What is Sterne Kessler’s Apprentice Program?

Sterne Kessler is a leading Intellectual Property law firm. The apprentice program is our one-of-a-kind training program for entry-level positions in our Docketing, Foreign Filing, and U.S. Patent Prosecution departments, and the Mechanical & Design Practice Group. Our program is an 8-week hands-on training program that includes classroom lectures and learning, hands-on practice, presentations from our own industry experts, and support from experienced mentors. The 2024 Apprentice Program will be in person. The program runs from July 8th to August 30th. Apprentices should be in the DC area or willing to relocate.

For this hands-on-training program, we highly encourage participants to be present for all full 8 weeks with no vacation plans during the program barring any sickness and family emergencies. It is crucial for participants to the present in this classroom learning environment. 

Where does the Apprentice Program lead?

Successful apprentices can look forward to full-time jobs in our Docketing, Foreign Filing, and U.S. Patent Prosecution departments, and the Mechanical & Design Practice Group. After having exposure to all 3 departments and 1 Practice Group during the program, successful apprentices are placed into one department/practice group based on personal preferences and departmental needs.

Docketing employees typically enjoy detailed, data-driven work that is crucial to our firm’s success. Without a sharp, detail-oriented Docketing team, the rest of the firm would miss critically important deadlines. Our Docketing team members are our behind-the-scenes masterminds that keep our firm running smoothly.

Foreign Filing employees enjoy client-facing work and like utilizing their knowledge and judgment to navigate patent processes in other countries all over the world. Our stellar Foreign Filing team likes managing lots of moving pieces and details at the same time. In addition to working with external clients, our Foreign Filing team also works closely with our timekeepers to develop and grow each timekeeper’s foreign portfolio.

U.S. Patent Prosecution employees work closely with our patent prosecution attorneys to ensure our clients’ patent applications are formatted properly, all the necessary pieces are included, and submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on time. Our U.S. Patent Prosecution team provides crucial legal support to our timekeepers to facilitate the development of each timekeeper’s legal practice and individual client relationships.

Mechanical & Design Practice Group employees enjoy detail-oriented work and providing great customer service. They follow client-specific instructions and procedures to accurately maintain tracking spreadsheets and checklist. The Design team works closely with paralegals, and attorneys to provide support on design patent applications at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 

What kinds of qualifications do successful Apprentices have?

• Bachelor’s degree or high school graduate with some college study
• Experience working in an office or customer service environment
• Superior analytical and organizational abilities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to receive and process constructive feedback
• Ability to follow and effectively execute instructions
• Ability to work effectively under pressure
• Proven independent study habits
• Interest in beginning a career in intellectual property law
• Interest in a minimum 3 year commitment to the position

What is the selection process?

• We are reviewing resumes and applications on a rolling basis until we fill our class.

• First round interviews will be with our Staff Recruiting team. Candidates will be tested on their attention to detail and general writing skills in this round.

• Second round interviews will be panel interviews with our department hiring managers from Docketing, Foreign Filing, U.S. Patent Prosecution, and the Mechanical & Design Group. 

• Apprentices must successfully complete the entire program to be eligible for a full-time position.

What is the compensation for the Program?

$25.00 per hour during the 8-week training, plus full benefits: health, dental, vision, 401(k) participation after a month, pre-tax Metro and parking benefits, and many more.

To Apply

Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.

Sterne Kessler is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.