Patent Agent / Technical Specialist

Patent Agent / Technical Specialist Location: Pittsburgh, PA Direct counsel is seeking a Patent Agent / Technical Specialist with 3+ years of patent prosecution experience to join a well-established national lawfirm . This role involves supporting the firm's legal team on a wide variety of technical innovations, working with clients from start-ups to major corporations, and contributing to intellectual property strategy and patent portfolio management. Hybrid work options are available for qualified candidates. Responsibilities Draft comprehensive and accurate patent applications to protect client inventions. Manage patent prosecution processes, including responding to office actions and obtaining patent allowances. Conduct prior art searches, assess patentability, and advise clients on patent strategy. Review invention disclosures and support freedom-to-operate analyses and IP due diligence. Develop strategies to address challenges in patent law, including subject matter eligibility issues. Collaborate with clients to align IP strategies with business objectives. Participate in team training and maintain high-quality work while meeting deadlines. Qualifications 3+ years of hands-on experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications. Bachelor's or advanced degree in a life sciences discipline (molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, immunology, or related field). Active registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in good standing. Expertise in CRISPR, antibody therapeutics, cell and gene therapy, recombinant DNA, or bioinformatics is highly desirable. Strong writing, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment. This position offers meaningful professional growth within a national law firm platform , providing exposure to sophisticated patent prosecution and IP strategy matters.