Patent Agent - Technology

Job Overview

A law firm seeks a Patent Agent to join its Intellectual Property Practice Group in Washington, D.C. The role involves preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The position offers a hybrid in-office/remote working schedule and involves significant client responsibilities.

Duties

• Perform patent searching and investigate inventorship issues.
• Manage the intake of invention disclosures and review for patentability.
• Evaluate qualification and applicability of prior art.
• Study and analyze scientific or technical documents for patentability.
• Draft new patent applications and manage e-File filings.
• Convert applications between provisional, utility, and foreign formats.
• Prepare replies to U.S. and foreign office actions.
• Assist attorneys with prosecution and develop patent portfolios.
• Conduct interviews with USPTO examiners and prepare appeals.
• Prepare reexamination petitions and other related documents.
• Meet with clients to discuss inventions and patent claims.
• Provide patent prosecution training.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of experience in patent applications in the electrical arts.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or eligible for the exam.
• Excellent writing and research abilities.
• Proficiency in written and verbal communication.
• Strong organizational skills.

Education

• Bachelor's or graduate degree in electrical engineering, computer science, software engineering, or related field.

Certifications

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.

Benefits

• Law school tuition reimbursement program.
• Comprehensive medical and financial benefits.
• 401(k) eligibility.
• Paid time off benefits, including vacation, sick time, and parental leave.

One of DC's most powerful firms is this one. Truly an international giant in every sense of the word, business and finance, M&A, labor law and litigation reign supreme here although the IP practice is coming into its own also. Like many other large firms attrition is high at times, but overall the associates here are well-credentialed and well paid. In DC, this firm's litigation section, especially with respect to technology and intellectual property disputes, tops the list in terms of prestige. However, this is one of the few firms that virtually guarantees great work and top-notch training, regardless of the practice area.