Once filed, the application is referred to as a pending patent application. Examiners at the USPTO review the pending application and compare the claims against known technology described in documents called "prior art." If the patent application contains an invention that is new and non-obvious in view of the prior art, a patent is granted. If not, a rejection is issued citing one or more documents of prior art that may describe the invention. The Senior Patent Engineer then studies the prior art and develops technical and legal arguments showing that the references do not describe the invention.

As a Senior Patent Engineer, you will research technologies and inventions to determine if preexisting patents may prevent a patent from being issued or from providing the desired level of protection. You will prepare and draft portions of the patent application for review by the supervising attorney and the client, with an eye toward anticipating any questions or objections the reviewer at the U.S. or foreign patent office may have.  A Senior Patent Engineer may also communicate with the U.S. patent office and with persons handling foreign patent applications with regard to various issues arising in a patent application, including responding to a rejected application.

Additionally, you will be responsible for the following duties:

• Analyze invention disclosures and other technical documents to identify novel aspects of particular technologies.
• Conduct and interpret prior art searches.
• Assist in the preparation, drafting, filing, and prosecution of U.S. and foreign patent applications.
• Support activities involving technology-based companies.
• Determine the needs of end users of technical documentation.
• Study product samples and talk with product designers and developers.
• Revise documents as new issues arise.
• Mentor junior patent engineer

Desired Qualifications

Education:
Master’s degree; equivalent foreign education acceptable in the following academic disciplines: Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering; Masters in Intellectual Property if B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering AND 1 year of post-degree progressive experience is required

OR

Bachelor’s degree; equivalent foreign education acceptable in the following academic disciplines: Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering AND 3 years of post-degree progressive experience.

Minimum Qualifications:
A working knowledge of databases, machine learning, data warehousing, object-oriented programming; an understanding of wireless communications, embedded systems, hardware  design/layout, or semiconductor manufacturing. Experience or knowledge through academic coursework in drafting technical specifications, research papers, or whitepapers. English fluency and capability to expend 80% of workweek drafting technical documents. Ability to work evenings or weekends, if necessary. Must have prepared 20 patent applications to the patent office. Applicant will undergo writing test evaluating patent drafting capability and submit writing sample.

Salary will be dependent on qualifications and experience. Full benefits, including medical insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, and 401K.

Contact
To apply for this position, please send your cover letter, resume, a writing sample, law school transcript, and undergrad and graduate school (if applicable) transcripts to careers@patentlawworks.net.

Additional Info
Employer Type: Law Firm
Job Location: Salt Lake City, Utah