IP Specialist

Our Intellectual Property Services department has an excellent opportunity for an IP Specialist in the IP Services department. The position reports to the Patent Manager. The open position focuses on US patent prosecution matters, from pre-filing to grant, in support of the patent prosecution practice.

Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate and apply in-depth knowledge of patent filing and prosecution practices in the USPTO. Stay up-to-date with current patent laws and practices.
• Assist with the preparation and filing of patent related documents with the USPTO. Ensure legal documents are processed in a timely and efficient manner complying with the firm's quality control requirements, client guidelines, and USPTO regulations and deadlines.
• Monitor, maintain, and clear dockets for due dates and prepare reminders to attorneys and clients as needed.
• Work with Docketing department to prepare status and docket reports for attorneys and clients.
• Coordinate and interact effectively with attorneys, clients, and other patent paralegals and specialists on domestic and international patent matters.
• Compose correspondence to attorneys and clients regarding all aspects of patent prosecution.
• Review and process incoming correspondence from the USPTO.
• Update client reports.
• Create, maintain, and organize electronic and paper files; maintain client preferences and contacts within firm systems.
• Enter billable hours in the firm's timekeeping system for certain tasks.
• Assist with miscellaneous client-related projects, including updating client IP Management Systems.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements:

• Associate Degree (A.A.) from a two-year college with a minimum of 5 years of patent filing and prosecution experience; or the equivalent combination of education and experience. Prior experience working in a fast-paced professional services environment is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience utilizing Document Management Systems, such as NetDocs. Ability to leverage the Firm's software to improve efficiency and a proven aptitude to learn new software applications.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills with an ability to prioritize, multi-task and be detail-oriented to complete simultaneous projects with minimal supervision. A tolerance for uncertainty and ability to demonstrate good judgment, tact, and flexibility under pressure in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines.
• Strong analytical and communication skills both oral and written. Interpersonal communication skills necessary to maintain effective relationships with partners, attorneys, clients and staff, and to exhibit a high degree of responsiveness, diplomacy and professionalism in these interactions.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as operating instructions, procedure manuals, general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, governmental regulations, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Ability to work overtime when needed. Work occasionally requires more than 40 hours per week to perform the essential duties of the position. Accurately manage and report all time worked on projects.

The expected annual salary for this position ranges from $70,000 - 100,000. The salary offered will be determined by a wide range of factors including but not limited to experience level, education/training, and relevant skills.