Mid-Level Product Design And User Interface / Patent Agent

Job Overview

A law firm is seeking a Mid-Level Product Design and User Interface/Patent Agent to join their growing Intellectual Property (IP) team in San Diego, CA. This role focuses on patent preparation and prosecution in cutting-edge technology sectors such as software, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), networking, and quantum technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong engineering or science background, combined with legal expertise and experience in patent law, to support clients in protecting their innovations.

Job Duties

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications, including drafting, filing, and corresponding with the USPTO and foreign patent offices.
• Conduct technical analysis and review of invention disclosures to assess patentability.
• Collaborate with inventors, engineers, and product design teams to thoroughly understand technologies and product innovations.
• Provide strategic advice to clients regarding IP portfolio management, patent strategies, and risk assessment.
• Perform patent searches, analyze prior art, and develop strategies to navigate patentability challenges.
• Assist in preparing responses to office actions, appeals, and other patent prosecution matters.
• Review and analyze technical and legal documents for compliance with USPTO requirements.
• Provide legal support for patent litigation, including patent infringement analysis and claim construction.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and relevant patent law developments.
• Participate in client meetings and presentations, delivering insights on patent matters and design-related issues.

Requirements

• 2+ years of relevant patent preparation and prosecution experience, particularly in the following fields:
  • Software-related technologies
  • Artificial intelligence technologies
  • Internet of Things (IoT) and networking technologies
  • Quantum technologies
• JD and admission to the USPTO are required.
• Proficiency in preparing patent applications related to complex technical innovations.
• Familiarity with both U.S. and international patent processes and regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in technical and legal matters.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact with clients and team members effectively.

Education and Certifications

• A bachelor’s degree in physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or a closely related technical field is required.
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active admission to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.

Skills

• Strong technical writing skills for patent drafting and prosecution.
• Ability to work effectively with inventors and technical experts to distill complex technologies into clear patent claims.
• Superior organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills to handle complex patent prosecution matters.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to convey complex legal and technical concepts to clients and team members.
• In-depth knowledge of patent law, patentability requirements, and USPTO practices.
• A proactive and strategic mindset in managing IP portfolios for clients.