Intellectual Property Legal Intern IV, Fall 2026 (Hybrid)

You don’t see it, but it’s there. Our employees work on the world’s most advanced electronics – from saving emissions in the City of Lights to powering the Mars Rover to protecting the F 35 fighter jet. At Electronic Systems, you’ll be among the brightest minds, working on the aerospace and defense industry’s most difficult problems. Drawing strength from our differences, we’re innovating for the future. Our flexible work environment provides you a chance to change the world without giving up your personal life. We put our customers first – exemplified by our missions: “We Protect Those Who Protect Us®” and “We Innovate For Those Who Move The WorldTM.”

This role will be conducted in a hybrid format, with the employee splitting their time between a BAE Systems site and working remotely. The on-site locations include: 65 Spit Brook Dr, Nashua, NH; 301 Fairfax Dr, #800, Arlington, VA 22203; 10920 Technology Pl, San Diego, CA 92127; 1301 North Street, Endicott, NY 13760; and 825 E. Howard Lane, Austin, TX 78753. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must reside within a reasonable daily commute of our offices and be willing to work on-site 2-3 days per week.

About the role

BAE Systems in the noted locations is accepting applications for a paid Academic internship within our ES Legal function for the Fall semester 2026. Applicants must be patent bar eligible and U.S. Persons. Applicants who have completed classes or comparable training in Patent Law and Patent Prosecution and who have undergraduate degrees in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science/software, and aerospace/aeronautical engineering are preferred—but all patent bar eligible students are welcome to apply.

This fast-paced, dynamic role offers broad exposure to in-house IP work product designed to help transition the intern into a successful IP career. Ideal candidates are motivated self-starters who can work autonomously while collaborating closely with—and receiving support from—the entire IP Team. In addition, the internship may require work relating to corporate law matters.

Responsibilities

• Analyzing and drafting various legal documents, including review of government and commercial contracts, NDAs, and licenses.
• Conducting legal research and preparing legal memos and correspondence.
• Responding to discovery requests and subpoenas.
• Assisting the department attorneys with general matters.
• Assisting the IP Department with patent and trademark matters, including:
  • Preparing office action responses and appeals.
  • Drafting patent applications.
  • Reviewing patent application drafts.
  • Handling IDS preparation.
  • Conducting IP searches (including patent and trademark searches).
  • Researching IP questions.
  • Providing litigation/M&A support.
• Assisting the Ethics Office with general and compliance matters.

Requirements

• Completed at least second year of law school.
• Ability to analyze, write memos, and perform research on legal topics.
• Understand Intellectual Property basics and understanding of patent preparation and prosecution.

Qualifications

• Completion of advanced courses in Intellectual Property.
• Knowledge and experience with Patent Preparation and Prosecution.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and results-oriented.
• Strong verbal and written communications skills.
• Excellent organization skills.
• Ability to comfortably interact with others as well as all levels of management.
• Patent Bar eligibility.
• Prior law firm experience.

Pay

Full-Time Salary Range: $51,889 - $70,033. Individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

Temporary employees generally are not eligible for BAE Systems benefits but can elect to participate in the 401(k) savings plan. Temporary employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for medical benefits, the employee assistance program, and business travel accident insurance.