IP Specialist - Houston

Job Description

Job Title: Intellectual Property Specialist
Practice Group: Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Location: Open to multiple office locations; preference for Atlanta, Houston, New York City, or Washington, DC

Direct Counsel represents an Am Law 100 firm seeking an experienced Intellectual Property Specialist to support its Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences Practice Group. This role supports high-volume patent prosecution portfolios and works closely with attorneys, clients, and internal teams to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant patent filings in the United States and internationally.

• Manage patent prosecution dockets and workflows for assigned client portfolios
• Coordinate invention harvesting meetings and patent prosecution tasks with attorneys and clients
• Prepare and distribute reporting letters related to notices issued by the USPTO and foreign patent offices
• Draft patent prosecution templates and formalities and electronically file with the USPTO
• Compile, upload, and electronically file U.S. patent applications
• Review filed and issued patent communications to identify errors or required corrections
• Review issued patents for accuracy, confirm patent expiration dates, and prepare certificates of correction when necessary
• Prepare, monitor, and update Information Disclosure Statement (IDS) charts and client portfolio spreadsheets
• Maintain primary and secondary patent dockets and track critical deadlines
• Perform additional duties as assigned

• 5+ years of intellectual property experience supporting high-volume hard science portfolios
• Strong knowledge of USPTO, PCT, and international patent rules and procedures
• Proficiency with USPTO electronic filing systems and ePCT
• Demonstrated experience managing IP dockets and deadlines
• Docketing software experience required; CPi experience preferred
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe

The budgeted salary range for this position is $85,000–$115,000
, based on experience and qualifications.

The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Paid time off and sick leave
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life, AD&D, identity theft, short- and long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan