Patent Prosecution Paralegal

Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP, a large international law firm, is seeking a Patent Prosecution Paralegal for our Intellectual Property Department in our Raleigh office. This position will be part of our team of attorneys, paralegals and support staff providing a high level of service to both internal and external clients. At Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP, we are one team where each person plays an integral role in serving the needs of our clients. The firm has a strong dedication to its employees, values, diversity and inclusion initiatives and commitment to the community.

Under the supervision of attorneys, the Patent Paralegal will provide support for all types of U.S. and foreign patent activities. The paralegal will operate as part of a team of attorneys and support staff and will assume ownership for all aspects of file management to ensure a high level of service to both internal and external clients.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assist in filing of U.S., PCT and foreign regional patent applications and responses, both electronically and paper (including preparation and review of necessary filing documents)
• Overall support for all aspects of portfolio management
• Effect national phase entry of PCT applications, and prepare and file continuing applications
• Correspond with foreign associates and preparation of reporting letters to client
• Assist in drafting correspondence to clients regarding status of applications and patents, including reporting filing receipts for applications, publication notices, proofreading and forwarding patent certificates
• Draft detailed letter to client reporting Office Actions
• Review and manage docket for deadlines, understand docket and deadlines and action needed on each file
• Assist in patent filing strategy discussions and due diligence
• Communicate with appropriate attorneys and team members about docket
• Utilize Case Assistants or contract resources to prepare and file Information Disclosure Statements ensuring accuracy and consistency in work product. Performing PTA calculations and requests for correction
• Maintain accurate daily time records for client billing purposes

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience as a patent prosecution paralegal, legal secretary or comparable position with experience working in a law firm or in house legal environment
• Four year degree or equivalent law firm experience preferred
• Paralegal certificate from ABA approved program preferred
• Familiar with USPTO (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office) Procedures, Rules and Requirements
• Knowledge of U.S. and PCT patent rules and procedure; knowledge of national laws of other countries; knowledge of Paris Convention and deadlines set therein
• Knowledge of various Courts systems and filing requirements
• High level of proficiency with technology including Microsoft Office Suite applications, Adobe Acrobat, U.S. Patent Office Electronic Filing System, Dialog and other internet research tools
• Must have effective written and oral communication skills; Ability to compose routine correspondence
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently, prioritize assignments and handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Maintain confidentiality of client information
• Should have ability to work in fast-paced environment
• Ability to perform well under pressure
• Reliable and dependable team player
• Ability to work independently and take initiative to move projects to conclusion
• Must have sense of urgency relating to client requests and should be able to meet deadlines
• Strong work ethic, flexible, dependable, and positive can-do attitude
• Experience with Electronic Filing USPTO procedures
• Ability to travel, if needed

This is a full-time, regular position with a multi-faceted health benefit package including medical, dental, and vision. The firm also offers life insurance, short term disability plans and retirement plans in addition to holidays and paid time off. The pay range for this position is $41.00 -$61.00 per hour for a 37.5 hour work week.

Selected applicants will be contacted. Kilpatrick Townsend is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For more information about our firm, please visit our website at www.kilpatricktownsend.com.

Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP is committed to equal employment opportunity for all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex or gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.