Patent Prosecution Attorney

Associate Attorney – Patent Prosecution (Chemistry)Locations: Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Washington, DC, Houston, Minneapolis, Newport Beach, New York, Redwood City, San Diego, WilmingtonDirect Counsel is seeking a Patent Prosecution Associate (Chemistry) to join a leading Am Law intellectual property firm. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated attorney to work with cutting-edge technologies and innovative clients across a broad range of chemistry and life sciences matters.The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background, exceptional analytical and writing skills, and experience handling sophisticated patent prosecution matters in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.ResponsibilitiesDraft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications related to chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and small molecule technologiesConduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity analysesCollaborate with inventors, scientists, and in-house counsel on strategic intellectual property mattersDevelop and manage global patent portfolio strategies for innovative clientsProvide sophisticated legal and technical analysis on complex intellectual property issuesWork closely with attorneys and technical specialists in a collaborative, team-oriented environmentQualificationsJ.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentialsActive membership in at least one U.S. state barRegistration before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office requiredPh.D. in Chemistry or a closely related field required1–3 years of patent prosecution experience focused on chemistry, small molecule, and/or pharmaceutical technologiesExcellent written and verbal communication skillsStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilitiesAbility to manage multiple matters in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detailCompensation & BenefitsSalary range: $225,000 – $260,000, depending on experience and qualificationsHybrid work flexibilityComprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverageTechnology stipend and wellness initiativesFamily-friendly benefits and support resourcesCollaborative and inclusive firm culture with significant professional development opportunitiesThis position offers the opportunity to work alongside nationally recognized intellectual property attorneys while advising some of the world's leading innovators in chemistry and life sciences.