Patent Agent

Job Overview

An established East Coast-based law firm with a strong national and international client base is seeking a Patent Agent with at least four years of experience to join its Intellectual Property practice. This role supports a wide range of patent-related matters with a primary focus on biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to a collaborative team engaged in high-impact, cross-disciplinary work in the life sciences sector.

Location

• New York City, NY

Duties

• Evaluate the patentability of innovations across diverse technology areas

• Draft, file, and prosecute U.S. patent applications

• Coordinate international patent prosecution with foreign counsel

• Support strategic patent portfolio development and IP due diligence

• Conduct legal and technical research related to IP matters

• Collaborate with attorneys, clients, and business teams on IP strategy

• Serve as a liaison on interdepartmental initiatives and work with outside counsel

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of patent prosecution experience in a law firm or in-house setting

• Specialized experience in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices

• Eligibility to work with cross-functional teams on strategic IP matters

• Experience with mechanical or electrical patent prosecution is considered a plus

Education

• Ph.D. in a relevant life sciences discipline (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences)

Certifications

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (or eligibility to sit for the Patent Bar)

Skills

• Strong scientific and technical understanding in life sciences

• Proficient in drafting and prosecuting complex patent applications

• Effective written and verbal communication

• Legal research and analytical skills

• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Technological fluency and familiarity with current scientific trends

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package

• Access to complex, high-value IP matters across industries

• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development

• Collaborative and inclusive work culture

• Hybrid remote/in-office work flexibility

This firm is all about keeping costs low and revenue high--by servicing regional clients (including some impressive Manhattan companies) from their New Jersey offices. Although not terribly interested in glitz or glamour, this firm's practice areas, in particular ERISA and technology departments, do a good job of keeping step with their larger, more urban law firm competitors. Although one of New Jersey's largest and oldest firms, these lawyers try their best to keep a young attitude and management philosophy--and, according to our sources--are succeeding.