Patent Associate Engineering

Job Overview:
A nationally recognized law firm is seeking a Patent Associate with 1–4 years of experience in patent prosecution to join its Patents and Innovations Counseling & Prosecution Practice. The ideal candidate will have a technical background in engineering or applied sciences, be registered with the USPTO, and demonstrate a strong interest in life sciences. This is an excellent opportunity to work on emerging technologies across a diverse client base, including those operating at the intersection of engineering, software, and biotechnology.

Location:

• New York, NY

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in engineering and technology-related disciplines

• Conduct patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses

• Support IP due diligence and portfolio management for mergers, acquisitions, and licensing transactions

• Collaborate with inventors, legal teams, and corporate clients on patent strategy

• Monitor industry and legal trends to inform and enhance client IP strategies

Requirements:

• 1–4 years of experience in a law firm patent prosecution practice

• Demonstrated interest in life sciences from either an academic or professional perspective

• Ability to manage multiple projects with efficiency and precision

• Strong interpersonal and client service orientation

Education:

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school

• Advanced degrees (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a technical discipline preferred

Certifications:

• Admitted to practice in at least one U.S. jurisdiction

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

Skills:

• Technical background in one or more of the following:

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Chemical Engineering

  • Materials Science

  • Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning

  • Related disciplines in applied sciences

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Excellent academic credentials

• Proficiency in legal research, patent drafting, and technical writing

• Collaborative mindset with a high degree of professionalism and organization

Benefits:

• Discretionary merit-based bonuses

• Monthly wellness reimbursements

• 24/7 access to virtual counseling and behavioral health resources

• Comprehensive health coverage for employees, spouses/domestic partners, and dependents

• Family-building benefits including IVF, adoption, surrogacy, and egg-freezing

• Paid parental leave

• Parenting concierge support and telemedicine

• Parents and caregivers resource group

• Career coaching services for working parents

• In-home and center-based back-up childcare

• Academic support for children (tutoring and college coaching)

• Health Savings Accounts (with firm contributions)

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

• 401(k) retirement plan with firm match

• Pretax commuter and parking benefits

• Basic and supplemental life insurance

• Short- and long-term disability insurance

• Voluntary insurance options including:

  • Long-term care

  • Critical illness, accident, and hospitalization

  • Identity theft protection

  • Pet insurance

• Medicare consulting services

• Firm-paid CLE, bar review fees, and professional dues

This Vault Law 100 and one of the Best Law Firm in the Emerging Companies & Venture Capital firm boasts cutting-edge clients, pleasant people, and a flexible work/life balance. The firm is a global player with very deep tech roots and has been ranked among the top 10 M&A advisors in the nation. As the premier provider of legal services to technology, life sciences, and growth enterprises worldwide, the firm is appealing to associates for fostering an entrepreneurial and collaborative environment across its attorney ranks, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, career growth, and building leadership and relationship skills with clients and colleagues. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.