What are the responsibilities and job description for the Patent Agent (Part-Time) - Intellectual Property - Dallas position at Winstead PC?
We’re looking for a highly motivated and detail-oriented Part-Time Patent Agent to join our legal team and support our growing patent portfolios. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical background and experience in patent prosecution who enjoys working closely with inventors, engineers, and legal professionals to protect innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Prosecute U.S. and international patent applications, including respond to office actions and manage communications with the USPTO and foreign patent offices
- Draft high-quality patent applications, including detailed written descriptions and figures, to protect innovative technologies
- Conduct and analyze comprehensive patent searches to identify prior art and assess the patentability of inventions
- Stay up to date on developments in U.S patent law and relevant technologies
- Audit and manage patent portfolios to ensure patent applications comply with the patent prosecution process, rules and regulations
- Maintain and manage patent docketing systems and deadlines
- Assist with IP due diligence, portfolio audits, and competitive landscape reviews
- Coordinate with in-house counsel on global patent strategy and filings
- Collaborate with inventors and R&D teams to identify and evaluate patentable inventions
- Support IP strategy development and contribute to invention harvesting sessions
Qualifications
- Registration to practice before the USPTO required
- Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a technical field (e.g., engineering, computer science, chemistry, biology)
- Minimum of four (4) years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably in a law firm or corporate setting
- Strong understanding of U.S. and international patent laws and procedures
- Excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Experience with patent docketing software
- Experience preparing and prosecuting patents in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, and/or life sciences preferred