Patent Prosecutor; Mechanical Engineer

Our client, a prestigious law firm in Minneapolis, MN, is seeking a talented Patent prosecutor with a background in Mechanical Engineering.

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications for complex mechanical and electro-mechanical systems.
• Conduct freedom-to-operate and prior art searches.
• Conduct patentability, validity, and infringement analyses and develop associated legal opinions.
• Advise clients on IP strategy, including patent portfolio development and risk assessment.
• Work collaboratively with inventors, engineers, and other legal team members to understand technical innovations and translate them into strong patent applications.
• Independently manage a sophisticated patent docket.
• Perform other client and administrative duties.

• Thorough understanding of intellectual property law with an emphasis on patent preparation and prosecution.
• Strong technical understanding of mechanical systems, manufacturing processes, and related innovations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills with a proven ability to manage and meet deadlines for multiple projects at the same time.
• Demonstrated attention to detail.
• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of foreign patent prosecution procedures preferred.
• Experience in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, medical devices, robotics, agriculture, building systems and/or consumer products preferred.

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Admitted to practice law in Minnesota (Certificate of Good Standing required).
• Admitted to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Bachelor of science in mechanical engineering or a similar degree from an accredited college or university.
• 2 years of experience in patent prosecution in a law firm or corporate legal department.
• 2 years of experience in a mechanical engineering role.

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Occasional lifting of objects up to 25 pounds.