Junior To Mid-Level Product Design And User Interface Patent Associate Attorney

Job Title: Junior To Mid-Level Product Design And User Interface Patent Associate Attorney
Location: Seattle, WA

Job Overview:

A law firm is seeking a highly skilled Junior To Mid-Level Product Design And User Interface Patent Associate Attorney to join its Intellectual Property team. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background, engineering experience, and a proven track record in patent preparation and prosecution, particularly in advanced technology fields such as software, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies. This position requires a strategic thinker with excellent communication and writing skills to advise clients on patent-related matters and protect intellectual property assets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft, file, and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications, particularly in the fields of software, AI, IOT, networking, and quantum technologies.
• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and invalidity analyses.
• Develop and implement intellectual property strategies for clients, including advising on product design and user interface patents.
• Collaborate with inventors, engineers, and in-house counsel to capture innovation and maximize patent protection.
• Assist with portfolio management and patent strategy development.
• Conduct due diligence and provide counsel in support of licensing, litigation, and business transactions.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of patent law, including USPTO regulations and procedures.
• Work closely with clients to understand their business objectives and provide tailored legal advice.
• Participate in business development activities and contribute to the growth of the firm's IP practice.

Requirements:

• 2+ years of experience in patent preparation and prosecution, with a focus on advanced technologies.
• Strong academic background with a degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in handling software-related technologies, AI technologies, IOT, networking, or quantum technologies.
• Experience working with clients to advise on product design and user interface patents.
• Admission to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is mandatory.
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with at least one state bar (Washington preferred or ability to waive in).

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

• In-depth understanding of U.S. and international patent law and practice.
• Superb legal writing and communication skills.
• Experience in working within a law firm environment and with clients in high-tech industries.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle complex legal issues.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies, particularly in the fields of AI, IOT, networking, and quantum computing.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including inventors and engineers.

Certifications and Education:

• JD from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the USPTO is required.
• Admission to the Washington State Bar or ability to waive in (preferred).
• Degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field required.

Ranked as one of the Best Client Relationships firm and as one of the top Best Known Firms in the nation, the attorneys in this firm are invested in understanding their clients? businesses from all angels, including the risks, challenges, and issues affecting their industries. This AmLaw 100 firm values diversity and inclusion. Attorneys strive to build true partnerships with the firm?s clients. The firm invests in its associates by providing opportunities for professional development based on each person?s desired career path. The goal is to give each individual the opportunity to achieve their best and take pride in their performance and quality of work. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.