IP Docket Clerk

Thompson Hine LLP, an AmLaw 200 firm regularly recognized for our commitment to Innovation and Inclusion, is currently seeking candidates for an Intellectual Property Docket Clerk to work in any of our Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, or Dayton offices. This position is responsible for providing Intellectual Property (IP) docket and case management support to the timekeepers and secretaries in the firm.

A successful candidate for this Docket position will have experience in one or more of the following areas; Docket, Intellectual Property (IP) Docketing, Legal Support, IP Support, IP Legal Assistant, IP Secretary, IP Paralegal, or use of PATTSY, or similar, docketing software background.

JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Reviewing and responding to e-mail directed to the IP Docket mailbox. Ensures accurate and timely completion of all requests within 24 hours of receipt.
2. Enters and maintains information in the IP docket software database, calculates action due dates, and makes appropriate entries. Ensures any relevant documents associated with a matter and/or action are attached in the IP docket software and linked with the Document Management System.
3. Responds in a timely and efficient manner to inquiries from attorneys, paralegals and secretaries regarding case status information via direct communication with the courts and agencies.
4. Performs on-line research via public access websites, Patent Center, USPTO, and Foreign PTOs.
5. Demonstrates familiarity with patent and trademark documents and workflow for both foreign and domestic applications.
6. Responsible for the distribution of daily reminders and ad hoc reports.
7. Responsible for providing daily reminders of event deadlines and to make follow up inquiries with timekeepers to ensure appropriate conclusions.
8. Identifies, recommends and documents changes to IP docket policies, procedures, forms, etc. to provide better service and support to timekeepers.
9. Provides back up support to the IP Docket Manager.
10. Additional duties, as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training and/or Experience

1. High School Diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor's degree preferred.

2. Three to five years of Law Firm IP Docketing, or related IP experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Computer knowledge: Windows, Internet, typing and data entry skills. Knowledge and previous use of PATTSY (or similar), CPI, Foundation IP (FIP) or other IP docket software preferred. Knowledge of NetDocuments or other comparable Document Management software preferred.
• Strong familiarity with the patent and trademark process, both U.S. and foreign.
• Excellent customer service skills and telephone etiquette are mandatory.
• Ability to develop working relationships and cooperate with various firm departments, attorneys, staff, and court employees.
• Ability to work independently.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• General familiarity with the Rules of the USPTO and/or Foreign PTO.
• Must practice confidentiality at all times.
• Regular attendance and punctuality are essential functions of this job.
• Possesses interpersonal skills necessary in order to communicate and follow instructions effectively from a diverse group of clients, attorneys, and staff and is a team player.
• Ability to handle tasks under pressure.
• Ability to adjust work schedule to work other hours, as required.
• Growth mindset to enhance emotional intelligence, empathy and an understanding of inclusion and belonging practices that support managing and collaborating across differences.
• This position requires the employee to work at a specified location and hours determined by the Manager for the benefit of the department and firm. Changes to the location and/or scheduled hours must be approved by the Manager.

Pertinent to our Chicago and Cleveland offices, compensation is determined upon the market in which the position is located, the responsibilities of the position, the experience and skills of the applicant, and other job-related factors. The starting salary range for this Cleveland position is $66,500 to $83,000 and Chicago position is $70,500 to $90,000.

Thompson Hine LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer that offers competitive wages, and a robust benefits package. Benefit offerings include, but are not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as Paid Time Off (PTO).