Patent Paralegal (Fixed-Term)

Eip; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading patent firm in South Africa is seeking a Patent Paralegal for a 12-month fixed-term contract to support the team with administrative expertise and patent work. The successful candidate will have at least 3 years of experience, an understanding of patent processes, and professional communication skills. This role offers a hybrid working environment and an opportunity to thrive in a dynamic legal setting with comprehensive benefits including private medical insurance.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years’ experience in a patent paralegal role.
• Strong understanding of patent processes and procedures.
• Confident communication skills and a positive, can-do attitude.

Responsibilities

• Provide essential administrative and secretarial support.
• Take ownership of specific patent tasks applying knowledge of application procedures.
• Manage processes confidently and efficiently.

Skills

Patent processes and procedures

Inprotech or similar patent databases

Document management systems

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Collaborative mindset

Education

Completed the Introductory Patent Paralegal Course (IPPC)

Job description

Leeds, Bath or Cardiff | Hybrid Working | Full-Time | Fixed-Term (12 months)

Looking to make an impact in a leading patent firm?

We're looking for a Patent Paralegal to join EIP on a 12-month fixed‑term contract to cover maternity leave, supporting our team with essential patent work and administrative expertise.

At EIP, we’re more than just a tier‑one patent firm – we’re a team that celebrates curiosity, collaboration, and career development.

This maternity cover role offers a valuable opportunity to build on your experience in a dynamic legal environment, working alongside some of the best in the field.

You’ll work closely with designated fee earners, providing essential administrative and secretarial support to help maximise their time and impact.

You’ll also take ownership of specific patent tasks, applying your knowledge of patent application procedures to work independently and ensure deadlines are met with precision.

Your ability to manage processes confidently and efficiently will be key to your success.

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 3+ years’ experience in a patent paralegal role
• Completed the Introductory Patent Paralegal Course (IPPC)
• Strong understanding of patent processes and procedures
• Experience using Inprotech or similar patent databases
• Familiarity with document management systems
• Confident communication skills and a positive, can‑do attitude
• A collaborative mindset and keen attention to detail

Why you’ll love working here

EIP is an award‑winning patent practice known for handling high‑value, complex patent matters.

With offices across the UK, Germany, Sweden, and the US, we combine global reach with a collaborative, forward‑thinking culture where innovation, inclusion, and teamwork thrive.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance and flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support your wellbeing and work‑life balance.

We’re also deeply committed to diversity and inclusion – proud supporters of the IP Inclusive initiative and signatories to the IP Inclusive Charter.

Think you’re a great fit?

If you’re passionate about patents and thrive in a fast‑paced legal environment, we’d love to hear from you.

For more details, view the full Patent Paralegal - Fixed Term - Leeds, Bath, Cardiff - Job Spec.pdf