Intellectual Property Paralegal III

Band Level 3 Job Description Summary The IP Paralegal III will provide advanced intellectual property (IP) administrative and legal support, independently managing a broad range of patent prosecution and maintenance activities across U.S., European, international, and foreign jurisdictions. This person will be responsible for maintaining complex patent dockets, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely execution of critical IP filings and processes. As a subject matter expert, the Paralegal III applies deep knowledge of IP law and best practices while driving continuous process improvements across the department. The role also serves as a mentor and trainer for team members on patent‑related matters and leads operational initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, and service excellence. This role is based out of our La Jolla, San Diego office. You must attend the office 3x/week. Job Responsibilities File EP/US/international and foreign patent applications and related correspondence from filing to issuance of grant. Handle EP/US and international patent filings, patent nationalizations into foreign jurisdictions, and foreign filings under other conventions. Prepare all documents required in connection with EP, US, PCT and foreign applications, proactively initiating preparation of responses to official communications and notifications. Maintain and share advanced knowledge of latest patent rules and adapt practices to comply. Monitor and update electronic docket(s) for responsible attorney(s) and assigned paralegal tasks on a daily basis. Ensure all assigned cases meet deadlines in a timely manner. Review, maintain, and assist with attorney dockets and workload independently. Coordinate outsourcing, transfer in and transfer out of patent files and responsibilities efficiently to minimize risk of loss of rights. Communicate effectively with colleagues, inventors, foreign agents, and associates. Participate in patent group and cross‑divisional meetings. Provide support in other operational areas (annuity, invoicing, data input) as needed. Undertake projects addressing global prosecution and operational issues. Lead development of procedures and processes and recommend efficiencies. Desirable Requirements Provides complex prosecution services in a timely, professional, and reliable manner. Demonstrates advanced knowledge of EP/US and PCT patent formalities and global requirements. Manages workload with high quality in a multifaceted environment. Demonstrates competency with patent databases and reporting tools. Works independently and meets deadlines in an electronic environment. Applies strong research, analytical, and decision‑making skills with high attention to detail. Demonstrates strong communication and teamwork skills. Collaborates across divisions to ensure knowledge sharing and efficiency. Demonstrates leadership and ability to mentor other paralegals. Acts as a champion for the Operations team. Essential Requirements Paralegal/IP certification or equivalent experience. University/college education preferred. 7‑10 years patent paralegal experience (law firm or corporate, international/foreign filing). Leadership potential. Benefits & Rewards The salary for this position is expected to range between $119,700 and $222,300 per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors such as relevant skills and experience, and will be reviewed periodically. Your compensation will include a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility for annual equity awards. US‑based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time‑off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves. The Novartis Group of Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential. The Novartis Group of Companies is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e‑mail to View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message. #J-18808-Ljbffr U175 (FCRS = US175) Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Inc.