Patent Agent

Job Title: Patent Agent

Job Overview:
A prominent law firm located in Austin, TX, is seeking a Patent Agent to join its forward-thinking team. This role involves collaborating with inventors, researchers, and attorneys to manage patent portfolios, draft and prosecute patent applications, and provide strategic counsel on intellectual property matters. The position is ideal for professionals with a strong technical background and a passion for innovation.

Duties:

• Collaborate with inventors and researchers to evaluate new technologies and assess patentability.
• Draft, file, and prosecute patent applications before the USPTO.
• Respond to office actions and other communications from the USPTO.
• Conduct patent portfolio evaluations and manage client portfolios effectively.
• Provide opinions on potential patent infringement, validity, and enforceability.
• Offer strategic guidance to clients regarding intellectual property protection.

Requirements:

• Registration to practice before the USPTO.
• A degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Strong understanding of organic chemistry, polymers, and downstream oil and gas operations.
• Experience with patent portfolio evaluation and management.
• Ability to work directly with clients to develop and manage intellectual property strategies.

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or a related technical discipline is required.
• Advanced degrees in relevant fields are highly valued.

Certifications:

• USPTO Registration (mandatory).
• Bar admission (preferred).

Skills:

• Strong analytical and research abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Familiarity with patent drafting tools and software.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines effectively.

Job Location:

• Austin, TX

Benefits:

• Flexible Work Schedule: Work from the office one day per week for Patent Agents, with options for hybrid schedules.
• Paid Time Off A minimum of 20 days of paid leave based on role and tenure, plus 11 firm holidays.
• Parental Leave: At least 14 weeks of paid parental leave for bonding with newborn or adopted children.
• Professional Development: Business development reimbursement and coaching opportunities for high-performing employees.
• Fertility and Family Benefits: Inclusive benefits covering fertility treatments, adoption, and surrogacy with a $20,000 lifetime benefit.
• Referral Bonus Program: Substantial bonuses for successful referrals of qualified candidates.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access to medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, as well as pre-tax health savings and flexible spending accounts.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan and profit-sharing options.

This highly-regarded firm, focused on rapid global growth, has client interaction and pro bono work high on its list of achievements. Partners are invested in junior associates and group-specific training sessions are very common. Associates confirm a ?we are in this together? attitude among themselves and partners. This firm is also heavily committed to community outreach and diversity. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.