Patent Agent (High Tech)

Job Overview:

A law firm is seeking an experienced and technically proficient Patent Agent to join its Intellectual Property team. This role involves managing complex patent prosecution matters, particularly within the semiconductor industry. The successful candidate will work closely with attorneys to prepare and file patent applications, draft responses to USPTO communications, and offer technological expertise in patent matters. This position offers an excellent opportunity for growth within a collaborative environment and the chance to work with leading industry professionals on cutting-edge innovations.

Location:

• Houston, TX

Duties:

• Prepare draft patent applications, focusing on the scientific aspects of inventions.
• Draft responses to communications from U.S. and international patent offices regarding technical and scientific matters.
• Engage with clients and inventors to discuss the technical details of inventions and relay the information to attorneys.
• Serve as a liaison between inventors and the Patent & Trademark Office (PTO) during the patent application process.
• Evaluate and provide reports on the technological aspects of inventions; assist attorneys with general and specialized technology matters.
• Draft, organize, review, analyze, and summarize complex technical documents.
• Communicate with staff, clients, vendors, and PTO personnel via email, phone, and face-to-face interactions.
• Prioritize and organize numerous tasks, ensuring all deadlines are met efficiently.
• Identify and solve complex patent-related issues, providing actionable solutions.
• Maintain confidentiality while interacting professionally with clients, attorneys, and staff.
• Guide and provide direction to legal support staff on technical matters.
• Stay current on technological trends and provide recommendations on relevant technology needs.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Material Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in patent preparation and prosecution, particularly in the semiconductor industry.
• USPTO registration (licensed to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office) is preferred.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret technical research findings and prepare comprehensive reports.
• Experience in drafting patent documentation, with knowledge of procedures, standards, and principles.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and effectively.
• Ability to manage and safeguard confidential information.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse groups.
• Proficiency with office software and patent-related tools.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Ability to travel locally or out of town as needed to support client matters.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Material Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field.

Certifications:

• USPTO registration (preferred).

Skills:

• Expertise in patent preparation and prosecution, especially in semiconductor technologies.
• Strong investigative and problem-solving abilities.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and synthesize complex technical data.
• Proficiency with office software and patent prosecution tools.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
• Knowledge of project management and time management strategies.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and office location.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• 401(k) retirement plan and other employee benefits.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Hybrid work option: 60% in-office, 40% remote.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

This Texas-headquartered elite firm is appealing for associates interested in energy work. The firm is serious about its career development. Junior associates are assigned a senior associate mentor and formal training at the firm is guaranteed. Associates confirmed the firm has an encouragement aspect and all workers strive to the best job they can do. This firm has gained important recognition in the community for its diversity efforts. Pro bono is popular among the attorneys and most have devoted over 100 years each year to pro bono efforts. Thefirm pays top-of-market compensation.