What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trademark Paralegal position at James Hardie?
James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie, TimberTech, AZEK Exteriors, Versatex, fermacell, and StruXure.
With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we're united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.
For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.
The Trademark Paralegal will support the global intellectual property function and marketing teams, with responsibility for assisting with the management of a global trademark portfolio and the associated administrative processes. This role will be responsible for global TM clearance searches, supporting enforcement activities, and partnering with business stakeholders to ensure proper brand and TM usage.
This role will also assist with reviewing marketing, advertising, and promotional materials from all regions to ensure compliance with trademark, IP, and consumer protection requirements. The position requires strong collaboration with legal counsel, marketing, R&D, and external counsel across multiple jurisdictions.
The role reports directly to VP Global Intellectual Property. The role involves championing and supporting teams across the US, EU and APAC regions, so time flexibility is required, and the ability to travel. Diligence and a keen eye for detail are essential. The role is full-time as based at our corporate offices in Chicago, USA
Trademark & Brand Support
- Assist in the preparation, filing, and prosecution of global trademark applications, renewals, and maintenance activities
- Conduct trademark clearance searches and compile summaries for attorney review
- Maintain accurate trademark records and documentation across internal systems
- Support global trademark portfolio management, including coordination with outside counsel
2. Marketing & Advertising Review (Global Focus)
- Review marketing, advertising, and promotional materials for use in US, Australia and broader ANZ region to ensure:
- Proper trademark usage and brand consistency
- Compliance with TM rights, licensing terms, and legal guidelines
- Alignment with regional regulatory requirements and consumer protection standards
- Partner with marketing and communications teams to provide practical, business-aligned guidance on TM and brand usage
- Support development and maintenance of trademark usage guidelines and training materials
3. IP Operations & Portfolio Management
- Assist Senior IP Paralegal with maintaining and updating the global TM docketing systems to track filings, deadlines, and renewals
- Coordinate with internal legal teams and external counsel to ensure timely execution of TM actions
- Support TM renewals, filings, and documentation processes across multiple jurisdictions
- Assist with vendor management and coordination of TM service providers
4. Brand Protection & Enforcement
- Monitor potential trademark infringements and coordinate initial response actions
- Support takedown requests and enforcement initiatives in collaboration with legal counsel
- Assist in gathering evidence and documentation for disputes, oppositions, or enforcement matters
5. Cross-Functional & Global Collaboration
- Partner with:
- Marketing and Communications (brand usage, campaign reviews)
- Regional legal teams (ANZ, EU, NA)
- Provide administrative and project support for global TM initiatives and process improvements
- Participate in cross-regional TM/IP meetings and coordination efforts
- Bachelor's degree or TM/IP Paralegal Certification preferred
- 2-5 years of experience in intellectual property, trademark, or legal support role (in-house or law firm)
- Experience supporting global TM portfolios preferred
- Familiarity with Australian or APAC IP/advertising considerations is a strong plus
- Strong understanding of trademark principles and brand protection
- Experience with TM/IP docketing systems and legal review tools
- High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, global environment
- Strong communication skills with the ability to translate legal concepts into practival guidance
- Collaborative mindset with ability to partner across legal and business teams
- Flexibility to work overtime as needed, including evenings, weekends, and occasional travel
As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $80,000.00 to $110,000.00. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.
At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.
- Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
- Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
- Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
- Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
- Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
- Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
- Purpose. Impact. Community: Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie
James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.
James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.
Salary : $80,000 - $110,000