Patent Agent / Technical Advisor (CS/EE)

Direct Counsel is seeking a Patent Agent / Technical Advisor to join a leading international law firm’s Patent Counseling & Prosecution practice. This opportunity is open in Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York, Reston, San Diego, Seattle, and Washington, DC.

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated patent professional with a strong technical background in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related discipline to work alongside a sophisticated intellectual property team handling cutting-edge technologies.

Position Overview

The ideal candidate will bring a blend of deep technical fluency, patent prosecution experience, and strong communication skills, with the ability to translate highly complex technologies into clear, practical guidance for attorneys, in-house counsel, and business stakeholders.

This role will support a busy practice focused on patent counseling, prosecution, portfolio strategy, and litigation support, particularly in advanced software and hardware technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct prior art and patent database searches for patentability, validity, and freedom-to-operate analyses
• Analyze patents, technical publications, source materials, and scientific literature to support patent prosecution, counseling, and litigation matters
• Draft U.S. patent applications, including detailed technical specifications and claims
• Prepare and prosecute responses to USPTO office actions
• Assist attorneys with technology analyses for depositions, expert preparation, and litigation strategy
• Advise legal teams on complex software, hardware, AI, and machine learning issues
• Support strategic counseling on patent portfolio development and innovation protection

Qualifications

• Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field
• Strong industry or hands-on technical experience in software, hardware, or systems technologies
• Broad scientific and engineering knowledge, including a strong understanding of hardware/software interaction
• Experience or strong interest in artificial intelligence and machine learning strongly preferred
• Excellent technical writing, verbal communication, and analytical skills
• Ability to explain complex technologies in clear, business-friendly language
• Self-starter with strong initiative, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment
• Must be eligible to sit for the USPTO registration exam and otherwise meet the requirements for registration as a patent agent

Compensation & Benefits

The expected annual compensation range for this position is $125,000 – $228,000, with final offers based on experience, technical skillset, and geographic market.

The firm offers a highly competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Life insurance, AD&D, LTD, and short-term medical benefits
• Four weeks of vacation and two weeks of sick time annually
• 10 paid holidays
• Generous parental leave and fertility benefits
• Backup care and dependent support resources
• Law school tuition assistance for qualified patent agent candidates

This is a strong opportunity for a technically sophisticated patent professional seeking a long-term platform with top-tier resources, mentorship, and career development potential within a premier law firm environment.