Patent Agent

A law firm in Boston, MA, is seeking a knowledgeable and proactive Patent Agent with a background in electrical engineering or biotechnology. The ideal candidate will support patent attorneys in preparing and prosecuting patent applications, collaborate with inventors on new technologies, and ensure the efficient management of the patent application process. This role requires technical expertise, strong research capabilities, and a thorough understanding of patent law and procedures.

Responsibilities:

• Assist patent attorneys in preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications, ensuring compliance with all legal and procedural requirements.
• Collaborate closely with inventors to document and refine newly created products and technologies.
• Identify and evaluate potential patentable inventions through analysis of current technologies and existing patents.
• Conduct comprehensive research on patented technologies to provide informed recommendations on patentability.
• Draft patent applications, including detailed descriptions and claims, with the support of the patent team.
• Track the patent application process from initial submission through to the grant, ensuring that all deadlines and procedural steps are met.
• Perform patentability searches and assess prior art to support the preparation of patent applications.
• Address client challenges and respond promptly to client needs related to patent matters.
• Prepare and submit responses to office actions and correspond with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as necessary.
• Consistently meet billable hour targets and contribute to the firm's overall productivity and success.

Requirements:

• 1+ years of professional experience in patent law, with a preference for 2+ years.
• Background in electrical engineering or biotechnology, with a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant science or engineering field.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or PhD in a related field.
• USPTO Registration required.
• Experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications, conducting patentability searches, and responding to office actions.
• Strong understanding of patent law, USPTO procedures, and patent databases.

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly and effectively.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to collaborate with inventors and patent attorneys in a team-oriented environment.
• Proficiency in managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
• Problem-solving skills to address client challenges and navigate patent-related issues.
• Familiarity with patent law software tools and databases.

Education & Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field.
• USPTO Registration required.

Formed over a century ago, this firm has grown tremendously with offices throughout the country. Focusing on providing excellent client service, the firm embraces integrity, teamwork, entrepreneurship, investment, celebration, perspective, accomplishment, and inclusiveness. Many of the attorneys have been included in the lists of Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and Rising Stars, and in the rank in U.S. News & World Report's list of Best Law Firms.