Senior Patent Specialist

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. D‑Wave (NYSE: QBTS) is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate‑model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today.

D‑Wave is seeking a Senior Patent Specialist to join our Intellectual Property (IP) department. The Senior Patent Specialist is an experienced, collaborative professional who works independently and with sound judgement to identify key innovations and apply best practices to preparing and prosecuting patent applications and supporting daily IP processes. This role serves as a trusted resource to inventors and cross‑functional partners, works closely with external IP counsel, and contributes meaningfully to the strength and direction of the company’s IP portfolio and strategy.

• Draft and prosecute patents across a range of technical disciplines, exercising judgment in strategy and execution
• Develop a deep understanding of the company’s evolving technology and identify valuable, protectable innovations through collaboration with inventors
• Build strong, trusted relationships with the IP team, technical teams and other stakeholders to support effective cross‑functional collaboration
• Manage and support a portion of the company’s IP portfolio, including identifying risks, opportunities, and areas for improvement
• Educate and advise non‑IP colleagues on IP best practices, processes, and considerations
• Manage a substantial and varied workload, ensuring timely, high‑quality execution aligned with team and business priorities
• Proactively identify process improvements within IP workflows and contribute ideas to improve efficiency and effectiveness

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in software, physics, math, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field
• 4+ years of experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications before a patent office
• Registration as a Canadian patent agent or equivalent qualifications is an asset
• International patent prosecution experience is an asset
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain IP concepts to technical and non‑technical audiences
• Proven ability to build and maintain productive cross‑departmental relationships
• Strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage priorities, deadlines, and evolving requirements
• Curiosity, a growth mindset, and a genuine interest in innovative technology and IP strategy

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

We believe providing D‑Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team.

During the interview process, your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture). The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D‑Wave.

It is D‑Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.

88, CAD per year (Burnaby)

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Legal

IT Services and IT Consulting

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