Junior/Mid-Level Associate Intellectual Property (Engineering)

A law firm seeks a Junior/Mid-Level Associate with a strong technical foundation in engineering to join its Intellectual Property practice. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on high-level patent applications, IP due diligence, and freedom to operate (FTO) analyses. Ideal candidates will possess an advanced degree in engineering, with a Ph.D. being preferred. You will be involved in patent prosecution, client counseling, and some litigation or post-grant matters, and will contribute to a dynamic team dedicated to providing exceptional client service. Candidates must be ready to work in person three times a week, fostering close collaboration within the team.

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in a variety of engineering disciplines.
• Conduct IP due diligence and FTO (freedom to operate) analyses for clients.
• Provide strategic counsel on intellectual property issues and portfolio management.
• Assist with litigation support and post-grant proceedings as needed.
• Collaborate with clients and other attorneys to ensure effective, innovative solutions.
• Manage multiple projects efficiently while meeting deadlines and maintaining high-quality standards.

Requirements

• 1 to 4 years of experience in Intellectual Property, specifically patent law.
• Strong technical background in engineering, with a preference for candidates holding a Ph.D. or a Master's degree with substantial industry experience.
• Proven experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications.
• Experience with IP due diligence and FTO analysis.
• Familiarity with litigation and/or post-grant proceedings is a plus.
• Must be registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to manage client relationships and provide exceptional service.
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively and take an entrepreneurial approach to IP issues.

Education

• Advanced degree in Engineering (Ph.D. preferred; Master’s degree with industry experience considered).

Certifications

• USPTO Registration (Required).

Skills

• Strong technical understanding of engineering principles, particularly in relation to patent law.
• Expertise in drafting and prosecuting patent applications.
• Proficient in conducting IP due diligence and FTO analyses.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and concisely.
• Creative and entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on client service.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits including dental and vision.
• Professional development opportunities and mentoring.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.

This is a great opportunity for candidates who want to leverage their technical background in a legal environment. If you are passionate about Intellectual Property law and eager to work with high-profile clients, this role provides both challenge and the potential for professional growth.

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.