Patent Agent – Intellectual Property & Technology

Direct Counsel is seeking an experienced Patent Agent to join a globally recognized, full-service law firm within its Intellectual Property & Technology practice. This position is open across multiple U.S. offices, including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, New York, Phoenix, Short Hills, St. Louis, and Washington, DC.

This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong and highly motivated patent professional to work on cutting-edge innovations across a wide range of industries while collaborating with a dynamic and multidisciplinary team.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute U.S. patent applications across chemical, materials science, and related technologies

• Guide and manage foreign patent prosecution

• Conduct invention harvesting sessions directly with clients

• Advise clients on patent strategy, portfolio development, and invention disclosures

• Evaluate emerging and complex technologies

• Assist with patentability, freedom-to-operate, and other IP-related analyses

• Support IP litigation matters and provide technical expertise as needed

• Collaborate across practice groups on licensing, corporate, and regulatory matters

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field (advanced degree preferred)

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a patent agent (law firm or in-house)

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Strong experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications

• Technical versatility and ability to work across a range of technologies (software experience is a plus)

• Excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills

• Detail-oriented with a proactive, client-focused mindset

Why This Opportunity

• Work on cutting-edge technologies with a diverse client base

• Join a collaborative, multidisciplinary IP practice

• Gain exposure to high-level patent strategy and complex matters

• Be part of a firm offering significant resources and cross-practice integration

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $170,000 – $230,000, depending on experience and location

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)

• Generous PTO and paid holidays

• Performance-based bonus opportunities