Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney - San Francisco

Direct Counsel is representing an Am Law 100 firm seeking a Mid-Level Associate to join its Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Patent Prosecution Practice Group. This position offers flexibility across firm locations, with strong preference for candidates based in Atlanta, Denver, Houston, St. Louis, Kansas City, Los Angeles, or San Francisco.

Position Overview

This is a premier opportunity for a technically driven patent prosecution attorney with a background in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields. The ideal candidate will bring at least three years of experience handling sophisticated patent matters across emerging technologies, including AI and machine learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in cutting-edge areas

• Interface directly with clients to identify and protect core IP assets

• Assist in the strategic development of global patent portfolios

• Review technical disclosures, conduct prior art searches, and assess patentability

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on matters involving innovation and compliance

Qualifications

Required:

• JD from an accredited law school

• Active admission to a state bar and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Undergraduate or advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or Physics

• Minimum of 3 years’ patent preparation and prosecution experience in a law firm or in-house legal team

Preferred Experience Includes:

• Machine learning, artificial intelligence, and neural networks

• Radio frequency (RF) circuitry

• Communications and/or hardware security, including encryption/decryption technologies

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $240,000 – $365,000 annually, based on experience

• Discretionary performance-based bonus

• Comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Life and disability coverage

  • 401(k) retirement plan

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Voluntary benefit offerings

Application Requirements

• Cover letter

• Resume

• Writing sample

• Law school transcript