Midlevel IP Procurement and Portfolio Management Associate

Job Overview:
A prestigious law firm is seeking a Midlevel Associate to join its IP Procurement & Portfolio Management group in Chicago. This role offers the opportunity to work with a talented team of intellectual property professionals on a range of patent prosecution and portfolio management matters. The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of experience in patent prosecution and strategic patent portfolio counseling, with a strong scientific or engineering background. This is a fantastic opportunity for a self-starter looking for mentorship and increased responsibility in a collaborative environment.

Location:

• Chicago, IL

Duties:

• Manage patent prosecution matters for a wide range of clients.
• Provide strategic counseling on patent portfolios, including development and management.
• Draft and file patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Conduct patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses.
• Assist in patent litigation and IP due diligence, as necessary.
• Work with senior attorneys and clients on various IP matters, offering strategic advice on patent portfolios.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop comprehensive IP strategies.
• Support patent litigation teams with portfolio management and strategic insights.
• Take part in client meetings and presentations, providing legal and technical advice.

Requirements:

• Education:
  • Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited U.S. law school.
• Certifications:
  • Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Experience:
  • 3-5 years of experience in patent prosecution and strategic patent portfolio counseling.
  • Experience in IP law, with a focus on patent prosecution.
  • A Ph.D. or graduate degree in a science or engineering field is strongly preferred.
• Skills:
  • Strong analytical and technical skills, with the ability to understand complex IP issues.
  • Excellent drafting, research, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Proficiency in using patent databases, legal research tools, and Microsoft Office.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Fluent in both written and verbal communication.

Benefits:

• Annual bonus potential based on performance.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with matching contributions.
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Flexible working arrangements and a supportive work environment.

A serious Big Law heavyweight with an especially solid reputation in the Pacific Northwest and the Mid-Atlantic regions, this firm excels in multiple arenas, from billion-dollar transactions to high-stakes litigation, and everything in between. These days, the firm is prioritizing international expansion, with offices opening across Europe, the Middle East, South America, and Asia, in a move that is sure to bring more cross-border work and multinational clients. Known for its friendly culture, working at this firm means collaborating with brilliant minds and extraordinary individuals.