Patent Agent

Job Overview:

A law firm in Charlotte, NC, seeks a highly skilled and motivated patent agent to join its intellectual property (IP) team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications, conducting patentability assessments, and assisting with various IP-related projects. This position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, providing comprehensive IP services to a diverse client base.

Job Description:

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications before the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Assist IP attorneys in representing clients in Patent Office proceedings, patent litigation, and general patent prosecution matters.
• Conduct patentability assessments and third-party patent searches.
• Perform patent diligence for mergers and acquisitions.
• Assist the IP team with patent clearance and enforcement projects as needed.

Requirements:

• 3+ years of intellectual property experience in patent transactional matters.
• Experience in prosecuting patent applications in mechanical and electrical engineering fields.
• Strong preference for candidates with additional experience in chemistry or biochemistry.
• Excellent patent application drafting and prosecution skills.
• Well-developed patent database search skills.
• Excellent time management skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively within a law firm environment.

Education:

• Undergraduate degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering.
• Advanced technical degree preferred.

Certifications:

• Must have a USPTO registration number.

Skills:

• Substantive academic and professional knowledge in relevant technical fields.
• Proficient in patent database search and analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines efficiently.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy.

Benefits:

• Generous total compensation package with performance-based bonuses and raises.
• Comprehensive health and wellness plans.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• 401(k) plan and profit-sharing plan.
• Employee discount programs.
• Backup childcare support.
• Substantial Paid Time Off (PTO) program.

This international law firm has 800 lawyers that work in 17 offices throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. They are a leading practice in the 43 different areas they practice in, including intellectual property, corporate, international, litigation, global finance, and government and regulations.