Patent Agent (Chemistry)

Job Title:

Patent Agent

Job Overview:

A distinguished law firm located in Houston, TX is seeking a highly motivated Patent Agent with a deep background in chemical sciences to support its intellectual property team. This role offers a dynamic environment for professionals who enjoy translating complex scientific concepts into strategic intellectual property protections. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic foundation, hands-on experience in patent drafting and prosecution, and a passion for working with innovation-driven clients.

Duties:

• Compose and review patent applications across a range of chemical and biochemical technologies

• Draft responses to U.S. and international patent offices, focusing on technical and scientific matters

• Collaborate with inventors and technical staff to understand and articulate scientific advancements

• Conduct due diligence, portfolio evaluations, and participate in IP transactional projects

• Provide insights on scientific concepts and contribute to legal analysis of patent-related issues

• Monitor updates in scientific research and technological advancements relevant to ongoing cases

• Maintain accurate records and documentation using firm-wide legal and IP systems

• Act as a liaison between inventors and regulatory offices, including the USPTO

• Participate in legal education and IP-specific learning initiatives

• Assist in managing docketing, filings, and internal reporting procedures

• Attend in-office work at least three days per week in a hybrid capacity

Requirements:

• 1-4 years of experience in patent preparation and prosecution within the chemical sciences

• Prior involvement in patent portfolio strategy, due diligence, or transactional IP work is desirable

• Familiarity with proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) is advantageous

• Proven ability to handle multiple deadlines and project timelines with minimal supervision

• Strong grasp of scientific writing, analytical reasoning, and legal documentation

Education:

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in:

  • Chemistry

  • Organic Chemistry

  • Medicinal Chemistry

  • Biochemistry

  • Chemical Engineering

Certifications:

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

Skills:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication tailored to both technical and legal audiences

• Familiarity with legal research tools and patent management systems

• Proficiency with productivity tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook

• Ability to interpret and communicate complex scientific data

• Capable of collaborating across teams and disciplines, including legal and technical professionals

• Highly organized and capable of managing priorities under time-sensitive conditions

• Understanding of confidentiality, ethics, and professional responsibility in a legal setting

Job Location:

• Houston, TX

• Hybrid schedule: Minimum of three days onsite per week

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.