IP Patent Assistant

Join Shumaker, where the excitement of legal excellence intersects with an enjoyable and vibrant workplace! We are not just an AmLaw 200 law firm, we are a dynamic, community-focused firm that thrives on the energy and enthusiasm of serving our clients and communities. At Shumaker, we believe in blending professionalism and fun, making us the perfect destination for those who seek both career growth and a lively, engaging work culture.

Summary:

An IP Patent Assistant assists attorneys, patent agents and paralegals with patent prosecution and related tasks. Assist with daily word processing projects and proofread all documents produced, checking for appropriate formatting, spelling, and grammatical errors, as well as ensuring that all attachments, exhibits, and enclosures are intact. Manage multiple deadline-sensitive projects and apply various procedural guidelines of differing jurisdictions.

FLSA Status:

Hourly Non-Exempt

Job Classification:

Reports and is responsible to assigned attorneys, patent agents, Service Line Leader, and the Office Administrator.

Essential Duties:

• Understands United States patent prosecution processes thoroughly. Finalizes format of and files U.S. patent applications.
• Writes, proofreads, sends, files and manages correspondence, memos, contracts, forms, and other related documents.
• Familiar with PCT patent application procedures.
• Coordinates with attorneys on non-patent and trademark intellectual property matters.
• Corresponds with clients domestically and abroad in respect of day-to-day patent matters handled by the attorneys of the firm.
• Corresponds with and provides instructions to foreign associate network throughout the world for all non-U.S. patent matters.
• Works creatively with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office staff to identify and resolve issues related to patent prosecution.
• Works collaboratively with firmwide IP team.
• Schedules/manages appointments and contact lists.
• Covers for Docketing Specialist when Specialist is out of the office.
• Manages incoming daily postal mail.

Other Responsibilities:

• Reviews and revises attorney bills as appropriate.
• Attends training sessions and staff meetings.
• Assists IP team with workload.

Education, Experience and Skills Required:

• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal skills including strong command of spelling, punctuation and grammar.
• Strong working knowledge of computer programs and online patent and trademark
• Types a minimum of 60 wpm.
• Minimum of high school diploma required.
• Previous patent prosecution experience required.

Physical Requirements:

Standing and walking regularly, up to two hours per day.

Sitting position static for up to one-half hour at a time.

Lifting and carrying up to 20 pounds occasionally.

Bending and stooping regularly, up to one hour per day.