Associate General Counsel

Tätigkeitsbereich:Forschung & Entwicklung incl. DesignFachabteilung:IP & PatentsGesellschaft:Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc.Standort:Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc., Atlanta, GA Startdatum:sofortVeröffentlichungsdatum:27.10.2026Stellennummer:MER00048EQArbeitszeit:VollzeitAufgabenAt Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America (MBRDNA), we are committed to delivering world-class automotive technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Our teams of highly skilled engineers and designers use cutting-edge software and technology, to enhance the driving experience and reduce environmental impact.Position OverviewThis role oversees IP protection, prosecution, and strategic activity for all Mercedes-Benz IP operations in North America. About MBRDNA. Embedded in a worldwide network, Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America (MBRDNA) continuously strives to remain at the forefront of successful automotive research and development. MBRDNA includes locations in Silicon Valley, Atlanta, Ann Arbor, and Carlsbad. In Silicon Valley, we work on key areas of Advanced Interaction Design, Digital User Experience, AI/Machine Learning integration and infrastructure for vehicle personalization, Autonomous Driving, Customer Research and Business Innovation. In Ann Arbor, the focus is on Powertrain including battery development/design, charging, eDrive Testing and Regulatory Affairs Division. The Advanced Vehicle Design in Carlsbad, California completes the picture. Together, all the developers, technicians, engineers and designers take on the challenges of creating the next mobility innovation for Mercedes-Benz customers around the world. They are inspired by the newest trends, find the best solutions for the customer, develop the latest and greatest technologies and create the next generation of connected, safe, sustainable and luxurious vehicles. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. (If you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, asylee or refugee, sponsorship is not required to work in the United States.)Job Responsibilities:Lead and manage the North American IP & Patents team (patent professionals (including patent engineers and patent attorneys), paralegals, and administrative assistants).Select, interview, hire, and train new IP team members.Assess the patentability of harvested inventions and evaluate the achievable scope of IP protection, taking into account the company IP strategy.Assist business unit managers/project leaders in implementing the company IP strategyMonitor and evaluate third-party IP rights for relevance to the company, and assess and advise on potential defensive measures.Pursue avenues of IP portfolio licensing by conducting thorough infringement analyses and coordinating licensing efforts with the global IP team.Examine the legal status of domestic and foreign IP rights, in cooperation with external or foreign attorneys if necessary, especially in cases of suspected issues involving third-party IP rights.Manage outside IP counsel’s patent application drafting and filing activities, and analysis of third party IP rights.Keep the company updated on IP policy, legislation, and case law.Advise North American Mercedes-Benz legal departments on questions of IP law and strategy and liaise between North American and foreign IP prosecution/litigation offices. Support contract negotiations with third-party technology collaborators, advising on issues relating to, e.g., IP ownership.Coordinate with other companies, universities, trade groups, and consortiums on IP and technology policy matters. Develop and provide IP training for cross-functional teams throughout the company. Implement and improve company inventor incentive programs. Work closely with company IP colleagues in North America and abroad. Manage US-based patent prosecution activity for globally developed innovation at Mercedes-Benz, including developing and maintaining outside counsel relationships and ensuring robust IP protection for new product offerings.Identify potential IP licensing targets and facilitate third-party outreach and licensing negotiations in North America.Develop and execute best practices for all company IP creation originating in or entering the U.S.Actively participate in the Mercedes-Benz IP leadership team and IP risk board to support global decision-making regarding company-wide IP rights, strategy, budgeting, and staffing.Coordinate with the company’s U.S. External Affairs team on IP and technology policy matters, including proposed legislation, trade group policies and congressional communication, and CAFC/SCOTUS amicus briefs.Support IP litigation and Inter Partes Reviews involving the company.Act as the North American point of contact for all Standard Essential Patent (SEP) issues including incorporation of standards into vehicle systems and algorithms, potential litigation, and licensing activity including patent pools and networks. *Position Title and Level will be commensurate with professional background and experience. QualifikationenMinimum Qualifications:BS – electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, physics, or other science degree JD – Law Degree10-12 years prior experience as an IP attorney at a law firm, in-house, or both Experience with patent portfolio management Other licenses or certifications required:Licensed attorney in a US stateAttorney registered to practice before the USPTO Preferred Qualifications: Automotive, software industry IP experience The successful candidate’s starting pay will be determined based on a wide range of factors, including, but not limited to, job-related education, skills and experience, geographic location, and market conditions. In accordance with applicable pay transparency requirements, the current salary range for positions located in San Jose, California is $194,000 - $247,300 Compensation for candidates in other locations may vary based on the factors described above. This range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.This position may involve access to export-controlled technology, hardware, or software under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), 15 C.F.R. Parts 730-774 and possibly technical data, defense articles and defense services subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130. As such, Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America may be required to obtain an export license or authorization in accordance with United States law.Why should you apply?Here at MBRDNA, you create digital ecosystems around cars, you design a language between humans and machines, you make a car even more intelligent - you make the new reality for cars. MBRDNA was honored as one of the "Best Places to Work" by BuiltIn in January 2024, a testament to our commitment to creating an exceptional work environment. At each of our offices, we foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring every team member can thrive and innovate.Benefits for Full-Time* Employees Include:• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families• 401(k) with employer match• Up to 15 company-paid holidays• Paid time off (flexible time off for salaried employees), sick time, and parental leave• Tuition assistance program• Wellness/Fitness reimbursement programs* Internships & Contractors excluded from Full-Time Employee benefitsMBRDNA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and strongly supports diversity in the workforce. MBRDNA only accepts resumes from approved agencies who have a valid Agency Agreement on file. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, MBRDNA employees, or send to any MBRDNA location. MBRDNA is not responsible for any fees or claims related to receipt of unsolicited resumes.Mercedes-Benz Research and Development North America, Inc.PRIVACY NOTICE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTSBenefitsAm Standort Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc., Atlanta, GA Coaching Mit­arbeiter­rabatte möglich Mit­arbeiter­handy möglich Gesund­heits­maß­nahmen Mobilitäts­angebote Betrieb­liche Alters­ver­sorgung Die Benefits weiterer Standorte entnehmen Sie bitte den Standortseiten.KontaktMercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc.384 Northyards Blvd, Buildings 200 + 30030313 AtlantaDetails zum StandortMBRDNA Recruiting E-Mail: View email address on click.appcast.io Bewerben2 Weitere StandorteMercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc., Ann Arbor, MI3953 Research Park Drive48108 Ann ArborDetails zum StandortMercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc., San Jose, CA2708 Orchard Parkway95134 San JoseDetails zum Standort