Patent Prosecution Attorney

Job Overview

A nationally respected law firm is seeking a Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney with 1–3 years of experience to join its dynamic Intellectual Property practice group. This role is ideal for candidates with a strong technical background in mechanical engineering and a demonstrated interest in building a long-term career in patent law. The position offers a collaborative work environment, exposure to a wide range of technologies, and a strong foundation for career growth.

Location

• Milwaukee, WI

Duties

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

• Respond to office actions issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Conduct prior art searches and draft patentability and freedom-to-operate opinions

• Advise clients on IP strategy and portfolio development

• Collaborate with inventors and technical teams to assess inventions and prepare filings

• Assist with due diligence and other patent-related matters for transactional work

• Stay informed of developments in U.S. and international patent law

Requirements

• 1–3 years of experience in patent prosecution

• Demonstrated ability to manage deadlines and multiple assignments

• Excellent writing and analytical skills

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

• Ability to work independently and in team settings

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

• Strong academic record preferred

Certifications

• Active registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Admission to at least one U.S. state bar (or eligibility for prompt admission in jurisdiction of office)

Skills

• Undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering (required)

• Technical proficiency in drafting patent documents for mechanical inventions

• Strong communication skills for client and examiner interaction

• Familiarity with patent prosecution software and docketing systems

• Ability to distill complex engineering concepts into clear legal language

Benefits

• Bonus opportunities based on performance

• Comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

  • Health, vision, and dental insurance

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

  • Paid time off and firm-recognized holidays

  • Life and disability insurance

  • Access to wellness programs and support services

• Eligibility for benefits based on hours worked and office location

This large firm operates like a small law firm, with offices across the nation, and the quality of its attorneys and work is high. The firm's lawyers try cases all over the nations, and try more cases than most firms in the country. The firm hires the best and brightest from top national and regional law schools. The pay is average, but the billable requirement is reasonable. People work hard, but the firm realizes that quality of life is just as important. The firm handles virtually all types of litigation and transactional law. It has been a legal powerhouse in the Midwest for a long time. The size allows the firm to handle the most complex transactions and cases, and its clients include many Fortune 500 companies. Associates are allowed to choose the practice areas and specific assignments that interest them, and they will be challenged with responsibility and client contact.