Patent Attorney

Job Overview

A law firm is seeking a highly motivated Patent Attorney to join its team in Des Moines, IA. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in mechanical or electrical engineering, as well as 1-5 years of experience in patent law. This role will primarily focus on patent prosecution and will require excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills. The candidate must be registered to practice with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office and licensed to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, with the ability to become licensed in Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, or Wisconsin.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare, draft, and prosecute patent applications for clients in various industries.
• Conduct thorough patent searches to evaluate the novelty and patentability of inventions.
• Analyze technical documents and prior art to assist with patent prosecution and strategy.
• Represent clients in matters before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Provide counsel to clients on intellectual property (IP) matters, including patentability, infringement, and validity.
• Collaborate with clients to understand and protect their innovations and intellectual property.
• Review and negotiate IP-related contracts such as licensing agreements, non-disclosure agreements, and joint development agreements.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of patent law and emerging trends in intellectual property law.
• Work closely with internal teams to support litigation or other legal proceedings related to intellectual property rights.
• Advise clients on strategies for patent portfolio management and development.
• Provide ongoing legal support for the commercialization and enforcement of intellectual property rights.

Job Requirements

• 1-5 years of experience in patent law, with an emphasis on patent prosecution.
• A strong technical background in mechanical or electrical engineering or a related field.
• Excellent interpersonal, analytical, and writing skills.
• Ability to manage multiple clients and cases with strong attention to detail.
• Strong academic credentials and professional work experience.

Education and Certifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Active attorney license in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, with the ability to promptly become licensed in Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, or Wisconsin.

Skills and Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of U.S. patent laws and regulations, particularly about patent prosecution.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex technical information.
• Proficient in legal research and writing, with the ability to draft high-quality legal documents.
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively work with clients and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced legal environment.
• Strong organizational and project management skills to handle multiple deadlines and responsibilities.
• Proficiency in legal software and research tools related to patent prosecution and IP management.

Job Location

• Des Moines, IA

With offices in the US, Mexico and China, this business law firm was established in the late 1940s. The firm has over 300 employees working with a proactive, problem-solving mindset. Some of the awards and rankings achieved by the firm are Leading Firm by Chambers USA 2013, Top Listed in Best Lawyers, Go-To Top 500 firms, Best Law Firms 2014 by US News, WILEF Certified 2013, Best Places to Work by Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal and certified by World Trademark Review. The firm not only serves as legal counselors but as strategic partners and business advisors working on the concept of ?law meets business?. They specialize in family law, immigration, environmental law, intellectual property, litigation, bankruptcy, employment & labor, real estate, mergers & acquisitions, securities, property tax appeals and government relations.