Paralegal (Patent Prosecution)

Job Responsibilities

• Prepare and file U.S. provisional/non-provisional and international patent applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and International Bureau (IB).
• Manage multiple client-specific dockets, maintain a personal docket, and ensure all deadlines are tracked and met.
• Draft and file documents, including Information Disclosure Statements, Office Action responses, Declarations, Assignments, Power of Attorney, and other USPTO communications.
• Cook up and manage international patent filings and prosecution with foreign associates.
• Conduct patent searches and gather prior art references for IDS filings.
• Maintain client’s patent portfolios, including maintaining records, reviewing files, preparing status reports/updates, and communicating with clients.
• Regularly correspond independently with clients, inventors, and patent examiners regarding patent prosecution matters.
• Ensure compliance with USPTO rules, regulations, and firm policies.
• Extract relevant information from official USPTO, PCT, foreign patent office databases, and related incoming correspondence.

Job Requirements

• 4 years of experience as a patent prosecution paralegal in a law firm or corporate IP department.
• Paralegal certification or degree in paralegal studies is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of USPTO procedures, e-filing systems (Patent Center, EFSWeb), and foreign patent filing processes (including PCT filings).
• Proficiency in docketing systems such as CPI, Anaqua, or Foundation IP and legal research tools.
• Exceptional organizational and task prioritization skills, attention to detail, and managing multiple deadlines efficiently while maintaining a high-quality work product.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a team.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other legal software, including applications for patent prosecution and time and billing software.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to consistently focus on details in all aspects of work to identify and resolve potential problems.
• Strong commitment to client service.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Occasional lifting of objects of up to 25 pounds.

Compensation & Benefits

• We offer a competitive salary. The salary range reflects various factors considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to relevant skills, training, experience, education, licensure, and/or certifications, and other job-related factors.
• A reasonable estimate for someone hired into this position is $37.00 - $41.00/hour based on a 40-hour-a-week schedule.
• We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including medical (employer-paid for employees only), dental, vision, life/AD&D, and STD and LTD disability insurance, a health reimbursement account, a health savings account (employer contributions), pet insurance, and a 401k/profit-sharing retirement package.
• We also provide Minnesota Earned Sick and Safe Time, firm-issued equipment, a stipend for the home office, a hybrid working environment (some in-office required), in-office incentives offered such as monthly lunches and other incentives, and discretionary bonuses, and a free on-site gym.
• Additionally, we offer professional development and continuing legal education assistance.