Associate Patent Attorney

A law firm seeks an Associate Attorney with experience in patent prosecution to join its Chemical Patent Prosecution Practice Group in Alexandria, VA. This role requires a technical background in one or more of the following areas: inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, biotechnology, chemical engineering, and/or pharmaceuticals. Industrial experience is beneficial. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on all aspects of patent law, including the preparation of patent applications, office action responses, client counseling, and appeals.

Duties

• Prepare and prosecute new patent applications.
• Draft and respond to office actions and prepare responses to rejections.
• Conduct invention and disclosure meetings with clients.
• Advise clients on patent-related issues, agreements, and transactions.
• Handle appeals before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Provide counsel to clients regarding patent strategies and patent portfolio management.
• Collaborate with other team members on complex technical matters and cases.
• Stay updated on developments in patent law and relevant technologies.

Requirements

• 2+ years of experience in patent prosecution, with a focus on chemical, biotech, or pharmaceutical patents.
• Strong academic background and track record of success.
• Demonstrated excellence in legal writing and communication.
• Ability to manage multiple cases and projects simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Technical background in one or more of the following areas: inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, biotechnology, chemical engineering, and/or pharmaceuticals.
• Industrial experience is a plus.

Education

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

Certifications

• Licensed to practice law in at least one U.S. state.
• Registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Skills

• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to translate complex technical information into clear legal strategies.
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with patent law and regulations.
• Proficiency in patent-related software and tools.

Benefits

• 401(k) with employer matching.
• Comprehensive medical insurance, including prescription coverage.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Group and supplemental life insurance.
• Long-term care, short-term disability (STD), and long-term disability (LTD) coverage.
• Disability income protection.
• Critical illness, accident, pet, and legal insurance options.
• Onsite parking is available.

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.