IP Specialist

Summary: IP Specialists at Dickinson Wright PLLC (“the Firm”) provide administrative and legal support to assigned attorneys in accordance with established Firm policies and procedures. Working under the supervision of their attorneys and Manager of IP Staff, they function as part of the IP administrative team, working with attorneys and staff to manage Intellectual Property matters.    

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The IP Specialist provides critical administrative and legal support to attorneys and clients. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Deliver comprehensive administrative support to attorneys and clients, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail in all assigned tasks.
2. Utilize office technology, including computers, word processing software, transcription tools, copiers, scanners, and telecommunication equipment, to complete tasks efficiently.
3. Maintain physical and electronic files on behalf of clients.
4. Prepare and file patent applications with the USPTO and WIPO, including direct filings, National Stage filings, and Designs.
5. Prepare and file formalities and responses with the USPTO and WIPO.
6. Track deadlines and coordinate with the Firm’s internal docketing department to maintain and update centralized docket.
7. Draft correspondence to clients and on behalf of clients.
8. Communicate effectively with attorneys, clients, and vendors via email, phone, and other platforms.
9. Manage Intellectual Property projects on behalf of clients.
10. Input invoices for work performed on the client’s or the Firm’s behalf in other jurisdictions.
11. Assist attorneys in filing, prosecuting and post-grant maintenance of patent and trademarks.
12. Track and manage attorney expenses, reimbursements and client invoices in compliance with Firm policies.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities Required:

The ideal candidate for the IP Specialist role will meet the following qualifications and possess the necessary skills to succeed in a fast-paced legal environment:

1. High school diploma or equivalent required, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
2. Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience.
3. Strong written communication skills, including the ability to proofread and edit legal correspondence and documents for grammar, spelling, and typographical accuracy.
4. Highly detailed oriented with strong organization skills and a commitment to accuracy and quality.
5. Ability to work independently while also thriving in a collaborative team-based environment.
6. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with attorneys, clients, and team members across all levels.
7. Demonstrate experience managing high-volume workloads and tight deadlines in a professional and composed manner.
8. Flexible, with strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to navigate evolving priorities and challenges.
9. Comfortable working under pressure, with the ability to maintain focus and performance during periods of high mental demand.
10. Willing and able to work full-time hours aligned with clients and Firm needs.
11. Consistently maintains regular and timely attendance in accordance with the work schedule.
12. Exercise discretion and good judgement when handling sensitive or confidential information and making decisions.
13. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
14. Experience with CPI, IPDAS, 3E and NetDocs preferred. Current working knowledge of CFR rules at the USPTO and in foreign jurisdictions.
15. Comfortable working at a computer for extended periods.
16. Ability to occasionally lift up to ten pounds.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements. Please note that a variety of factors determine compensation, including geographic location, experience, relevant degrees and certifications, and other applicable factors authorized by law.

Dickinson Wright offers a generous benefits package for eligible fulltime employees within our U.S. offices, including health, dental, and vision; 401(k) and profit sharing plans; paid vacation; and parental leave. Additional elective programs include: a health flexible spending account, a health savings account, identity theft protection, a dependent day care reimbursement account, commuter benefits, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability protection, an employee assistance program, and emergency travel assistance.

We are an equal opportunity employer.  All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.