Patent Associate Attorney

Job Title: Patent Associate Attorney 

Job Overview:
A respected law firm based in Salt Lake City, UT seeks a driven Patent Associate with a strong foundation in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields. This position involves a wide range of IP matters focused on next-generation technologies including wireless systems, semiconductors, and software innovations. The ideal candidate is passionate about innovation, thrives in a collaborative environment, and brings a detail-oriented mindset to sophisticated legal work in intellectual property.

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications with a focus on electrical, computer, and software-related technologies

• Advise clients on patent portfolio strategy and protection of core technologies

• Conduct IP due diligence and freedom-to-operate analyses

• Support post-grant proceedings and patent enforcement efforts as needed

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on patent strategy and IP risk assessment

• Stay current with developments in patent law and emerging technologies

• Participate in internal training, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and mentorship opportunities

Requirements:

• Minimum of 2 years of recent experience in patent preparation and prosecution

• Exposure to or direct experience with technologies such as:

  • Wireless telecommunications

  • Communication networks and standards

  • Electrical and computer hardware

  • Memory and storage devices

  • Semiconductors

  • Cloud computing and data protection technologies

  • Wearable tech and next-gen consumer electronics

• Admitted to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office

• Strong organizational skills and client-focused communication style

Education:

• Bachelors or advanced degree in:

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Computer Science

  • Computer Engineering

  • Physics

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Or closely related technical disciplines

• JD from an accredited law school

Certifications:

• USPTO registration required

• Bar admission in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, preferably Colorado, Utah, or Idaho

Skills:

• Technical writing and analytical thinking for patent prosecution

• Ability to translate complex technology into understandable legal documentation

• The team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently

• Adaptability in a fast-paced, innovation-driven legal practice

• Familiarity with patent analytics tools and docketing systems

Job Location:

• Salt Lake City, UT

• Opportunities for hybrid and flexible work arrangements are available

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance effective upon hire

• Life and disability coverage (STD/LTD)

• Enhanced parental leave and automatic transition programs pre/post parental leave

• Unlimited paid time off with additional sabbatical options for eligible employees

• Retirement savings plan with firm match

• Inclusive family-building and fertility benefits

• Subscription services for legal education and professional development

• Optional coverage including critical illness, accident, and long-term care insurance

• Participation opportunities in charitable and volunteer work through firm-sponsored initiatives

• Flexible schedule and work/life integration support through wellness programs and retreats

This is undoubtedly one of the Mountain West's most distinguished law firms. This firm has super legal work, very good compensation and really emphasizes lifestyle for the associates who join the firm. A large law firm, with offices throughout the United States, this firm has established itself as one of the key power players in the Mountain West legal community. A great number of the attorneys who are a part of this firm are in The Best Lawyers in America. This is undoubtedly one of the best firms to work for in the Mountain West region, and we have heard praises of this firm from virtually every associate we have ever spoken with here. This firm practices in virtually all areas of the law and is strong in most. The largest praises we have heard of this firm are in its corporate and litigation departments.