Intellectual Property Associate Patent Prosecution

A law firm seeks an experienced Intellectual Property Associate to join its growing team in Newark, NJ. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in patent prosecution, with the ability to draft and manage patent applications in the mechanical, electrical, and/or software sectors. This role provides the opportunity to work on innovative technologies and collaborate with a diverse group of legal and technical professionals. Candidates should possess excellent academic credentials, outstanding writing skills, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts.

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications for both US and international filings across mechanical, electrical, and software technologies.
• Partner with clients to develop strategic patent portfolios and handle complex legal and technical issues.
• Conduct patentability evaluations and analyze the freedom to operate for new inventions.
• Respond to office actions and manage communications with patent offices globally.
• Review invention disclosures, providing advice on patent strategy and next steps.
• Assist with patent litigation efforts by contributing technical insights and research.
• Monitor and maintain client patent portfolios, ensuring all deadlines are met.

Requirements

• 2-4 years of experience in patent prosecution, particularly in the mechanical, electrical, or software technology fields.
• Strong familiarity with US and international patent prosecution processes.
• Experience in drafting and responding to office actions, as well as handling communications with patent offices.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, especially in technical writing and client interactions.

Education

• A technical degree (Bachelor's or higher) in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline is required.
• Advanced degrees (Master's or PhD) in a relevant field are a plus.

Certifications

• Registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.

Skills

• Proficiency in patent prosecution tools and related software.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple projects at once.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy in documentation and filings.
• Effective written communication skills for clear and concise technical writing.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision.
• 401(k) plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedules.
• 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 rave 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.