Associate Software/EE Patent Prosecution

About the role

Patterson + Sheridan, LLP is seeking an experienced Associate to support its intellectual property practice, with a focus on software and electronics. This is a full-time, exempt position with flexibility depending on the candidate's location and experience. The ideal candidate will hold a B.S. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Software Engineering, with 5+ years of strong patent prosecution experience.

Technical focus areas

• Low-level software applications, including work relating to operating systems, computer networks, storage systems, or other computer related fields
• Electro-mechanical medical devices
• Sensors, such as implantable sensors
• Imaging and visualization systems
• Optics
• Robotics and complex mechanical or electromechanical systems
• Cybersecurity
• Wireless communications
• Batteries and other electric vehicle applications

Responsibilities

• Drafting and prosecuting patent applications relating to software
• Managing patent portfolios
• Developing prosecution strategy in close collaboration with partners and clients
• Working directly with inventors, in-house counsel, and business stakeholders
• Advising on patentability, claim strategy, and portfolio development
• Supporting client needs across fast-moving and evolving technology sectors
• Assisting with freedom-to-operate and landscape studies
• Assisting with infringement and invalidity opinions

Why this opportunity stands out

• Direct impact with a high-profile client: immediate, hands-on work with a cornerstone client on sophisticated, cutting-edge matters
• Meaningful client contact: opportunity to directly interface with the client, build trusted relationships, and help manage portfolios
• Build, not just bill: a chance to play an instrumental role in shaping and expanding an important practice area
• Autonomy and ownership: significant responsibility and independence, with room to take ownership of matters and client workflows
• Accelerated path to advancement: close partner access and a lean team structure that supports faster professional growth and long-term leadership opportunities
• Mentorship opportunities: ability over time to help guide and mentor more junior associates as the practice continues to grow

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Admission to at least one state bar and in good standing
• Registration before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office preferred, or eligibility to sit for the patent bar depending on technical background
• Meaningful patent prosecution experience, ideally with software, computer science, or related technologies
• Strong writing, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with partners and clients
• Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and excellent project-management skills