Job Description
Job DescriptionDirect Counsel is seeking a Patent Agent or Patent Advisor (MedTech) to join a leading national law firm’s patent counseling and prosecution practice. This position is available in Palo Alto or San Diego.About the Role
The firm is looking for a highly motivated candidate with substantive industry experience, at least one year of law firm experience, and a degree in materials, chemical, mechanical, or biomedical engineering (or a related field). The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical foundation and broad exposure to disciplines within chemical engineering and materials science, supporting a robust medtech-focused IP practice.
Key responsibilities include:
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Conducting prior art database searches for patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses
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Reviewing and analyzing technical literature, patents, and scientific documents
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Drafting patent applications and responses to USPTO office actions
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Assisting attorneys with patent prosecution, counseling, and litigation support
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Collaborating with attorneys on a range of patent matters involving complex technologies
Qualifications
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Degree in materials, chemical, mechanical, or biomedical engineering (or related field)
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Broad scientific knowledge in mechanical and/or biomedical engineering
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Advanced degree preferred
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At least one year of experience in a law firm environment
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Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
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Must be a registered U.S. patent agent or eligible for the USPTO registration exam
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Ability to take initiative, learn quickly, and work effectively in a team setting
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Law school tuition assistance available for patent agent candidates
Compensation & Benefits
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Expected annual salary: $125,000–$228,000
(Final compensation dependent on location, experience, and skillset.) -
Full range of elective benefits including medical, dental, vision, HSA/FSA options, commuter benefits, life insurance, long-term care coverage, backup care, and parental support resources
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Firm-paid life insurance, AD&D, LTD, short-term medical benefits
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Generous parental leave and fertility benefits
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Vacation accrual at four weeks per year, sick time at two weeks per year, and 10 paid holidays annually