Remote Patent Prosecution Assistant

Fully Remote with the option to work in-office or hybrid in Philadelphia, PA, Wilmington, DE, or Alexandria, VA if so desired. Must reside in the Mid-Atlantic region (NY, NJ, CT, PA, DE, MD, DE, VA, DC).

GENERAL SUMMARY

We are seeking a mid level (5+ years) Intellectual Property Assistant and Foreign Intake Paralegal to join our team. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and client liaison skills, strong organization and attention to detail. Primary responsibility is to assist assigned attorneys and agents (practitioners) with patent prosecution and IP transactional matters as well as assist practitioners with filing U.S. patent applications for U.S. and foreign clients.

QUALIFICATIONS

A minimum of 5-years of patent-related experience is required. Bachelor’s degree, paralegal certificate, or equivalent work experience is required. Knowledge of U.S. patent prosecution procedures and/or law firm experience is required. Experience with US patent application filing process (electronically and on paper). Proficiency in Microsoft products: Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. Proficiency in document management systems and automated docketing systems. Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills. Strong attention to detail. Client driven team player with strong customer service orientation. Ability to manage multiple priorities and competing demands. Ability to work independently and as part of a team interacting with all levels of Firm personnel. Able to operate general office equipment such as laptop computers, calculators, and printers.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

IP ASSISTANT

Work independently to manage docket and ensure attorneys can meet all deadlines and regularly update docketing department regarding actions taken. Prepare weekly docket reports. Prepare patent applications and prosecution documents including, but not limited to, amendments, responses, communications, and appropriate transmittal forms during all stages of patent prosecution. Prepare and file applications and USPTO correspondence via IPDAS/Patent Center. Prepare new client and matter request forms for new cases, follow up to ensure signed Engagement Letters are received. Correspond with U.S. and foreign clients and foreign associates regarding acknowledgment of correspondence received, and review documents received for completeness. Prepare manual invoices to send to clients and associates. Draft email correspondence to be revised and sent by the attorney. Utilize IPDAS software to generate prosecution documents. Review A/P invoices, and prepare and submit check request forms.

PARALEGAL (FOREIGN INTAKE)

Prepare and file new US patent applications. Maintain knowledge of filing requirements, patent prosecution procedures, etc. Prepare and review appropriate correspondence from foreign associates and to clients regarding new applications, formal requirements, filing details, etc. Provide follow-up service regarding due dates to clients by telephone, e-mail or letter. Prepare and forward to clients, letters, formal documents, acceptance notices, filing reports, etc. Coordinate with the accounting group to prepare manual invoices and send them to clients. Prioritize workload to meet filing deadlines and due dates. Regularly update the docketing department regarding actions taken. Maintain a high-quality work product and ability to schedule work to meet department deadlines and perform job responsibilities under pressure efficiently, productively and in a professional manner. Analyze incoming communications (email, mail, faxes, etc.) for pertinent data and relay that information to clients and timekeepers as needed. Utilize IPDAS software for all aspects of managing patent prosecution, including generating PTO forms, reporting letters, managing Information Disclosure Statement references, and filing documents electronically with the USPTO. Other duties may be assigned as needed to support the operational needs of the firm. This role may require overtime, and all overtime must be pre-approved by a supervisor in advance of the work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time while working at a desk or computer workstation. Ability to consistently operate a computer, keyboard, mouse, and other standard office equipment for the duration of the workday. Ability to view and read information on a computer screen for extended periods of time with or without visual aids. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively via telephone, video conference, and written correspondence. Ability to occasionally move or transport items weighing up to 15 pounds, such as a laptop, files, documents, or office supplies. Ability to organize and manage physical or electronic documents, requiring frequent use of fine motor skills. Ability to maintain reliable internet connectivity and operate within a home office environment that meets the firm’s remote work standards. Ability to work a consistent and predictable schedule, including the capacity to attend virtual meetings and respond to communications during regular business hours.

WORK SCHEDULE & ATTENDANCE

The expected work schedule is 35 hours per week, during the firm’s operational hours. Work schedule & attendance for this role must be reliable and punctual, as attendance is an essential function of the role. Panitch Schwarze is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state law. Panitch Schwarze offers work-life balance initiatives, remote or hybrid work, flex schedules, competitive salary, top tier benefits, time off, and bonus programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr Panitch Schwarze Belisario & Nadel LLP