Senior IP Counsel: Strategy, Transactions & M&A

Westlake Chemical; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlake Chemical seeks an experienced Senior Intellectual Property Counsel to join its in-house legal team in Houston. The role blends IP strategy, contract review and transactional work across businesses, R&D, manufacturing, and M&A teams.

You will manage outside counsel, draft and negotiate IP agreements, support patent prosecution, and provide training on IP matters while balancing legal risk with business needs. Some travel up to 10% may be required.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree and licensed to practice law in Texas.
• Licensed to practice before the USPTO.
• 8+ years of IP experience, preferably with major law firm and in-house corporate exposure.
• Strong writing and verbal skills with solid business acumen.
• Willingness to travel up to 10%.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel on intellectual property matters for multiple client groups within the company.
• Develop and implement IP protection strategies across businesses and centers.
• Review, draft and negotiate IP-related contracts and service agreements.
• Support IP aspects of complex transactions including mergers and acquisitions.
• Lead and manage external counsel for patent drafting, prosecution and enforcement within budget.
• Collaborate with internal teams and provide IP training to personnel.

Skills

IP law

Contract negotiation

Patent prosecution

M&A support

Litigation coordination

Education

Juris Doctor degree

Job description

Westlake Chemical seeks an experienced Senior Intellectual Property Counsel to join its in-house legal team in Houston. The role blends IP strategy, contract review and transactional work across businesses, R&D, manufacturing, and M&A teams.

You will manage outside counsel, draft and negotiate IP agreements, support patent prosecution, and provide training on IP matters while balancing legal risk with business needs. Some travel up to 10% may be required.