Patent Agent

A law firm seeks a qualified Patent Agent to join its Intellectual Property team in Saint Louis, MO. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with inventors to secure patent rights for innovative products and technologies. This role requires expertise in science or engineering, a solid understanding of patent laws, and the ability to manage patent application processes from inception to grant.

Duties

• Collaborate with inventors to identify patentable aspects of new products and technologies.
• Conduct thorough research of existing patents to assess patentability.
• Draft, review, and finalize patent applications with support from the intellectual property team.
• Respond to office actions and maintain correspondence with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Track and manage the patent application process to ensure timely completion and submission.
• Conduct patentability and freedom-to-operate searches.
• Address client inquiries and provide strategic solutions to intellectual property challenges.
• Consistently meet billable hour expectations and maintain high standards of client service.

Requirements

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a science or engineering discipline (required).
  • Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a related field (preferred).
• Certifications:
  • Registration with the USPTO (required).
• Experience:
  • At least 1 year of professional experience (required).
  • 2+ years of experience in patent law or a related field (preferred).

Skills

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate technical and legal issues effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities to draft precise patent applications and interact with clients.
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining alignment with team goals.
• Knowledge of the patent prosecution process and USPTO procedures.
• Strong organizational skills with the capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Commitment to continuous learning and adapting to changes in patent law and technology trends.

Benefits

• A supportive and inclusive work environment committed to diversity and equal opportunity.
• Opportunities for professional growth through training and development programs.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, retirement savings plans, and wellness programs.

Independent lawyering with top of the market pay, this firm offers flexible hours, a good work/life balance, and diverse clientele. This firm entrusts its associates to take on a work load of their choice and provides a collegial environment to do so. This firm also values diversity, receiving a perfect score on the 2017 Corporate Equality Index.