Patents Counsel (Electrical Engineering)

Job Title: Patent Counsel (Electrical Engineering)

Job Overview: A prominent law firm in Houston, TX is seeking a highly skilled Patent Counsel with a strong background in electrical engineering, particularly in patent prosecution related to wireless technologies, AI, and processor systems. This position is ideal for candidates looking to advance their legal careers in a dynamic, growing practice. The firm offers substantial opportunities for professional development and career advancement, including the potential for promotion to Senior Counsel and beyond.

Duties:

• Provide expert legal counsel on patent prosecution, focusing on cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, Wi-Fi, wireless technologies, AI, and processor systems.
• Manage patent portfolios for clients, ensuring timely filings and compliance with legal requirements.
• Draft and prosecute patent applications with a focus on electrical engineering and related fields.
• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity assessments for new technologies.
• Represent clients in dealings with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams to drive innovation and develop strategies for intellectual property protection.
• Stay up to date with developments in the patent law field, particularly those related to electrical engineering, wireless technologies, and AI.

Requirements:

• A degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).
• At least 2 years of patent prosecution experience.
• USPTO registration or eligibility to register with the USPTO.
• Admission to and good standing with a state Bar, or eligibility to waive in.
• Strong technical expertise in 5G, Wi-Fi, wireless technologies, AI, processor and memory systems, image processing, and RF front-end.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage complex patent portfolios and communicate effectively with clients.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field.

Certifications:

• Registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or qualified to register.

Skills:

• Strong background in patent prosecution and intellectual property law.
• Knowledge of autonomous vehicles, robotics, natural language processing, wireless communications, and computer vision is preferred.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience working directly with clients to manage and grow patent portfolios.
• Proficiency in managing and navigating complex legal documents and cases.

Job Location:

• Houston, TX.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health plans, including dental and vision coverage.
• Access to flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• Competitive paid time off, including 20 days of vacation and 11 firm holidays.
• Paid parental leave of at least 14 weeks.
• Retirement plans, including a 401(k) savings plan and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Professional development and coaching opportunities.
• Wellness benefits include mental health support, fitness programs, and pet insurance.

This highly-regarded firm, focused on rapid global growth, has client interaction and pro bono work high on its list of achievements. Partners are invested in junior associates and group-specific training sessions are very common. Associates confirm a ?we are in this together? attitude among themselves and partners. This firm is also heavily committed to community outreach and diversity. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.