IP Docketing Specialist

About Us

Blank Rome is an Am Law 100 firm with 16 offices and 800 attorneys who provide comprehensive legal and advocacy services to clients operating in the United States and around the world. Our professionals have built a reputation for their leading knowledge and experience across a spectrum of industries and are recognized for their commitment to pro bono work in their communities. Since our inception in 1946, Blank Rome's culture has been dedicated to providing top-level service to all of our clients and has been rooted in the strength of our diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Job Overview

The IP Docketing Specialist provides comprehensive IP docketing services to the firm, including foreign and domestic patent and trademark docketing through independent date calculation and proficient use of the firm's IP Docketing application. The IP Docketing Specialist facilitates firm compliance with docketing policies and protocols to minimize the risk of missed deadlines. This role has a remote working arrangement. Potential candidates must reside within in one of the 10 states in which we have a physical office. In this role, you will report to the IP Docketing Supervisor.

Essential Functions

• Open new matters and input records into IP Docketing system, FoundationIP, for both foreign and domestic patent, trademark, and copyright cases.
• Review all correspondence pertaining to IP prosecution and enter all due dates contained in incoming correspondence, including faxes and emails, into the docketing system.
• Coordinate with attorneys/staff to ensure that all deadlines are met.
• Ensure the overall accuracy and completeness of docketing due dates within the requirements set by the Code of Federal Regulations for Patents, Trademarks and Copyrights.
• Generate attorney and client reports as requested using docketing system.
• Process filings, including clearing due dates and actions from docketing system.
• Provide timely docket reports and clear docket on a daily basis.
• Keep current with USPTO, PCT, Madrid Protocol and Foreign IP rules and practices.
• Process requests to transfer cases in and out of the firm, including updating docketing system.
• Manage and work with IP Docketing team and/or other teams within the firm to complete special projects as requested.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned.
• Work additional hours as needed to fulfill job requirements.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in IP Docketing required.
• Associate degree preferred.
• Experience with IP Docketing system, FoundationIP is a plus.
• Experience in a legal environment or professional services required.
• Working knowledge of both foreign and domestic patent and trademark prosecution rules.
• Experience with document management software used by law firms, iManage is a plus.
• Experience with ServiceNow is a plus.

Skills

• Strong communication skills (verbal and written) with the ability to develop positive working relationships (in-person and virtually).
• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with effective organizational skills.
• Proven problem solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Unquestioned integrity and professionalism.
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
• Proficient in researching and retrieving patent and trademark information utilizing legal rule (i.e. MPEP, TMEP, etc.) the United States Patent and Trademark Office website, Foreign Patent and Trademark websites, etc.
• Proficient in web-based conference call/web-sharing applications.
• Demonstrates the appropriate level of proficiency, skills, and knowledge of the position as well as a commitment to continuous improvement and development.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to the firm's strategic goals and mission.
• Serves as a role model and promotes a positive work environment that values diversity by inspiring trust, confidence, motivation to succeed, and the firm's core values.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $80,000 - $90,000. Actual salaries will depend on a candidate's geographic location, relevant experience, and skillset. The salary range listed is just one component of Blank Rome's total compensation package for employees. Other monetary rewards include annual discretionary bonuses based on performance and profit-sharing contributions based on eligibility and firm profitability. In addition, Blank Rome provides a comprehensive suite of benefits to promote health and financial security, including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as life, accident, and disability insurance plans. The firm also provides the opportunity to participate in 401(k) retirement benefits, commuter benefits, and well-being programs.