Patent Agent

A law firm in Washington, DC, is seeking a highly qualified Patent Agent with an aerospace engineering background and experience in engine technology. This role is dedicated to technology prosecution matters, providing an opportunity for the candidate to utilize their deep technical knowledge exclusively in patent prosecution. The ideal candidate will have experience either as a patent examiner at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or in patent drafting within a law firm, with strong academic credentials and technical expertise in aerospace or mechanical engineering.

Duties:

• Manage and prosecute patent applications focusing on aerospace engineering and engine technology.
• Draft detailed patent applications, including claims and technical descriptions.
• Conduct patentability analyses and prepare comprehensive responses to USPTO Office Actions.
• Collaborate with inventors and technical experts to gather relevant technical information.
• Review and analyze patent claims, technical specifications, and legal requirements.
• Provide strategic guidance on patent portfolio management and patent strategy.
• Assist with appeals and other USPTO proceedings as required.
• Stay updated on relevant developments in patent law and technology trends.

Requirements:

• Background in aerospace engineering or mechanical engineering.
• Registered patent agent with examining experience at the USPTO or patent drafting experience in a law firm setting.
• Strong preference for prior experience as a patent examiner.
• Industry experience in aerospace or engine technology is a plus.
• Excellent academic credentials with undergraduate and/or graduate degrees in aerospace engineering or mechanical engineering.
• Strong writing skills and sharp analytical ability.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (required).
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (preferred).

Certifications:

• Registered Patent Agent with the USPTO.

Skills:

• Extensive knowledge in aerospace engineering and engine technology.
• Proven ability to draft and prosecute patent applications with high precision.
• Experience with patent examination processes and requirements.
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting complex technical information and patent law.
• Excellent writing and communication skills for drafting patent documents and responding to USPTO inquiries.
• Ability to manage multiple patent prosecution matters efficiently.
• Strong attention to detail and capability to work independently.

With a longtime DC presence, this strong and reputable firm takes an active role in community and pro bono activities. Recognizing the importance of longevity, this firm goes far to preserve its relationship with its associates. What does that mean for the firm employing hundreds of lawyers in a wide variety of practice areas? It means that associates are well trained and a family atmosphere is fostered. The firm is consistently ranked as one of the top 100 firms and generally considered a great place to work.