IP Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Established in 1995, Mueting Raasch Group (MRG) is a dynamic intellectual property law firm dedicated to helping innovators protect their ideas through patent and trademark
prosecution.

We are seeking an experienced IP Operations Manager to lead and support our patent prosecution paralegal and docketing functions. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who combines strong patent prosecution experience with an interest in improving how work gets done.

The successful candidate will manage day-to-day workloads, support and develop team members, improve processes, and help the firm effectively use automation, artificial intelligence, technology tools, and outside service providers.

The role also requires a willingness to remain actively involved in patent prosecution support and docketing work when needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities to streamline repetitive and administrative work through automation, artificial intelligence, software tools, and outside vendors.
• Help evaluate, implement, and manage technology solutions that improve patent prosecution operations.
• Coordinate and oversee work performed by outside or offshore service providers, as appropriate.
• Onboard and train new paralegal and docketing staff on patent and trademark prosecution workflows, firm procedures, and best practices.
• Promote cross-training and consistent practices across the paralegal and docketing teams.
• Work closely with attorneys, patent agents, and firm leadership to address staffing, workflow, and service needs.
• Develop and improve procedures, workflows, checklists, and quality-control processes.
• Lead, support, and develop patent prosecution paralegal and docketing personnel.
• Manage and balance workloads to help ensure deadlines are met accurately and efficiently.
• Perform day-to-day docketing and patent prosecution paralegal work as needed to support the team and meet client and firm needs.

Required Skills & Competencies

• 5+ years of experience in patent prosecution paralegal work, IP docketing, or IP operations at a law firm or corporate legal department.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Paralegal certificate or equivalent experience required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Experience with IP docketing software (such as CPI, Foundation IP, Anaqua, or AppColl).
• Experience with document management systems (such as NetDocuments or iManage).
• Strong working knowledge of U.S., PCT, and foreign patent prosecution procedures and deadlines.
• Prior supervisory, team-lead, or management experience in a law firm or corporate legal department.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage deadline-sensitive work.
• Experience developing or improving workflows and procedures.
• Comfort with technology and an interest in using automation and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and service.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with attorneys, patent agents, staff, vendors, and firm leadership.
• A collaborative, practical, and hands-on approach to leadership.
• Team-oriented, with the ability to work independently.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Fast-paced legal environment with strict deadlines.
• Hybrid schedule with at least 3 days in the office per week.
• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer.
• Ability to review detailed documentation for extended periods.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.

Why This Role

This position offers an opportunity to do more than manage an existing function. The IP Operations Manager will play an important role in shaping how the firm delivers patent prosecution support, including how work is staffed, standardized, automated, and supported by technology and outside resources.

We are looking for someone who values accuracy and service, enjoys developing people and improving processes, and is interested in helping build a more efficient and scalable patent prosecution operation.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including medical (employer-paid premiums for employee-only coverage), dental, vision, life/AD&D, short- and long-term disability, a health reimbursement account, a health savings account with employer contributions, pet insurance, and a 401(k)/profit-sharing retirement plan. We also provide Minnesota Earned Sick and Safe Time, PTO/holidays, firm-issued equipment, a home office stipend, discretionary bonuses, in-office perks such as monthly lunches, and a free on-site gym.

The pay range for this position is $95,000–$130,000 annually. Final compensation will depend on relevant skills, training, experience, education, licensure, certifications, and other job-related factors. To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, and salary expectations to MRG Careers.

Mueting Raasch Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.