Patent Attorney (Life Sciences / Chemistry) – Junior Associate

Description

Patent Attorney (Life Sciences / Chemistry) – Junior Associate

Washington, DC (Relocation Supported)

$150,000–$185,000 bonus full benefits

Burned out by BigLaw hours, pressure, or politics? Want high-caliber patent work — without the hours, pressure, or politics? Come join a boutique where you can grow, contribute, and actually enjoy your life.

At Hylton-Rodic Law, we’re looking for a junior patent attorney who wants meaningful IP work, real mentorship, and the chance to build a long-term role at a growing, science-driven firm.

About Us

Hylton-Rodic Law PLLC is a boutique intellectual property firm based in Washington, DC. We focus on patent protection, global strategy, and portfolio development for clients in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, biotech, and chemical industries.

We’re a small but growing practice known for high-quality work and a culture that values balance, integrity, and collaboration. Our attorneys enjoy manageable hours, direct partner mentorship, autonomy, and the opportunity to shape the future of the firm.

This is an ideal role for an early-career patent attorney who wants meaningful work, hands-on mentorship, and the chance to grow quickly in a supportive boutique environment focused on employee wellness.

What You’ll Do

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in the chemical, life sciences, biotech, and pharmaceutical areas
• Conduct prior art searches and draft patentability and FTO opinions
• Support IP diligence and portfolio strategy for emerging and established innovators
• Work directly with clients — no layers, no bureaucracy
• Collaborate closely with partners for hands-on training and career development
• As you grow: mentor junior colleagues, manage client relationships, and contribute to firm leadership
  
  

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

• 1–2 years of experience as a patent attorney with hands-on U.S. patent prosecution in the chemical or life sciences fields.
• Bachelor’s degree in a life sciences or chemical discipline is required.
• Master’s or Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemical engineering, or a related field is required.
• Admission to the USPTO and JD from an accredited U.S. law school.
• Excellent writing, analytical, and communication skills.
• A proactive, collaborative mindset — we value collegiality and curiosity.
• Interest in a balanced professional environment with room to grow and lead.
  
  

Why Hylton-Rodic Law

• Work-Life Balance: Reasonable hours, flexibility, wellness-focused culture
• Real Mentorship: Work directly with partners who invest in your development
• High-Caliber Work: Cutting-edge matters across life sciences and chemical technologies
• Growth & Leadership: A clear path toward increased responsibility and eventual equity partnership
• Supportive Team: Professional, kind, collaborative colleagues
• Convenient Location: A short walk from Tenleytown Metro
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $150,000 – $185,000 (depending on experience)
• Bonuses: Annual performance-based bonus tied to billable hours, realization rate, and contributions to non-billable firm initiatives.
  
  

Benefits Include

• Health, dental, and vision insurance subsidy
• 401(k) with matching
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and mental health days
• 6.5-day paid holiday break (Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Life and disability insurance
• Sunshine Fridays to wrap up the week
• Birthday leave
• Commuter benefits
  
  

How To Apply

Please submit your resume and a short cover letter explaining:

• Your experience in patent prosecution
• Why you're interested in Hylton-Rodic Law
  
  

If Selected For An Interview, We Will Request

• Transcripts (undergraduate, graduate, and law)
• Two writing samples (drafted application office action response)
  
  

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.