Patent Agent

About the role

As the global leader in loading dock and door equipment, Rite-Hite designs and delivers solutions that keep customers safe, secure, and productive. In this role, you will support the legal department’s intellectual property function, with a focus on growing and protecting the company’s innovation through patents and designs.

Responsibilities

• Utilize extensive patent expertise to implement and execute patent prosecution strategies focused on strengthening claims that align with specific business goals and potential enforcement scenarios.
• Support and drive IP strategy, collaborating with inventors, engineers, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment with business goals.
• Monitor, analyze, and identify opportunities leveraging patent trends and emerging complex technology trends in key areas relevant to the business.
• Conduct ideation and patent harvesting activities to identify invention disclosures and innovation opportunities that support the business strategy.
• Conduct and/or direct patent search and analysis efforts related to freedom-to-operate, patentability, partnerships, and competitive intelligence.
• Partner with outside counsel in preparing and prosecuting patent applications in the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions, with a focus on mechanical, automation, controls, and related technologies.
• Support training and awareness initiatives to enhance innovation and patent culture across the company.
• Support IP enforcement matters, including providing technical expertise and patent analysis.
• Provide cross-functional support in areas involving intercompany agreements, licensing, contracts, and ownership.

Requirements

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or science discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of patent experience in a corporate legal department or IP law firm preferred.
• Expert knowledge of U.S. and international patent filing, prosecution, and maintenance requirements.
• Strong experience with patent searching, drafting, and prosecution.
• Technical versatility and ability to work across a wide range of technologies.
• Detail-oriented and analytical with excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively and proactively partner with legal, technical, and business teams.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with competitive monitoring a plus.
• Manufacturing or engineering industry experience a plus.

Benefits

• Health & Well-being: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life and disability insurance. A robust well-being program with an opportunity to receive an extra day off.
• Financial Security: A strong retirement savings program with 401(k), company match, and profit sharing.
• Time for You: Paid holidays, vacation time, and personal/sick days each year.