Patent Prosecution Attorney

Job Overview

A nationally recognized law firm is seeking a Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney with 1–3 years of experience to join its expanding Intellectual Property practice. The ideal candidate will have a background in mechanical engineering and a strong interest in building a long-term career in patent prosecution. This role offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative and growth-oriented team, handling cutting-edge technologies across a range of industries.

Location

• Madison, WI

Duties

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and foreign patent applications in the mechanical arts

• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity analyses

• Collaborate with inventors, engineers, and clients to develop effective IP strategies

• Respond to Office Actions and interact with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

• Support due diligence and IP transactional work as needed

• Maintain accurate and timely docket management for ongoing matters

• Stay current on changes in patent law and USPTO practices

Requirements

• 1 to 3 years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably in a law firm setting

• Undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering (required)

• Demonstrated commitment to client service and professional development

• Strong work ethic and attention to detail

• Ability to manage competing deadlines and work collaboratively in a team environment

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school

• Strong academic record preferred

Certifications

• Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Active state bar membership or eligibility to obtain licensure in one of the listed office locations

Skills

• Excellent technical and legal writing skills

• Strong communication and analytical abilities

• Proficiency in mechanical and engineering concepts

• Familiarity with patent databases, prosecution tools, and docketing systems

• Ability to interact professionally with clients, colleagues, and patent examiners

• Organized, proactive, and capable of handling multiple matters concurrently

Benefits

• Performance-based bonus opportunities

• Comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) retirement plan

  • Paid time off

  • Life and disability insurance

  • Additional firm-sponsored wellness and support programs

• Eligibility for benefits dependent on hours worked and office location

This large firm operates like a small law firm, with offices across the nation, and the quality of its attorneys and work is high. The firm's lawyers try cases all over the nations, and try more cases than most firms in the country. The firm hires the best and brightest from top national and regional law schools. The pay is average, but the billable requirement is reasonable. People work hard, but the firm realizes that quality of life is just as important. The firm handles virtually all types of litigation and transactional law. It has been a legal powerhouse in the Midwest for a long time. The size allows the firm to handle the most complex transactions and cases, and its clients include many Fortune 500 companies. Associates are allowed to choose the practice areas and specific assignments that interest them, and they will be challenged with responsibility and client contact.