Patent Specialist (Walnut Creek, San Francisco, Silicon Valley)

Patent Specialist (Walnut Creek, San Francisco, Silicon Valley)

Kilpatrick Townsend, a large international law firm, is seeking a Patent Specialist (IP Legal Assistant) for our Intellectual Property Department in our Walnut Creek, San Francisco or Silicon Valley office. This position will be part of our team of attorneys, paralegals and support staff providing a high level of service to both internal and external clients. At Kilpatrick Townsend, we are one team where each person plays an integral role in serving the needs of our clients. The firm has a strong dedication to its employees, values, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and commitment to the community.

Under the supervision of Attorneys and the Office Administrator, this Patent Specialist will provide support for all types of patent prosecution related actions.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

* Assist with all procedural aspects of patent prosecution including preparing shells for, and filing applications, responses, IDSs, transmittal documents, etc.; collaborate with attorneys and paralegals as needed.
* Assist in drafting correspondence to clients regarding the status of applications and patents.
* Review and manage files and docket for deadlines, understand docket deadlines and action needed on each file; prepare shell prosecution documents.
* Electronic filing with U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
* Ability to file PCT applications, including familiarity with WIPO system.
* Able to complete National Phase filings.
* Ability to correspond with Foreign Associates regarding various aspects of prosecution.
* Act as a point of contact for the clients, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information.
* Assist with client invoice review, edits, and finalization.
* Provide back-up support to team and project assistance as needed.
* Maintain accurate daily time records for client billing purposes.
* Other tasks as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS REQUIRED:

* Minimum two years of patent prosecution experience.
* Proficiency with Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, timekeeping software, Adobe Acrobat.
* Familiarity with USPTO procedures, rules and requirements; knowledge of U.S. and PCT patent rules and procedures.
* Understand lifecycle of patent applications from pre-filing stages, to prosecution, onto issuance.
* Excellent client service skills:
* Possess effective written and oral communication skills
* Display a strong client service orientation with a positive attitude
* Strong sense of accountability, taking ownership over projects and responsibilities and resolving issues proactively
* Ability to assess information, anticipate issues and outcomes, and make effective decisions
* Excellent organizational skills:
* Must be a good planner and detail-oriented
* Ability to manage a high-volume of work in fast-paced environment, and work well under pressure
* Ability to meet deadlines, organize and prioritize assignments, and handle multiple projects simultaneously
* Ability to work independently and take initiative to move projects to completion
* Minimum of two years of U.S. and Foreign patent prosecution experience working in a law firm or in-house legal environment in a legal assistant role or similar.
* Respectful, reliable and dependable team player; ability to work productively with firm personnel at all levels and with minimal supervision.
* Must be flexible with work hours and overtime as needed.

Preferred Experience:

* Paralegal certificate from ABA approved program.
* Familiarity with iManage and FoundationIP a plus.

This is a full-time, regular position with generous benefits. Selected applicants will be contacted. Kilpatrick Townsend is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For more information about our firm, please visit our website at www.kilpatricktownsend.com.

Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP is committed to equal employment opportunity for all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex or gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.