Staff Attorney - Trademark

Job Responsibilities

• Manage domestic and international trademark prosecution and global portfolio administration, including clearance strategy, filings, office actions, renewals, maintenance, and assignments
• Advise business stakeholders on trademark clearance, brand selection, product naming, marketing initiatives, and digital use, supporting high-volume and enterprise-wide branding programs
• Develop and implement cost-effective global trademark strategies in coordination with outside counsel, including portfolio optimization, risk assessment, and strategic filing and maintenance decisions
• Draft, review, and negotiate trademark licenses, coexistence and consent agreements, promotional and sponsorship agreements, and other brand-related transactions, ensuring enforceable rights and quality control compliance
• Lead and support trademark enforcement matters, including cease-and-desist actions, oppositions, cancellations, UDRP proceedings, online marketplace enforcement, and anti-counterfeiting initiatives
• Serve as a trusted legal advisor to cross-functional teams (marketing, product, licensing, digital), providing practical, business-focused trademark guidance and education
• Support departmental initiatives related to portfolio strategy, process improvement, cost management, and best-practice development, while staying current on trademark law developments and emerging risks

Basic Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
• Active bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction (Michigan preferred or eligibility for in-house registration)
• 8–10 years of substantive trademark experience, including:
• Trademark prosecution and portfolio management
• Trademark clearance and availability opinions
• Licensing and transactional trademark work
• Trademark enforcement and dispute management
• Experience managing matters independently and working with international outside counsel
• Strong legal writing, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Preferred Qualifications

• In-house or law firm experience handling IP transactional and/or litigation matters
• Experience in automotive, consumer products, technology, or similarly brand-driven industries
• Familiarity with global trademark enforcement and online anti-counterfeiting programs
• Experience supporting licensing, merchandising, or sponsorship programs