Patent Agent Intellectual Property (Engineering)

A law firm seeks an experienced Patent Agent with a strong foundation in engineering to join its Intellectual Property team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work on high-level patent applications, intellectual property due diligence, and freedom to operate (FTO) analyses. The ideal candidate will hold an advanced degree in engineering (Ph.D. preferred) and have substantial experience in patent prosecution and IP strategy. Candidates should be ready to work in person three times per week and contribute to an innovative, collaborative environment.

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications related to engineering technologies.
• Conduct in-depth intellectual property due diligence and FTO analyses.
• Collaborate with attorneys and clients to provide strategic IP guidance and protection.
• Assist in the development and management of patent portfolios.
• Participate in litigation support and post-grant proceedings as necessary.
• Maintain high-quality, detail-oriented work while managing multiple projects.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in engineering (Ph.D. preferred; Master's degree with relevant industry experience considered).
• Proven experience in patent prosecution and drafting applications.
• Strong background in IP due diligence and FTO analysis.
• Experience in litigation support and/or post-grant matters is a plus.
• USPTO registration is required.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team.
• Creative, entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on providing exceptional client service.

Education

• Advanced degree in Engineering (Ph.D. preferred, or Master's degree with relevant industry experience).

Certifications

• USPTO Registration (Required).

Skills

• Strong technical expertise in engineering, particularly as it relates to intellectual property law.
• Proven ability to draft and prosecute patent applications efficiently.
• Skilled in conducting detailed IP due diligence and FTO analyses.
• Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
• Ability to think critically and strategically to address client needs and IP challenges.
• Adaptability to work in a collaborative environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage including dental and vision.
• Professional growth opportunities and mentorship.
• Collaborative, dynamic work environment.
• Flexible work arrangements.

This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual with a strong technical background who is interested in contributing to cutting-edge intellectual property work. The role offers room for growth, the chance to work on impactful projects, and the ability to develop within a supportive team.

This large Boston firm has a surprisingly good government and regulatory practice, with the added bonus that their attorneys do not have to split their work with Washington DC lawyers in the same practice. This is a firm made up of well-rounded but most certainly well-pedigreed attorneys who come off unusually polished and professional. Associates here are generally quite satisfied, if not a little put off by what at times can be a bit of a competitive environment, both inside and outside the office. The strengths are that associates generally know whether they are 'on track' to make partner, and work in an environment that is designed with the appropriate mentoring and support staff to help associate development and training along.