Patent Agent (Engineering)

Job Overview

A law firm seeks an experienced Patent Agent to join its Prosecution & Counseling department in Washington, D.C. This role is ideal for a Patent Agent with a strong technical background interested in intellectual property strategy, patent preparation, and prosecution for a diverse client base, including major consumer products companies, academic institutions, and start-ups.

Duties

• Draft, file, and prosecute high-quality patent applications.
• Prepare responses to U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) office actions.
• Conduct examiner interviews and perform freedom to operate analyses.
• Conduct scientific, technical, and legal research to support prosecution and portfolio strategy.

Requirements

• An advanced degree in electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or a related field.
• Admission to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.
• Minimum of two years of law firm patent preparation and prosecution experience.
• Sound judgment, maturity, and an inquisitive nature with a strong work ethic.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with business leaders, attorneys, scientists, engineers, inventors, and patent examiners.
• A demonstrated commitment to providing exceptional client service and a creative and strategic approach to prosecution.

Education

• Advanced degree in electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or a related field.

Certifications

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

Skills

• Strong technical background in relevant fields.
• Ability to juggle multiple job responsibilities.
• Exceptional client service orientation.

Benefits

• Multiple health care plan options, vision and dental insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts/health saving accounts and life insurance.
• Employer-sponsored 401(k) plan with employer match and discretionary profit sharing.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
• Generous paid time off, including sick time and vacation time, parental leave.
• Commuter benefits, charitable matching gift program, well-being support.