Patent Agent

A law firm in New York City, NY, is seeking a detail-oriented and skilled Patent Agent with a background in electrical engineering or biotechnology. The successful candidate will support patent attorneys in preparing and prosecuting patent applications, work closely with inventors on innovative technologies, and manage the patent application process effectively. This role requires a solid understanding of patent law, excellent research skills, and the ability to handle complex patent-related tasks.

Responsibilities:

• Assist patent attorneys in the preparation, filing, and prosecution of patent applications, ensuring compliance with legal and procedural standards.
• Collaborate directly with inventors to document and refine new products and technologies.
• Identify potential patentable inventions through analysis of existing technologies and prior art.
• Conduct in-depth research on patented technologies to support client patentability assessments.
• Draft patent applications, including detailed descriptions and claims, with guidance from the patent team.
• Track and manage the patent application process from initial submission to granted patent, ensuring all deadlines are met.
• Perform patentability searches and evaluate prior art to support patent application strategies.
• Address and resolve client challenges related to patent matters, providing timely and effective solutions.
• Prepare responses to office actions and correspond with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as necessary.
• Consistently meet billable hour requirements and contribute to the firm's overall productivity.

Requirements:

• 1+ years of professional experience in patent law, with a preference for 2+ years.
• Background in electrical engineering or biotechnology, with a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant science or engineering field.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or PhD in a related field.
• USPTO Registration required.
• Experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications, conducting patentability searches, and responding to office actions.
• Strong understanding of patent law, USPTO procedures, and patent databases.

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex technical concepts.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Ability to work effectively with inventors and patent attorneys in a collaborative team environment.
• Proficiency in managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines in a dynamic setting.
• Problem-solving skills to address client challenges and navigate patent-related issues.
• Familiarity with patent law software tools and databases.

Education & Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field.
• USPTO Registration required.