Patents (Chemical Engineering) Counsel

Job Overview:
A global law firm is seeking a Patents Counsel specializing in chemical engineering for its Austin, Texas office. The ideal candidate will support patent portfolio management and provide guidance on intellectual property concerns, including infringement, validity, and enforceability. This role offers a flexible work schedule, comprehensive benefits, and a vibrant professional environment focused on career growth and development.

Location:

• Austin, Texas

Duties:

• Manage patent portfolios, including evaluation and strategic planning
• Provide formal opinions on infringement, validity, and enforceability of intellectual property
• Draft and prosecute patent applications in the U.S. and international jurisdictions
• Engage directly with clients to develop and manage intellectual property strategies
• Conduct detailed research and analysis in areas such as organic chemistry, polymers, and downstream oil and gas operations
• Assist with due diligence and risk assessment in mergers, acquisitions, and licensing matters

Requirements:

• Registration to practice with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
• At least 3 years of experience in patent law, specifically chemical engineering-related inventions
• Proven ability to develop and manage intellectual property portfolios
• Strong understanding of organic chemistry, polymers, and downstream oil and gas technologies
• Experience providing detailed legal opinions on intellectual property matters

Education:

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field
• Juris Doctor (JD) preferred

Certifications:

• Active registration with the USPTO
• Admission to a state bar in good standing

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in managing client relationships and providing tailored legal advice
• Attention to detail and ability to work on complex, technical legal matters
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to collaborate across practices and regions

Benefits:

• Flexible work schedule supporting a healthy work-life balance
• Vacation incentive of $2,500 for non-partner lawyers meeting billable hour targets
• Professional development support, including business development training and coaching sessions
• Fertility and family-forming benefits with a $20,000 lifetime benefit for adoption, surrogacy, and related services
• Referral bonus program offering $30,000 for successful candidate referrals
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) and pre-tax savings accounts
• Retirement savings through 401(k) and profit-sharing plans
• Paid time off starting at 20 days annually, with additional paid parental leave of at least 14 weeks
• 11 firm holidays per year

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.