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

Job Overview:

A law firm located in Houston, TX, is seeking a Junior to Mid-Level Product Design and User Interface Patent Associate Attorney. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background, relevant patent preparation and prosecution experience, and a degree in a technical field such as physics, electrical engineering, or computer science. This position will focus on patent matters related to cutting-edge technologies such as software, artificial intelligence, IoT, networking, and quantum technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft, file, and prosecute patent applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Conduct prior art searches and patentability analyses for various innovations in software, AI, IoT, and related technologies.
• Provide legal counsel on patent strategies and intellectual property (IP) matters to clients, including startups, mid-sized companies, and large corporations.
• Collaborate with inventors, engineers, and other technical professionals to understand the underlying technology and develop strategies to protect IP.
• Handle USPTO office actions, including drafting responses and amendments.
• Support litigation teams in technical matters during patent infringement and validity disputes.
• Stay updated on evolving patent law, including new regulations and case law that may impact clients.
• Participate in client meetings, manage relationships, and act as a liaison between the firm and the client’s R&D and engineering teams.
• Assist in the preparation of legal opinions, including freedom-to-operate and patentability assessments.
• Support business development efforts by identifying potential clients and contributing to the firm’s thought leadership through writing and presentations.

Education and Certifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.
• Admission to a state bar (Texas preferred but not mandatory).
• Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2+ years of patent preparation and prosecution experience in a law firm or corporate setting.
• Experience working with software-related technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), networking, and/or quantum technologies.
• Previous engineering or industry experience in a technical role is highly preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information in clear, concise legal language.
• Superb technical understanding of various patentable technologies, especially in software, AI, IoT, and quantum computing.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously.
• High level of academic achievement, with proven analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and effectively interact with clients, inventors, and other professionals.
• Proficiency in patent management software and tools used for patent filings and prosecution.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with new and emerging technologies, particularly in software, AI, networking, and quantum computing.
• Experience in client-facing roles, providing strategic patent counseling, and building strong client relationships.
• Technical experience or certification in relevant fields (such as AI or networking) would be advantageous.

Job Location:

Houston, TX

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.