Intellectual Property Associate

Job Overview
A nationally recognized law firm is seeking a highly motivated Intellectual Property Associate with 2–4 years of experience to join its dynamic IP practice. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background and demonstrated success in handling patent and/or trade secret litigation. This position provides the opportunity to work on complex, high-profile matters across industries such as technology, life sciences, and engineering, in a collaborative and high-performance legal environment.

Location

• San Francisco, CA

Duties

• Handle all aspects of intellectual property litigation including patent and trade secret matters

• Draft pleadings, discovery materials, motions, and briefs

• Conduct legal research and develop case strategy

• Assist in trial preparation and courtroom proceedings

• Participate in proceedings before the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) and the USPTO’s Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB)

• Collaborate with experts and technical consultants to support litigation strategy

• Contribute to inter partes review (IPR) and other post-grant proceedings

• Work closely with partners and clients on case management and communication

Requirements

• 2 to 4 years of experience in intellectual property, including patent and/or trade secret matters

• Strong litigation, research, and advocacy skills

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet deadlines

• Experience in high-stakes forums such as the Eastern District of Texas, Northern District of California, ITC, or PTAB (preferred)

• Strong academic background and proven work ethic

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Certifications

• Active membership in the State Bar where the attorney will be located (required)

Skills

• Excellent legal writing and oral advocacy abilities

• Strong technical understanding and ability to handle complex scientific concepts

• Proficiency in managing multiple litigation matters simultaneously

• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills

• Experience with or willingness to learn IP litigation software platforms

Preferred Technical Background

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in one of the following (or equivalent work experience):

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Computer Science

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Physics

  • Chemistry

  • Biochemistry

  • Chemical Engineering

Benefits

• Annual discretionary performance-based bonuses

• Comprehensive health coverage: medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

• Mental health and wellness benefits

• Childcare, eldercare, and pet care assistance

• Short-term and long-term disability insurance

• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

• 401(k) retirement plan with firm match

• Flexible Time Off (FTO) policy and generous paid holidays

• Paid parental leave

• Continued legal education support and career development opportunities

• Inclusive, collaborative work culture

This preeminent San Francisco firm offers a full-service practice which covers a number of areas, including: Litigation, Corporate, Tax, Environmental, Labor & Employment, and Real Estate. Many of the firm's top clients are investment banks, but, in recent years, the firm has expanded its intellectual property litigation practice. The atmosphere is collegial, but slightly more conservative than most Bay Area firms. Salaries are in line with other top Bay Area firms, and the firm provides a $10,000 bonus for all lawyers who bill at least 1,950 hours, with additional money based on three separate billable-hour levels above 1,950.