Patent Agent (High Tech)

Job Overview:

A prestigious law firm is seeking an experienced Patent Agent to join its Intellectual Property team. This role is designed for individuals with a strong technical background and a passion for high-tech patent prosecution. The position involves drafting patent applications, preparing responses to communications from the USPTO, and working closely with attorneys to provide exceptional legal services to clients in the semiconductor industry. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of semiconductor technologies and at least 2 years of patent preparation and prosecution experience.

Location:

• San Francisco, CA

Duties:

• Prepare draft patent applications, particularly those incorporating scientific and technological aspects of inventions.
• Draft responses to communications from U.S. and foreign patent offices, addressing factual and scientific matters.
• Discuss the technical details of inventions with clients and inventors, providing attorneys with thorough reports on these discussions.
• Serve as the liaison between inventors and the Patent & Trademark Office, facilitating communication throughout the patent application process.
• Evaluate and report on the technological aspects of inventions, advising attorneys on both general and specific technologies.
• Draft, organize, analyze, and summarize patent-related documents.
• Communicate effectively via email, phone, and in-person with clients, vendors, staff, and PTO personnel.
• Prioritize multiple tasks and ensure deadlines are met in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
• Identify and resolve complex patent issues, offering effective solutions.
• Interact professionally with clients, attorneys, and staff, ensuring confidentiality and maintaining professional courtesy.
• Provide guidance and direction to legal support staff on technical matters.
• Stay informed on emerging technology trends and make recommendations regarding patent-related technologies.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Material Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Licensed to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in patent preparation and prosecution, ideally within the semiconductor industry.
• Strong problem-solving and investigative skills.
• Expertise in drafting complex patent documentation, with knowledge of relevant procedures and standards.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with diverse teams and individuals.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work under time constraints and prioritize competing demands.
• Proficient in using various software tools and office equipment.
• Familiarity with time management and project management strategies.
• Ability to facilitate individual and group meetings.
• Ability to travel to client locations as needed, including occasional out-of-town assignments.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Material Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field.

Certifications:

• USPTO registration is preferred.

Skills:

• Expertise in patent preparation and prosecution, especially in the semiconductor industry.
• Strong technical understanding of semiconductor technologies.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and investigative skills.
• Advanced written and verbal communication abilities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
• Proficiency in using software packages and standard office equipment.
• Ability to prioritize and manage a high-volume workload under tight deadlines.
• Understanding of current trends and developments in patent law and technology.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and location.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• 401(k) and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Hybrid work arrangement (minimum 60% in-office, up to 40% remote).
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.

This Texas-headquartered elite firm is appealing for associates interested in energy work. The firm is serious about its career development. Junior associates are assigned a senior associate mentor and formal training at the firm is guaranteed. Associates confirmed the firm has an encouragement aspect and all workers strive to the best job they can do. This firm has gained important recognition in the community for its diversity efforts. Pro bono is popular among the attorneys and most have devoted over 100 years each year to pro bono efforts. Thefirm pays top-of-market compensation.