Biotechnology/Pharmaceutical Patent Agent

Job Overview

A respected Pacific Northwest law firm is seeking a full-time Biotechnology and/or Pharmaceutical Patent Agent to join its Intellectual Property practice group. The successful candidate will work with clients in the life sciences sector, advising on patent prosecution and strategy. This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a scientific background in the biosciences, excellent communication skills, and at least two years of experience in biotech-related patent work. The role offers hybrid work flexibility and is based in one of the firm’s Oregon or Washington offices.

Location

• Bend, OR

Duties

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in biotechnology and pharmaceutical fields

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

• Provide strategic counseling on patent portfolio development and IP protection

• Prepare legal opinions and advise on regulatory/IP intersections

• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams and technical experts

• Manage projects independently while coordinating with colleagues and clients

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of biotech/pharmaceutical patent prosecution experience

• Strong understanding of USPTO rules and procedures

• Ability to work independently and in collaborative team environments

• Excellent writing, interpersonal, and communication skills

• High degree of professionalism and commitment to client service

• Willingness to work in-office Tuesday through Thursday (with flexibility for remote work on Mondays and Fridays)

Education

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

  • Biology

  • Biochemistry

  • Immunology

  • Molecular and Cellular Biology

Certifications

• USPTO registration required (for all applicants)

Skills

• Strong patent drafting and prosecution abilities

• Ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly in writing and speech

• Excellent academic credentials and professional references

• Demonstrated initiative and accountability on projects

• Comfortable working in a team-based, client-focused environment

• Strong client service ethics and responsiveness

Benefits

• Eligibility for annual productivity and discretionary merit bonuses

• Full benefits package including:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) with employer contributions

  • Paid time off, holidays, and sick leave

  • Continuing legal education and professional development support

  • Wellness programs and firm-paid business expenses

• Hybrid work structure with in-office presence encouraged Tuesday–Thursday

• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including support for historically underrepresented groups

• Mansfield Rule Plus Certified firm, recognizing leadership diversity efforts

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.