IP Associate Patent Prosecution

A law firm seeks a qualified IP Associate to join its distinguished Intellectual Property team in Wilmington, DE. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in patent prosecution, with experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications related to mechanical, electrical, and software technologies. This is a dynamic opportunity to work with a variety of clients and contribute to their intellectual property strategies in both domestic and international markets. The firm is looking for an individual with strong academic credentials, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative mindset.

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in mechanical, electrical, and software technologies, both in the US and internationally.
• Collaborate with clients to develop patent strategies and enhance their intellectual property portfolios.
• Perform patentability assessments and provide opinions on freedom to operate.
• Respond to office actions and other patent office communications in various jurisdictions.
• Evaluate invention disclosures and provide strategic guidance to clients.
• Assist with the overall management of client patent portfolios.
• Support litigation teams by conducting legal research and providing technical analysis.

Requirements

• 2-4 years of experience in patent prosecution, particularly in mechanical, electrical, or software technologies.
• Strong understanding of US and international patent law and procedures.
• Experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications and handling office actions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact with clients and patent office officials.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Education

• A degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related technical field is required.
• Advanced degrees (Master’s or PhD) in relevant fields are highly desirable.

Certifications

• Registration to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficiency with patent prosecution tools and software.
• Attention to detail and exceptional technical writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with contributions.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities.

This firm has given a lot of thought to the interplay between the New York and the New Jersey legal markets. Although one of the oldest and largest in New Jersey, this firm wants to capture the Manhattan type work at Manhattan type billing rates. Although they are not quite there yet, this firm has developed a structure that enables it to base the bulk of its personnel and resources in New Jersey, and have a small New York space from which to handle the 'big city' work. An interesting plan, to be sure. Associates here raves about the reasonable hours and the immediate responsibility, many of whom deal directly with clients and handle entire cases. This is one of the few New Jersey firms where you will see the reverse commute--attorneys leaving Manhattan to take advantage of pleasant work environment and excellent training ground.