Patent Associate Engineering

Job Overview:
A nationally recognized law firm is actively seeking a Patent Associate with 1–4 years of experience in patent prosecution to join its growing Patents and Innovations (Counseling and Prosecution) practice. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in engineering or computational sciences and a demonstrated interest in life sciences. This is a dynamic opportunity for a detail-oriented professional to work with top-tier clients and cutting-edge technologies across a broad range of industries.

Location:

• San Diego, CA

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications for domestic and international clients

• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and due diligence analyses

• Develop IP strategies for a diverse client base in high-tech and life sciences sectors

• Engage in patent portfolio management and client counseling

• Collaborate with inventors, engineers, in-house counsel, and cross-functional teams

• Provide technical support to litigation or transactional matters when needed

Requirements:

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

• Strong foundation in at least one of the following:

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Chemical Engineering

  • Materials Science

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML)

• Demonstrated interest or experience in life sciences (industry or academic)

• Strong legal writing and analytical skills

• Ability to manage multiple deadlines with professionalism and precision

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited U.S. law school

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in a technical field preferred

Certifications:

• USPTO registration required

• Active bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction

Skills:

• Superior written and verbal communication

• Exceptional research and technical writing abilities

• Strong interpersonal skills and client service mindset

• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and time management skills

• Collaborative team player with the ability to work independently

Benefits:

• Discretionary merit bonuses

• Monthly wellness reimbursements

• 24/7 virtual counseling and emotional health support

• Health insurance for employees and eligible dependents (including same- or opposite-sex spouses/domestic partners)

• Family-building benefits (IVF, adoption, surrogacy, egg-freezing)

• Paid parental leave

• Parenting concierge services and telemedicine access

• Parents and caregivers resource groups

• Career coaching and mentorship for working parents

• Backup childcare (in-home and center-based)

• Tutoring and college counseling for older children

• Health Savings Accounts (with firm contributions)

• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)

• 401(k) plan with firm matching

• Pretax commuter and parking benefits

• Life insurance (basic and supplemental)

• Short- and long-term disability coverage

• Voluntary long-term care, critical illness, accident, and hospitalization insurance

• Voluntary identity theft protection and pet insurance

• Medicare consulting services

• Full coverage of CLE, bar exam review, and bar 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.