Patent Agent (Bio)

Job Overview: A prominent law firm is seeking a skilled Patent Agent with a background in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, material science, or related medical device technology. The ideal candidate should possess 3+ years of experience in patent prosecution, with some exposure to patent portfolio analysis, due diligence, or other intellectual property transactional matters. Experience with PTAB proceedings is a plus, but not required. This position requires the ability to communicate complex technical matters, liaise with inventors and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and manage multiple projects efficiently.

Location:

•  Washington D.C.

Duties:

• Prepare draft patent applications, incorporating scientific aspects of inventions.
• Draft responses to communications from U.S. and foreign patent offices concerning factual and scientific matters.
• Evaluate and report on technological aspects of inventions, conducting research as necessary.
• Discuss scientific aspects of inventions with clients and inventors.
• Identify and analyze complex patent issues and provide solutions.
• Act as a liaison between inventors and the Patent & Trademark Office.
• Communicate effectively with clients, staff, and PTO personnel through various methods.
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality in all communications.
• Organize, prioritize, and complete multiple tasks under time constraints.
• Stay updated on technology trends and make recommendations as needed.
• Participate in continuing education to maintain appropriate accreditation.
• Enter and analyze data for lawyer and staff reports as required.

Requirements:

• 3+ years of experience in patent prosecution or related IP areas.
• Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, material science, or related medical device technology (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred).
• Registered to practice before the USPTO or qualified to sit for the patent bar.
• Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of patent documentation and procedures in the candidate's area of expertise.
• Familiarity with emerging developments and trends in technology.
• Proficient with research principles, methods, and techniques.
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks effectively under deadlines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for conveying technical information clearly.
• Proficient in time management software and Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Knowledge of prosecution docketing systems is a plus.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical responsibilities.
• Willingness to work additional hours when necessary to meet deadlines.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, material science, or related medical device technology required.
• Master’s or Ph.D. in a related field preferred.

Certifications:

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) preferred.
• Qualified to sit for the patent bar.

Skills:

• Expertise in patent prosecution and preparation of patent applications.
• Strong technical background in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or material science.
• Investigative and problem resolution skills.
• Advanced communication skills (both oral and written).
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and time management software.
• Experience with patent docketing systems is beneficial.

Benefits:

• Hybrid work arrangement (minimum of 3 days per week in the office, up to 2 days per week remote).
• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Opportunity for professional development and continuing education.
• Dynamic and collaborative work environment.

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.