Biotechnology/Pharmaceutical Patent Attorney

Job Overview

A highly regarded Pacific Northwest law firm is seeking a full-time Patent Attorney with a focus on biotechnology and/or pharmaceuticals to join its Intellectual Property practice. This role offers an excellent opportunity to work on complex patent prosecution and strategy for clients in the life sciences sector. The firm values collaboration, independence, and technical excellence. 

Location

• Seattle, WA

Duties

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications related to biotechnology and pharmaceuticals

• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity analyses

• Provide legal opinions and IP strategy guidance to clients

• Support patent portfolio development and management

• Communicate and collaborate with clients, inventors, and colleagues

• Manage IP projects with both autonomy and teamwork

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in biotech/pharma patent prosecution

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a collaborative setting

• Strong client service orientation and project ownership

• Admission to Washington bar (or eligibility for reciprocity)

Education

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a life sciences field, such as:

  • Biology

  • Biochemistry

  • Immunology

  • Molecular and Cellular Biology

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school

Certifications

• USPTO registration (required for all applicants)

• State bar membership in Washington

Skills

• Excellent legal and technical writing skills

• Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills

• Exceptional academic credentials and references

• Ability to explain complex scientific and legal concepts clearly

• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and time management abilities

• Commitment to high standards of professionalism and client service

Benefits

• Annual eligibility for productivity and discretionary merit bonuses

• Comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions

  • Paid time off, holidays, and personal leave

  • CLE and professional development funding

  • Wellness programs and firm-paid expenses

• Flexible hybrid work schedule to support collaboration and balance

• Recognition as a Mansfield Rule Plus Certified firm

• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion; applicants from underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply

Representing a wide range of businesses, with offices in California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and California, this is one of the largest firms, specializing in bankruptcy, business and corporate, employment, environment, intellectual property, Native American law, real estate, privacy and data security, tax and estate planning, dispute resolution, and litigation. The firm has an environment where everybody is enthusiastic and team-oriented. Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the firm recruits, retains, and promotes diverse talents in the firm and the communities. Believing in giving back, the attorneys provide substantial legal assistance to help more than 100 pro bono clients per year and support a low-income housing legal clinic in Seattle. The firm offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits including medical, dental, life, 401(k) or profit-sharing retirement, tuition reimbursement, and paid time off.