Intellectual Property Patent Agent

A law firm in Chicago is seeking a skilled Intellectual Property Patent Agent with expertise in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, motivated, and thrive in a client-focused, team-oriented environment. The role involves drafting and prosecuting patent applications, and the candidate should have strong writing skills and excellent academic credentials.

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications related to chemical engineering, chemical compounds, chemical processes, biochemistry, and related technologies.
• Conduct thorough prior art searches and analyses to support patentability assessments.
• Prepare and file patent applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Respond to office actions, including drafting persuasive arguments and amending patent claims.
• Collaborate with inventors and clients to gather technical information and refine patent applications.
• Review and analyze patent portfolios to provide strategic advice on patent rights and intellectual property strategies.
• Keep abreast of advancements in relevant scientific fields and changes in patent law and regulations.
• Prepare technical documents and correspondence for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (required).
• Minimum of 2+ years of experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications in chemical engineering, chemical compounds, chemical processes, biochemistry, or related technologies (experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, or life sciences applications is a plus).
• Strong academic credentials and professional recommendations.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Certifications

• Registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as a Patent Agent is preferred but not required.

Skills

• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of patent laws, regulations, and procedures.
• Ability to draft clear, concise, and persuasive patent applications and responses.
• Proficiency in technical analysis related to chemical and biotechnological inventions.
• Collaborative mindset with a client-focused approach.

Benefits

• Discretionary bonus
• Life, health, accident, and disability insurance
• 401(k) plan

A Vault 100 firm widely cited for its outstanding mentorship opportunities for new associates and for its prestigious clientele, associates also applaud its impressive pro-bono policies, which consider pro-bono work just as important as billable work in calculating bonuses and advancement. They also cite mobility within the firm and say that lower-level associates often work closely with partners on projects, making growth opportunities abundant to those looking for career development.