Associate / Attorney - IP Patent

IP Patent Associate – Engineering / Computer Science / Related Discipline | 3–6 Years | Chicago, IL | Hybrid – 3 Days In Office | $235,000–$305,000 Base + Benefits & Bonuses | AMLaw Ranked Firm Watts & Associates is working discreetly with a highly regarded AMLaw ranked national full-service law firm with a broad patent litigation, prosecution and counselling platform seeking a IP Patent Associate with 3–6 years of experience to join its Chicago, IL office. This opportunity offers a genuinely varied patent practice spanning litigation, prosecution, post‑grant proceedings, licensing and portfolio strategy within a nationally recognised intellectual property practice. The successful attorney will work closely with partners and attorneys working seamlessly across offices, take ownership of substantive matters and gain exposure to district‑court litigation, Federal Circuit appeals, PTAB proceedings and client counselling. Company Highlights National full-service platform with a multidisciplinary intellectual property practice Broad patent capability across litigation, prosecution and portfolio management Federal district‑court, Federal Circuit and PTAB experience Work involving licensing, counselling, enforcement and risk management Clients operating across technology, manufacturing and innovation‑led industries Cross‑office model providing varied matters regardless of resident office Partner‑led teams with increasing client contact and responsibility Hybrid policy with three office days and strong team accessibility Why This Opportunity Stands Out Join a versatile patent practice offering: A rare blend of litigation, prosecution and counselling work District‑court, Federal Circuit and post‑grant exposure Ownership of discovery, motions and prosecution workstreams Direct access to partners and sophisticated clients Strategic patent, licensing and portfolio experience Opportunities to broaden beyond a single IP silo Long‑term development across the full patent lifecycle The Role The successful attorney will support and lead patent matters, including: Handle patent litigation in federal district courts Support Federal Circuit appeals and post‑grant proceedings Draft motions, briefs and discovery materials Take and defend depositions with appropriate supervision Prepare experts and support claim‑construction strategy Supervise patent prosecution and patent‑agent workstreams Counsel clients on strategy, risk and enforcement Support licensing and portfolio‑management matters Track legal developments and emerging technologies The role offers direct collaboration with partners, senior attorneys and clients, together with increasing responsibility and opportunities to take ownership of important workstreams. Ideal Candidate Profile The firm is seeking an IP Patent Associate with: Three to six years of AMLaw firm experience Patent litigation, prosecution or substantial related experience Admission Chicago state bar and the USPTO Strong research, writing and oral‑advocacy skills Excellent academic credentials and interpersonal skills Ability to work independently and collaboratively Capacity to manage multiple matters and client priorities Commitment to developing broad patent expertise A degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering or a related discipline is preferred. Compensation and Benefits The anticipated base salary range is $235,000–$305,000, depending on experience, qualifications, location and other relevant factors. The firm also offers bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, retirement support, paid time off, family‑care benefits, professional development, wellbeing resources and pro bono opportunities. #J-18808-Ljbffr Watts & Associates Recruitment