Technical Advisor/Patent Agent - Electrical/Software

Job Title: Technical Advisor/Patent Agent - Electrical/Software

Job Overview:
A law firm based in Alexandria, VA, is seeking a Technical Advisor or Patent Agent fluent in Japanese to join its intellectual property team specializing in electrical and software-related innovations. The role focuses on patent application drafting, patent prosecution, and client interactions involving high-tech subject matter, particularly in software and artificial intelligence. This position offers the opportunity to work within a specialized IP practice with exposure to advanced technologies and international client communications.

Duties:

• Draft detailed and technically accurate patent applications in electrical, computer, and software domains

• Manage the prosecution of patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

• Prepare responses to office actions and communicate legal strategies to clients

• Participate in disclosure meetings and collaborate with inventors and engineers

• Translate technical concepts and inventions into clear and defensible patent language

• Maintain a consistent workflow while meeting internal deadlines and client expectations

• Leverage Japanese language skills to interact with overseas clients and review source materials

Requirements:

• 1-2 years of hands-on experience in drafting or prosecuting patent applications

• Proficiency in Japanese (spoken and written) is required for client engagement and document analysis

• Demonstrated expertise in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related technical fields

• Prior experience with AI and software patent applications strongly preferred

• Strong written and verbal communication capabilities with an ability to explain complex concepts clearly

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipline required

• An advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in a relevant field is considered advantageous

Certifications:

• USPTO registration as a Patent Agent is preferred but not mandatory for Technical Advisor roles

Skills:

• Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail

• Technical writing proficiency and legal drafting expertise

• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for client and team collaboration

• Familiarity with patent laws, prosecution strategies, and technical innovation trends

Job Location:

• Alexandria, VA

• On-site role

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance including medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage

• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options

• 401(k) retirement plan with firm contributions

• Short-term and long-term disability insurance

• Life and supplemental life insurance

• Critical illness, accident, and long-term care insurance

• Legal and pet insurance options

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Onsite parking

• Structured internal training and mentorship opportunities

• Career advancement potential within a specialized IP law environment

This mid-sized Virginia office is one of the largest firms in the United States specializing exclusively in intellectual property law. Specialties of the firm include, but are not limited to, interference law, chemical/biotech patent law, electrical/mechanical patent law, software patent law, copyright law, and trademark law. They represent domestic and international clients, including multinational corporations, foreign and United States government agencies, universities, and businesses of every size. Attorneys enjoy a friendly work environment and receive nice salaries.