Patent Associate Engineering

Job Overview:
A highly regarded law firm is seeking a Patent Associate with 1–4 years of experience in patent prosecution. The role is ideal for a technically skilled attorney with a background in engineering or computational disciplines and a demonstrated interest in life sciences. This position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and intellectual property law in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Location:

• Los Angeles, CA

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications

• Conduct freedom-to-operate and patentability analyses

• Develop IP strategies aligned with client business goals

• Interface with inventors, scientists, engineers, and in-house counsel

• Provide technical insights for IP-related litigation or licensing matters

• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams on emerging technologies

Requirements:

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

• Patent Bar registration required

• Strong foundation in engineering, computer science, or related technical fields

• Demonstrated interest or experience in life sciences preferred

• Exceptional legal research and writing ability

• Ability to work on multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school

• Advanced degrees (MS or PhD) preferred, particularly in:

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Chemical Engineering

  • Materials Science

  • Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning

Certifications:

• USPTO registration required

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

Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication

• Strong analytical and technical drafting skills

• Detail-oriented with exceptional organizational abilities

• Proven ability to collaborate within legal and technical teams

• Interest in continuing education and staying current with tech/IP trends

Benefits:

• Discretionary merit bonuses

• Monthly wellness reimbursements

• 24/7 virtual behavioral health support and counseling

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage for employees, spouses/partners, and dependents

• Family-building support: IVF, surrogacy, egg-freezing, and adoption assistance

• Paid parental leave

• Parenting support concierge services and telemedicine

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

• Tutoring and college coaching services

• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) with firm contributions

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

• 401(k) plan with firm matching

• Pretax commuter and parking options

• Basic and supplemental life insurance

• Short- and long-term disability coverage

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

• Voluntary identity theft and pet insurance

• Medicare consulting

• Firm-paid CLE programs, bar review fees, 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.