Patent Agent

A law firm seeks a Patent Agent to join its established Intellectual Property team in Wilmington, DE. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in patent prosecution, with experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications for technologies such as mechanical, electrical, or software-related innovations. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with a variety of cutting-edge technologies, collaborate with a diverse team, and contribute to the development of robust patent portfolios. Strong communication, technical writing, and interpersonal skills are essential for success in this role.

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in the US and internationally across mechanical, electrical, and software-related fields.
• Collaborate with clients and legal teams to develop comprehensive patent strategies.
• Conduct patentability assessments and analyze the freedom to operate.
• Respond to office actions and communicate effectively with patent offices, including international counterparts.
• Review and assess new patent disclosures from clients, providing strategic guidance.
• Assist with managing and maintaining client patent portfolios.
• Support patent litigation teams by conducting research and providing technical insights.

Requirements

• 2-4 years of experience in patent prosecution with a focus on mechanical, electrical, or software technologies.
• Familiarity with both US and international patent prosecution processes.
• Strong understanding of patent law and patent office procedures.
• Ability to work autonomously and thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with an ability to clearly articulate complex ideas.

Education

• A degree in a technical field such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or computer science is required.
• Advanced degrees (Masters or PhD) in a relevant field are a plus.

Certifications

• Must be registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Skills

• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Expertise in patent prosecution software and related tools.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• High attention to detail and precision in all aspects of work.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical ideas in writing.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package.
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision).
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedules.
• 401(k) plan with firm contributions.
• Support for professional development and continuing education opportunities.

This firm has given a lot of thought to the interplay between the New York and the New Jersey legal markets. Although one of the oldest and largest in New Jersey, this firm wants to capture the Manhattan type work at Manhattan type billing rates. Although they are not quite there yet, this firm has developed a structure that enables it to base the bulk of its personnel and resources in New Jersey, and have a small New York space from which to handle the 'big city' work. An interesting plan, to be sure. Associates here raves about the reasonable hours and the immediate responsibility, many of whom deal directly with clients and handle entire cases. This is one of the few New Jersey firms where you will see the reverse commute--attorneys leaving Manhattan to take advantage of pleasant work environment and excellent training ground.