Intellectual Property Associate

Position Overview: We are seeking an Intellectual Property Associate with a strong background in mechanical engineering to support a full range of IP matters. The ideal candidate will use their technical training and legal acumen to assist with patent preparation and prosecution, prior art searching, infringement and validity analysis, and IP due diligence. This role combines technical problem-solving with legal drafting and client communication to help protect and maximize the value of client innovations.

Key Responsibilities: Draft, file and prosecute patent applications, with emphasis on mechanical engineering inventions. Support patent prosecution activities before the USPTO and international patent offices (PCT/EPO/WIPO filings).Conduct prior art searching and prepare patentability, novelty and inventive step analyses. Perform infringement and validity/invalidity analyses and prepare freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinions. Assist with patent portfolio management, docketing coordination and prosecution management. Support IP due diligence for transactions, licensing and technology transfer projects. Prepare and manage claim construction, claim amendments and prosecution strategy. Assist with patent litigation support, including document review, prior art collection and preparation of invalidity/validity opinions.

Qualifications: Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering (required); advanced technical degree or JD preferred. Demonstrated technical experience in mechanical engineering and familiarity with mechanical design concepts and terminology. Prior experience or coursework supporting patent drafting, prosecution, or patent searching preferred. Familiarity with USPTO practice and patent prosecution procedures; registration to practice before the USPTO is a plus. Experience or exposure to IP litigation support, prosecution appeals and docketing/prosecution management. Experience supporting licensing, technology transfer and IP transactional work preferred.