Patent Prosecutor (Mechanical Engineer)
Minneapolis MN
Legal Services
Job Responsibilities
· 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.
Education and Experience
· 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.
Physical Requirements
· Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
· Occasional lifting of objects up to 25 pounds.