Patent Agent (High Tech)

Job Overview:

A prominent law firm is seeking a highly skilled and technically proficient Patent Agent to join its Intellectual Property team. This position involves working on complex and high-stakes patent prosecution, particularly in the semiconductor field. The successful candidate will draft patent applications, respond to communications from the USPTO, and collaborate with attorneys to deliver exceptional legal services to clients. This is a full-time, exempt position with an opportunity to work from multiple office locations and the possibility of a hybrid work arrangement.

Location:

• Austin, TX

Duties:

• Prepare draft patent applications, especially those incorporating scientific aspects of inventions.
• Draft responses to communications from U.S. and foreign patent offices, addressing factual and technical matters.
• Communicate with clients and inventors to discuss the scientific details of inventions and provide attorneys with detailed reports.
• Act as a liaison between inventors and the Patent & Trademark Office, overseeing all aspects of the patent application process.
• Evaluate and report on the technological aspects of inventions, advising attorneys on both general and specific technologies.
• Draft, organize, analyze, review, and summarize complex patent documentation.
• Communicate via email, phone, and in-person meetings with clients, vendors, staff, and PTO personnel.
• Prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
• Identify and resolve complex patent issues and provide effective solutions.
• Maintain professionalism when interacting with clients, lawyers, and employees at all levels while safeguarding confidentiality.
• Provide guidance and direction to legal support staff on technical matters.
• Stay current on emerging technology trends and recommend improvements regarding technology needs.
• Perform additional duties as needed.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Material Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 2 years of experience in patent preparation and prosecution, preferably in the semiconductor industry.
• Licensed to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is preferred.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret technical information and prepare comprehensive reports.
• Expertise in drafting complex patent documentation and understanding patent law principles.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage confidential information and use independent judgment.
• Proficiency in office software and other technical tools used in patent prosecution.
• Knowledge of time management and project management strategies.
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks under tight deadlines.
• Flexibility to travel locally and occasionally out-of-town as needed for client-related matters.
• This role may require occasional overtime or weekend work to meet deadlines.

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, particularly within the semiconductor industry.
• Strong technical knowledge of semiconductor technologies.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and investigative skills.
• Ability to work under time constraints and manage multiple priorities.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and make sound judgments.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in using office software and various patent prosecution tools.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and office location.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 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 professional development and career advancement.

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.