Associate Attorney needed for Houston office

Job Title:
Patent Associate Attorney

Job Overview:
A respected law firm is seeking a skilled and motivated Associate Attorney to join its team in Houston, TX. The ideal candidate will specialize in preparing and prosecuting patent applications in technical fields such as Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Software Engineering. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic attorney with relevant technical experience to contribute to high-profile intellectual property matters and grow within a thriving practice.

Duties:

• Draft, file, and prosecute patent applications in a variety of technical domains, including Chemical, Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, and Software Engineering.
• Conduct patentability assessments, including freedom-to-operate and prior art searches.
• Manage patent portfolios for clients, ensuring strategic development and protection of intellectual property assets.
• Collaborate with inventors and clients to gather technical information and create robust patent applications.
• Advise clients on patent law and intellectual property issues, providing clear and actionable legal guidance.
• Handle patent office communications, including office actions, responses, and appeals.
• Support clients in litigation matters as necessary, including pre-litigation analysis and dispute resolution.

Requirements:

• 2-3 years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably with technical backgrounds in one or more of the following: Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Software Engineering.
• Strong understanding of patent law and procedures, including preparing applications, office actions, and appeals.
• Experience managing patent portfolios and client relationships effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze complex technical concepts and distill them into legally sound applications.

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• A degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Software Engineering.

Certifications:

• Licensed to practice law in the state of Texas.
• Registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is preferred.

Skills:

• Strong technical background in at least one of the specified engineering fields.
• Experience with patent prosecution software and databases.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Job Location:
Houston, TX

Benefits:

• Flexible work environment, including the option for telecommuting.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) program with employer contributions.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and continuing education support.

With fifteen attorneys providing top of the class intellectual property services, this firm was founded in Texas about six years ago. Its practice areas include US agent practice, patent drafting services, patent preparation, and litigation and licensing support. The firm serves a wide range of clients ranging from small to mid-level and large global businesses. The firm aims at expanding its business globally and serving a wider range of clientele.