Chemical Associate

Job Overview
A distinguished intellectual property law firm is seeking a Patent Associate Attorney with 2+ years of patent prosecution experience to join its Chemical Patent Prosecution Practice Group. This position offers the opportunity to work on sophisticated patent matters involving inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and chemical engineering. The ideal candidate will participate in the full spectrum of patent-related services, including application drafting, prosecution, counseling, and appeals.

Location

• Alexandria, VA

Duties

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in the field of chemistry

• Analyze Office Actions and prepare responses to the USPTO

• Conduct invention disclosure meetings and client consultations

• Provide strategic counseling on patent-related issues and portfolio management

• Support patent litigation and transactional matters, such as licensing and agreements

• Draft legal memoranda and provide opinions on patentability, validity, and infringement

• Collaborate with inventors, in-house counsel, and technical teams

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in patent prosecution

• Strong understanding of U.S. patent laws and USPTO procedures

• Previous experience as a USPTO examiner or administrative patent judge is a plus

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school

• Master’s or Doctorate in a relevant technical field (preferred)

Certifications

• Admission to at least one U.S. state bar

• Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

Skills

• Technical background in inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, or chemical engineering

• Strong legal writing and research abilities

• Excellent interpersonal communication and client service skills

• Attention to detail and organizational skills

• Capable of working independently and as part of a team

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including:

• • 401(k) retirement plan

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Prescription coverage and health savings/flexible spending accounts (HSA/FSA)

  • Short-term and long-term disability

  • Group and supplemental life insurance

  • Critical illness and accident insurance

  • Legal and pet insurance

  • Long-term care coverage

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Onsite parking

This mid-sized Virginia office is one of the largest firms in the United States specializing exclusively in intellectual property law. Specialties of the firm include, but are not limited to, interference law, chemical/biotech patent law, electrical/mechanical patent law, software patent law, copyright law, and trademark law. They represent domestic and international clients, including multinational corporations, foreign and United States government agencies, universities, and businesses of every size. Attorneys enjoy a friendly work environment and receive nice salaries.