Patent Agent - Intellectual Property - Des Moines, IA

Who We Are:

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Fredrikson is the premier Midwest-based law firm working collaboratively to help businesses achieve their goals regionally, nationally, and globally.

Overview:
We are seeking a Patent Agent or Staff Scientist to join our Intellectual Property group. This role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of technology, law, and writing, supporting a collaborative team of attorneys, patent agents, and technical professionals across a wide range of industries.

This position is well-suited for candidates at varying levels of experience, including entry-level individuals with strong technical and writing backgrounds who are interested in developing into a Patent Agent. The firm provides a structured training environment, including support for obtaining registration with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

The role will be based in our Des Moines office, with an expectation of being in-office to support onboarding, training, and integration with the team.

Key Responsibilities Include:
Patent Drafting & Prosecution Support
- Draft patent applications, including specifications, claims, and supporting materials.
- Assist in responding to USPTO Office Actions, including preparing amendments and supporting arguments.
- Ensure applications meet USPTO requirements and align with client objectives.
Technical Analysis & Prior Art Review
- Review and analyze inventions across a range of technologies, including medical devices, electronics, industrial equipment, and life sciences.
- Conduct prior art searches and evaluate patentability.
- Compare and contrast existing technologies and summarize findings clearly and concisely.
Inventor & Attorney Collaboration
- Participate in meetings with inventors to understand new technologies and innovations.
- Translate complex technical concepts into clear, structured written materials.
- Collaborate with attorneys and team members to support overall patent strategy and client service.
Workflow & Practice Development
- Develop and maintain consistent drafting and prosecution workflows.
- Proactively seek out work and contribute to the broader Intellectual Property group.
- Support ongoing process improvements and knowledge sharing within the team.
Administrative & Docketing Support
- Track deadlines and assist with docketing requirements.
- Support filing processes and ensure accuracy and completeness of submissions.

Required Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical field.
- Strong written communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex technical concepts.
- Demonstrated analytical skills, including the ability to evaluate and synthesize technical information.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Interest in intellectual property law and emerging technologies.

Desired Qualifications
- USPTO registration or eligibility to sit for the patent bar exam.
- Prior experience in patent prosecution, technical writing, research, or a related field.
- Advanced degree or additional coursework in a technical discipline.
- Experience working in a professional services or team-based environment.
- Demonstrated ability to think abstractly and identify key principles across complex concepts.

Benefits:
Our comprehensive benefits options include medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, short- and long-term disability, employee resource benefits (inclusive of counseling, coaching, and caregiving guidance), paid parental leave, parenting classes, pre-tax parking and transportation options, and much more! Our retirement plan includes financial planning, Social Security/Medicare planning, 401k/Roth investment options, and a firm-paid profit-sharing contribution. Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms and conditions.

The salary range for this position varies by geographical market and level of experience. In Des Moines, the estimated starting annual pay range will be determined based on experience, technical background, and qualifications. Compensation will be benchmarked in alignment with comparable roles within the firm.

Applying For This Position:
Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter. Applications will only be accepted online at For assistance with the application process or for accommodations, please contact


About Fredrikson:
With a reputation as the firm "where law and business meet," our attorneys and staff bring business acumen and entrepreneurial thinking to operate as business advisors, strategic partners, and legal counselors to our clients. To best serve our clients, we provide innovative solutions to legal needs while reflecting inclusion and diversity as core values. We offer highly competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits in a collaborative work environment. The firms 400+ attorneys serve clients through our ten locations around the world: Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and Mankato, MN; Bismarck and Fargo, ND; Ames and Des Moines, IA; Madison, WI; Saltillo, Mexico; and Shanghai, China. Visit for more information.

Fredrikson is an equal employment opportunity employer. xywuqvp All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.