Engineering Patent Agent

Job Overview: A law firm is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Engineering Patent Agent to join their team in Washington, DC. The ideal candidate will be responsible for evaluating patentability, drafting patent applications, and assisting in the global prosecution of complex patent families. The role requires expertise in electrical and mechanical arts, along with strong research and analytical skills in Intellectual Property matters.

Duties:

• Evaluate the patentability of innovations and invention disclosures.
• Prepare, draft, and file patent applications.
• Draft responses to domestic and foreign Office Actions.
• Perform research and analysis on various patent and Intellectual Property issues.
• Conduct prior art database searches for patentability and freedom to operate analyses.
• Prepare draft amendments to patent claims, specifications, and abstracts.
• Assist patent attorneys in the global prosecution of complex patent families.

Requirements:

• 2 years of experience drafting original patent applications and prosecuting pending applications in the electrical and mechanical arts.
• Degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or equivalent technical experience.
• Advanced degree preferred.
• Candidates currently licensed to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as an agent are strongly preferred.
• Consideration is given to candidates with extensive experience planning to take the Patent Bar.
• Familiarity with Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) practice is preferred.
• Proficiency in Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office Suite and/or related software.
• Excellent academic credentials and references.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage time effectively, handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail.

Education:

• Degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or equivalent technical experience.
• Advanced degree preferred.

Certifications:

• Candidates currently licensed to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as an agent are strongly preferred.

Skills:

• Proficiency in Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office Suite and/or related software.
• Familiarity with Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) practice.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, both oral and written.

This firm offers a diverse, challenging practice among a congenial, creative group of polished attorneys in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. The firm offers numerous perks and is very diversity conscious. The firm is very selective, and a solid academic background from a top-ranking school typically is required; federal clerkships and law review also are highly valued.