Patent Associate (Denver, CO; Palo Alto, CA; Salt Lake City, UT; Seattle, WA) (#1045)

About the role

The Patent Group at Dorsey is seeking an associate with two to four years of experience in patent prosecution, particularly in electrical engineering, computer science, physics, or related fields. This role involves handling patent prosecution matters from drafting applications to all phases of domestic and foreign patent prosecution. Additionally, you will counsel clients on patent strategy and gain exposure to conducting searches and preparing opinions.

Responsibilities

• Manage an active docket of patent prosecution matters
• Counsel clients on patent strategy
• Conduct patentability, invalidity, and non-infringement opinions
• Support litigation and transactional practices

Requirements

• USPTO and Colorado, California, Utah, or Washington bar admission or ability to obtain admission
• Two to four years of patent attorney experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or related field
• Strong academic performance and writing ability

Qualifications

• Denver: Salary range $205,000 - $245,000
• Seattle: Salary range $205,000 - $255,000
• California: Salary range $205,000 - $300,000

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Flexible time off
• Wellbeing programs and activities
• Transportation assistance
• Employee assistance program

Skills

• Superb legal knowledge and skills
• Practical wisdom and deep understanding of business and industry
• Experience in banking & financial institutions, development & infrastructure, energy & natural resources, food, beverage & agribusiness, healthcare, and technology

Pay and Schedule

Salary ranges vary based on experience and are determined by a variety of factors including depth of experience in the practice area. There is an option for a lower billable-hours track with a proportional reduction in salary. Associates are eligible to participate in Dorsey's associate bonus program, subject to the program's conditions and restrictions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical insurance with coverage for infertility, gender-affirming care, behavioral health, and access to virtual providers
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Basic and optional life insurance
• Short and long-term disability
• Flexible time off
• Up to 15 weeks of paid parental leave with up to an additional 6-8 weeks of paid short-term disability for attorneys who give birth
• Paid holidays
• Adoption assistance
• Healthcare, dependent care, and transportation pre-tax reimbursement accounts
• Back-up child and elder care program
• Education and college advising program
• Virtual tutoring
• Wellbeing programs and activities
• Mass transit program (certain offices)
• Travel assistance program
• 24/7 employee assistance program with access to five confidential visits with a licensed counselor at no cost

How to Apply

To apply, visit Dorsey's careers page. Applications are accepted until September 30, 2026, or until the position is filled. Please note that Dorsey does not accept search firm submissions for this opening.