Electrical Engineering Patent Associate

Job Overview:
A respected law firm with a strong Technology & Intellectual Property practice is seeking an experienced Electrical Engineering Patent Associate to join its team. This position offers an opportunity to work on sophisticated patent prosecution matters, provide strategic IP counsel, and collaborate on projects involving litigation and transactional support. This role is ideal for a technically-minded legal professional eager to contribute to a dynamic and collegial legal team.

Location:

• Salt Lake City, UT

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications, with a focus on electrical engineering, computer science, and related technologies

• Provide legal and strategic business advice to clients on IP matters

• Collaborate with attorneys across disciplines in litigation and transactional IP work

• Assist clients in managing patent portfolios aligned with business goals

• Engage in client-facing responsibilities early in the role

• Contribute to community engagement and DE&I initiatives (up to 50 billable hours credited)

Requirements:

• 2–5 years of legal experience in patent prosecution (may include patent agent experience)

• Experience drafting patents in one or more of the following areas:

  • Software

  • Semiconductor manufacturing

  • Wireless communications

  • Optics

  • Medical devices

• Registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Member of the state bar in one of the listed locations, or ability to become licensed

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Sound legal judgment and professional perseverance

• Demonstrated client service orientation

• High level of intellectual curiosity and self-motivation

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field

Certifications:

• USPTO Registration

• State Bar Membership (or eligibility)

Skills:

• Patent drafting and prosecution

• Technical understanding of electrical and computer systems

• Strategic legal analysis

• Effective collaboration and teamwork

• Ability to simplify and communicate complex concepts

• Responsiveness and strong organizational habits

Benefits:

• Discretionary annual bonus program

• Unlimited PTO

• Paid family & medical leave

• Flexible scheduling and hybrid work options

• Sabbatical program for eligible attorneys

• Comprehensive insurance: medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D, and more

• Generous firm-funded Health Savings Account (HSA)

• Pre-tax transportation/parking benefits

• Up to 50 billable hours for DE&I activities

• Up to 50 billable hours for pro bono work

• Participation in ABA Well-Being Pledge

• Access to affinity groups, mentoring programs, and professional development resources

This large, rapidly growing, full-service law firm is making big strides in the global realm of telecommunications, e-commerce and dot coms in addition to having a very notable practice in international commerce, corporate and contract litigation. It is located in the Pacific Northwest with branches sprouting all over the country. Associates are encouraged to pursue community involvement to enhance their well-rounded approach to law and life. Billable hours credit is given for Pro Bono work, and the firm's hours requirements are very reasonable. Strong mentoring and training programs are present.