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

Job Overview

A law firm is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Junior To Mid-Level Product Design And User Interface Patent Associate Attorney. The ideal candidate will bring a strong academic background, relevant law firm experience, and engineering expertise to effectively support clients in patent preparation and prosecution. This role focuses on emerging technologies, including software, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and quantum technologies. Candidates must be able to deliver exceptional legal services in a fast-paced environment, work collaboratively with other attorneys, and manage a variety of tasks related to patent law.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and prosecute patent applications with a focus on technologies related to software, AI, IoT, networking, and quantum technologies.
• Conduct patentability analyses and advise clients on strategies for protecting intellectual property.
• Collaborate with clients to understand and identify innovative solutions requiring patent protection.
• Conduct legal research on patent law, intellectual property regulations, and emerging technology trends.
• Review and draft detailed technical specifications and legal documents, ensuring clarity and compliance with USPTO requirements.
• Coordinate with inventors and technical experts to gather necessary technical information for patent filings.
• Provide legal counsel and guidance on patent portfolio management, ensuring alignment with business goals.
• Manage ongoing communication with the USPTO, handling office actions, and addressing any legal objections or concerns.
• Assist in due diligence and freedom-to-operate analyses related to new technologies and business strategies.
• Support litigation teams when patent infringement or validity cases arise.

Requirements:

• Education:

  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
  • Bachelor or advanced degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

• Experience:

  • 2+ years of relevant experience in patent preparation and prosecution, ideally within a law firm setting.
  • Hands-on experience in the patenting of technologies related to software, AI, IoT, networking, and/or quantum technologies.

• Certifications:

  • Admission to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.
  • Admission to the North Carolina Bar or willingness to take the North Carolina Bar exam.

Preferred Skills:

• Strong knowledge and expertise in patent law, especially related to cutting-edge technologies such as:
  • Software-related inventions.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.
  • Internet of Things (IoT) and networking technologies.
  • Quantum technologies.
• Exceptional research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Superb legal writing and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with technical professionals and explain complex technical concepts in a legally understandable manner.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
• Proficiency in patent portfolio management and strategic intellectual property planning.

Job Location:

• Raleigh, NC

Ranked as one of the Best Client Relationships firm and as one of the top Best Known Firms in the nation, the attorneys in this firm are invested in understanding their clients? businesses from all angels, including the risks, challenges, and issues affecting their industries. This AmLaw 100 firm values diversity and inclusion. Attorneys strive to build true partnerships with the firm?s clients. The firm invests in its associates by providing opportunities for professional development based on each person?s desired career path. The goal is to give each individual the opportunity to achieve their best and take pride in their performance and quality of work. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.