong English communication. Hybrid work in Houston with travel and sponsorship-free employment.