Junior To Mid-Level Product Design And User Interface Patent Associate Attorney

Job Overview:

A law firm is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Junior To Mid-Level Product Design And User Interface Patent Associate Attorney to join its intellectual property team in San Diego, CA. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in patent preparation and prosecution with a focus on software-related, artificial intelligence, IoT, networking, and quantum technologies. This role is ideal for someone with strong academic achievements, industry experience, and a desire to work in a dynamic and fast-paced legal environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patent Prosecution & Preparation:
  • Draft, file, and prosecute patent applications with a focus on cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, networking, and quantum technologies.
  • Develop and manage patent portfolios for clients in a variety of technology sectors.
  • Conduct patentability assessments, freedom-to-operate analyses, and due diligence reviews.
• Client Interaction:
  • Work closely with clients to understand their technology, products, and IP strategies.
  • Provide strategic counsel to clients regarding patent and IP-related matters.
  • Regularly communicate with clients to provide updates on patent filings and prosecution status.
• Collaboration & Mentorship:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, product design, and development teams, to ensure comprehensive IP protection.
  • Mentor junior attorneys, patent agents, and technical specialists, helping them develop their skills in patent prosecution.
• Legal Research & Writing:
  • Conduct detailed legal research on patent laws and technology-specific issues.
  • Draft legal opinions, memoranda, and responses to USPTO office actions.
• IP Strategy Development:
  • Assist clients in developing intellectual property strategies that align with their business goals.
  • Provide insight into how emerging technologies impact patent law and portfolio strategies.

Education & Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Active license to practice law in California or the ability to obtain one.
• A degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science is required.

Preferred Experience:

• 2+ years of relevant experience in patent preparation and prosecution.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:
  • Software-related technologies.
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning.
  • Internet of Things (IoT) and networking technologies.
  • Quantum technologies and computing.

Certifications:

• Admission to the USPTO (mandatory).
• Admission to the California Bar (preferred, if willing to take the Bar exam).

Skills & Competencies:

• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of the technical fields of AI, quantum computing, IoT, software, and networking technologies.
• Strong Communication Skills: Ability to communicate complex technical and legal concepts to clients, engineers, and legal teams.
• Research & Analytical Skills: Strong capability to conduct in-depth legal and technical research and apply findings to patent filings and strategy.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional attention to detail, particularly in the drafting and prosecution of patents.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a team of attorneys, clients, and engineers.
• Time Management: Capable of managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Job Location:

• San Diego, CA