Patent Agent/Tech Advisor

Job Title: Patent Agent / Technical Advisor

Job Location: Reston, VA

Job Overview:
A dynamic law firm is seeking a skilled and motivated Patent Agent/Technical Advisor to support its growing patent counseling and prosecution practice. The ideal candidate will possess strong industry experience in fields such as chemical, mechanical, material, or biomedical engineering, combined with the ability to analyze complex technical data. This position involves assisting in patent prosecution, counseling, and litigation by conducting patentability searches, drafting patent applications, and analyzing scientific and patent documents.

Duties:

• Conduct prior art searches to assess patentability and freedom to operate.
• Analyze patent applications, scientific papers, and documents to aid patent attorneys.
• Draft and file patent applications, and prepare responses to office actions.
• Assist in patent litigation and counseling as needed.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams, contributing to various technical aspects of the practice.
• Manage technical details across multiple technologies, including mechanical and biomedical engineering.

Requirements:

• At least 1 year of experience working in a law firm or similar professional environment.
• Strong industry background in chemical engineering, material science, biomedical engineering, or related technical fields.
• Familiarity with patent prosecution processes and freedom to operate analyses.
• Registered with the USPTO as a patent agent, or eligible to sit for the USPTO registration exam.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proven ability to quickly learn new technologies and effectively communicate complex technical concepts.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

Education:

• A degree in Material, Chemical, Mechanical, or Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.

Certifications:

• USPTO Registration as a Patent Agent, or eligibility to take the exam.

Skills:

• Advanced technical expertise in mechanical or biomedical engineering.
• Ability to conduct thorough prior art and patentability searches.
• Strong drafting and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with teams and manage technical information.

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Health savings accounts (with the applicable medical plan).
• Flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care.
• Pre-tax commuter benefits.
• Life insurance, AD&D, and long-term care coverage.
• Backup care for children and adults, with additional parental support benefits.
• Generous vacation and sick leave (four weeks vacation, two weeks sick time).
• Ten paid holidays per year.
• Fertility benefits and parental leave options.
• Access to firm-paid life insurance, LTD, and short-term medical benefits.
• Law school tuition assistance for patent agent candidates.

Creative lawyering in a laid back environment is big draw for associates at this Amlaw firm. This California-based firm is highly regarded as one of the most innovative firms in the market. The firm is best known for its technology work and life sciences clients, and is generally recognized as the top legal provider for emerging companies. The California culture of the firm fosters a collaborative and social workplace, while the sophisticated training and meaningful attorney mentorship help develop associates into world class lawyers.