IP Specialist

Summary The IP Specialist will collaborate with our prosecution practice group to provide administrative and patent prosecution support, including filing, docketing, and communication with clients. Responsibilities Prepare and finalize all documents needed for filing provisional, non‑provisional, and PCT applications. Prepare formal documents (assignment, declaration, power of attorney), obtain appropriate signatures, and follow up as necessary. Record assignments with the US Patent Office and file declaration and power of attorney documents. Assist in drafting correspondence to clients regarding status of applications and patents, including reporting filing receipts, publication notices, and forwarding patent certificates. Prepare and file responses to corrected application papers, requests for corrected filing receipts, updates to applicants and inventors, and restriction requirements with preliminary amendments. Prepare office action response shells and letters to clients reporting office actions along with pending claim sets. Prepare and file responses to office actions, including extensions of time, terminal disclaimers, declarations, exhibits, etc. Review and manage the docket for U.S. and foreign deadlines, understanding required actions on each file. Review files and prepare information disclosure statements and accompanying documents. Contact outside vendors to follow up on drawings, translations, certified copies, and other items needed for filing with the Patent and Trademark Office. Retrieve information from the USPTO website and conduct internet research. Provide overall support for all aspects of portfolio management. Stay current and compliant with MPEP and CFR rules, as well as administrative changes at the USPTO. Perform conflict checks and open new matter numbers for clients. Prepare new client engagement letters and conflict waiver letters. Assist attorneys with time entries (Webview), expense reports, and invoice approvals. Assist attorneys with other administrative tasks or special projects as needed. Perform other duties as assigned. Desired Skills Experience filing with the USPTO and knowledge of USPTO rules and practices, including docketing and public/private PAIR. Self‑starter with excellent communication, writing, and organizational skills, capable of keeping attorneys and patent agents on track. Proven administrative abilities and sound judgment, with the ability to handle multiple time‑sensitive tasks in a fast‑paced environment. Punctuality and the ability to work independently as well as be a team player. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Knowledge of law firm billing programs (Webview) and patent docketing software (OP Solutions Pattsy) is helpful. Minimum Education High School Diploma. Minimum Years of Experience 3 years of office/administrative experience in a professional services and/or legal industry. Patent prosecution experience highly preferred. Essential Job Expectations Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties. Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence efficiently. Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product. Meet deadlines and perform duties as required. Foster positive work relationships. Comply with all firm policies and practices. Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, including working at a computer for extended periods, participating in virtual calls, and attending meetings as needed. Work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast‑paced environment. Physical Demands Primarily sedentary work involving sitting most of the time, with occasional lifting or moving of light objects up to 10 pounds. Work Environment Hybrid arrangement of remote and in‑office work, based on coordination with the hiring manager or supervisor and subject to future modifications. Disclaimer This job description provides a concise statement of the work elements and is not intended to describe all tasks performed by every individual in this classification. It does not serve as the sole criteria for personnel decisions and actions and may be modified at the firm’s discretion. Accommodation Reasonable accommodations may be made upon request to permit individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the position or participate in the selection process. Compensation Hourly wage range: $45.32 - $62.79, dependent on geographic location and qualifications. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) Equal Employment Opportunity Statement DLA Piper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. #J-18808-Ljbffr DLA Piper LLP (US)