Technical Specialist

Technical Specialist Role

Sterne Kessler is looking for a Technical Specialist to join our Electronics Group. We are looking for top-notch engineers from industry and academia, as well as recent graduates who are interested in pursuing a career in intellectual property law. As a Technical Specialist, you will be supported by two formal mentors. Also, Technical Specialists are expected to study and sit for the Patent Bar within their first 1-2 years with the firm. Upon passing the US patent exam, Technical Specialists become practicing Patent Agents.

Role location: This role is based in our Washington, D.C. office on a hybrid basis, with regular in-office days. You have flexibility to pick which days you work in the office. Sterne Kessler offers relocation reimbursement up to a certain amount to offset moving costs.

Responsibilities & Requirements As a Technical Specialist in the Electronics Group, you will:

• Perform research into developing and emerging technologies
• Prepare written and oral reports to attorneys and/or patent agents
• Assist and prepare patent applications and other Patent Office filings, such as Information Disclosure Statements, replies to Notice to File Missing Parts, responses to Office Actions and Appeal Briefs for signature by attorneys and/or patent agents
• Interact with inventors to obtain disclosures
• Maintain and organize prosecution files
• Assist with prosecution of foreign patent applications by preparing letters of instruction to foreign associates for signature by attorneys and patent agents
• Maintain and monitor docket of work due dates

Requirements: Master's in electrical engineering and/or computer engineering. Genuine interest in applying your scientific and research experience to the IP and patent law field. Preferred skills: A GEEKy hobby! Really! Ask about our GEEK WEEK gatherings. PhD in electrical engineering and/or computer engineering. An enterprising spirit to build on the comprehensive formal and informal training you will receive.

Compensation philosophy: The actual salary rate offered to candidates within that range will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, years of relevant experience, education, and the candidate's overall qualifications for the position as assessed by the firm. Salary range: The salary range for this role is $110,000 to $155,000 at a 1900 billable hour goal. Technical Specialists are expected to start with a 1900 billable hour goal.

Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans in addition to virtual care services through CloseKnit On-site Wellness Center in our Washington, D.C. office Staffed by a full-time Nurse Practitioner, offers firm employees and other qualified family members with a range of medical services Relocation expense reimbursement (up to an approved amount) for moving to the DC metro area Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, dependent care Wellness program Firm-paid life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) coverage Firm-paid short and long term disability insurance Supplemental life insurance and supplemental AD&D coverage, supplemental long term disability insurance*, long term care insurance options 401(k) retirement savings plan Transportation commuter benefit program Back-up childcare and family support Pet insurance discount Employee Assistance Program services