Position Overview:
The Patent Executive (Entry-Level) will have up to 3 years of experience in the Intellectual Property (IP) industry. The role involves assisting in patent-related tasks such as conducting patent searches, drafting specifications, handling patent filings, and managing communications with clients, associates, and IP offices. The individual will also contribute to writing articles, attending networking events, and supporting business development activities.
Role Purpose:
- Provide support and basic consultancy services on patent-related matters.
- Assist in preparing patent specifications, reports, and other related documentation.
- Help manage the prosecution of patent applications, ensuring timely responses to office actions.
- Communicate with clients, associates, and IP offices on procedural matters.
- Contribute to the firm's thought leadership by writing articles and attending events.
Key Responsibilities:
- Patent Searches & Analyses: Assist in conducting patent searches for novelty, freedom-to-operate, and infringement analyses. Work with senior team members to interpret and analyze search results to provide basic recommendations to clients.
- Patent Specification Drafting: Assist in drafting and preparing patent specifications for filing. Ensure all relevant forms and documentation are accurately prepared and submitted within deadlines.
- Patent Prosecution Support: Support the management of patent applications by preparing responses to office actions and substantive examination reports. Assist in handling amendments to applications as directed by senior team members.
- Client Communication: Communicate with clients on basic procedural aspects, such as necessary documentation, fees, and timelines. Assist in maintaining clear and timely communication regarding the status of applications.
- Docketing & Deadline Management: Help maintain client records and docketing systems, ensuring all correspondence, documents, and reminders are tracked and managed ahead of deadlines. Ensure that filing is done accurately and in a timely manner.
- Invoicing & Filing Management: Assist in issuing invoices within specified timelines and ensure that all necessary fees are prepared for filing. Support follow-up processes to ensure payments and filings are completed.
- Knowledge Development & Writing: Write basic articles on patent-related topics and support the firm’s knowledge-sharing initiatives. Assist in the preparation of presentations or talks under the guidance of senior executives.
- Networking & Business Development Support: Attend relevant networking events and conferences to build relationships within the IP industry. Support business development efforts by promoting the firm's services through engagement and outreach.
Qualifications:
Education: Degree in Engineering, Science, or a related technical field, with good academic performance from reputable universities.
Experience: Up to 3 years of experience in the Intellectual Property field, specifically in patent-related work. Experience in conducting basic patent searches, drafting, or filing patent applications is preferred.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong attention to detail and good organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Basic understanding of patent law and procedures, with a willingness to learn and develop expertise.
- Good analytical skills to assist in patent searches and reporting.
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
- Ability to work under supervision and collaborate with senior team members.
- Strong work ethic, with a proactive and eager approach to learning.
Preferred Attributes:
- Familiarity with IP docketing systems or patent filing software.
- A positive attitude, with a willingness to develop in the IP field.
- Fun to work with, team-oriented, and open to learning from more experienced colleagues.
