Patent Agent

Job Overview

A global law firm is seeking an experienced Patent Agent to join its Intellectual Property practice group in the Seattle office. This position is ideal for candidates with a background in electrical engineering, computer science, computer engineering, or physics, and hands-on experience drafting patent applications in the software industry. The role involves collaborating with attorneys on patent prosecution, litigation support, and due diligence for leading clients in technology and innovation sectors.

Location

• Seattle, Washington

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Analyze invention disclosures and technical documents to assess patentability

• Prepare responses to USPTO Office Actions and client communications

• Manage U.S. and foreign patent prosecution dockets and deadlines

• Conduct examiner interviews at the USPTO

• Support attorneys with due diligence and patent litigation as needed

• Prepare Information Disclosure Statements, declarations, and other prosecution-related filings

• Stay current with patent law developments and changes in relevant industries

Requirements

• Experience in patent prosecution, with a focus on software technologies

• Experience managing multiple assignments and deadlines in a dynamic work environment

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with legal teams and clients

• High attention to detail and responsiveness in a professional setting

Education

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree (M.S., Ph.D. preferred) in:

  • Computer Science

  • Computer Engineering

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Physics or other related technical discipline

Certifications

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

Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Strong research and analytical abilities

• Proven ability to work in a client-facing, team-driven legal environment

• Effective organizational and time-management skills

• Familiarity with software, AI, and emerging tech patent landscapes preferred

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Health savings and flexible spending accounts

• Short- and long-term disability coverage

• Life insurance and accident coverage

• Paid time off (25–30 days per year)

• 12 paid holidays annually

• Parental leave and family-building support

• Backup child/elder care services

• 401(k) retirement plan with profit sharing

• Student loan refinancing and concierge support

• Identity theft protection and fraud insurance

• Pet insurance, wellness programs, and EAP

• Continuing legal education (CLE) and professional development

• Technology, travel, and entertainment discounts

• Relocation support (if applicable)

• Bereavement and other statutory leaves

• Equal opportunity and inclusive work environment

A serious Big Law heavyweight with an especially solid reputation in the Pacific Northwest and the Mid-Atlantic regions, this firm excels in multiple arenas, from billion-dollar transactions to high-stakes litigation, and everything in between. These days, the firm is prioritizing international expansion, with offices opening across Europe, the Middle East, South America, and Asia, in a move that is sure to bring more cross-border work and multinational clients. Known for its friendly culture, working at this firm means collaborating with brilliant minds and extraordinary individuals.