Sr. Patent Prosecution Associate (Pasadena)

Sr. Patent Prosecution AssociatePosition OverviewWe are seeking a Sr. Patent Prosecution Associate to lead and manage end-to-end patent prosecution matters for sophisticated clients across a range of technologies. The role focuses on drafting and prosecuting U.S. and international patent applications, handling appeals and post-grant proceedings, coordinating with clients and outside counsel, and providing strategic advice on enforcement, licensing, and litigation support. The ideal candidate combines deep technical understanding with demonstrated experience before the USPTO and strong written and oral advocacy skills.Key ResponsibilitiesLead preparation, drafting and filing of U.S. and international patent applications, including provisional, utility, and PCT filings.Prepare and prosecute patent applications before the USPTO: respond to office actions, craft persuasive claim amendments and arguments, and manage global prosecution strategy.Represent clients in examiner interviews and hearings; prepare interview summaries and follow-up prosecution steps.Manage and participate in post-grant proceedings and IPRs, preparing petitions, responses, and coordinating testimony and expert support.Provide litigation support and coordination with litigation teams, including claim construction, prior art analysis, and preparation of infringement/validity positions.Handle appeals and briefing practice before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) and other forums; prepare appeal briefs and related filings.Advise clients on licensing, freedom-to-operate, and patent portfolio strategy; assist with technology transfer and commercialization due diligence.Work closely with clients and cross-functional teams to deliver clear, practical legal advice, timelines, and cost estimates; maintain excellent client communication and relationships.Mentor and supervise junior associates, paralegals, and support staff; review work product for quality and consistency.Maintain prosecution docketing, filing calendars, and ensure compliance with USPTO rules and deadlines; implement best practices to improve efficiency and quality.QualificationsJuris Doctor (JD) or technical degree (BS/MS/PhD) in electrical engineering, computer science, biotechnology, chemistry, or related field; combination of legal and technical training preferred.Active registration to practice before the USPTO (Patent Bar) as a registered patent attorney or agent; admission to a state bar preferred for attorney applicants.6+ years of hands-on patent prosecution experience, including drafting and prosecuting U.S. utility applications and foreign filings.Demonstrated experience with IPRs, PTAB practice, appeals, and handling complex office actions.Experience supporting patent litigation and licensing matters, including coordinating with litigation teams and preparing technical/legal analyses.Proven ability to conduct effective examiner interviews and to advocate successfully before the USPTO.Excellent legal writing, claim drafting, and oral communication skills; strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.Track record of building and managing patent prosecution strategies and client relationships for diverse portfolios.Ability to mentor junior attorneys and staff and oversee high-quality work product under tight deadlines.Familiarity with USPTO procedures, electronic filing systems, docketing tools, and patent databases; strong attention to detail and organizational skills.BenefitsHealth, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), PTO, CLE support