US Patent Prosecution Assistant

At ArentFox Schiff, we know that diverse backgrounds produce different perspectives, richer thinking, and more creative solutions to the challenges our clients face. We hope you share that vision. Join us and take on the challenge of doing meaningful work while helping us build a culture that reflects our dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

JOB TITLE:  US Patent Prosecution Assistant **Immediate need - candidate needs to start ASAP**
 

DEPARTMENT: IP Administration

REPORTS TO: US Patent Prosecution Manager

FLSA CLASSIFICATION:   Non-exempt

LOCATION:

This position will be located in Washington, DC

JOB SUMMARY

The U.S. Patent Prosecution Assistant will, with minimal guidance, perform specialized work by providing patent prosecution administrative support to assigned clients.  A key component of the position is to provide support for portfolio management, review and report U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) correspondence to client; prepare and submit papers to the USPTO, engage timekeepers and clients with status updates, manage departmental deadlines and personal docket, and monitor workflow for assigned clients.  In addition, the U.S. Patent Prosecution Assistant will ensure compliance with policies and procedures implemented by the client and Firm and support the IP Department to ensure client service and satisfaction is achieved throughout all assigned responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES*

• Review, report and forward Letters Patent to the client.
• Review and report official Filing Receipts, Notices of Recordation and Notices of Publication.
• Review and report Office Actions.
• Review and report Issue Notifications.
• Prepare and electronically file documents at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (hereinafter “USPTO”).
• If applicable, enter time for tasks completed.
• Review and process foreign invoices, prior to forwarding to accounting.
• Assist with additional duties and projects as assigned by Firm timekeepers and management.

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MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
 

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

•   Ability to meet or exceed departmental quality and quantity standards per the Patent Prosecution Department Operational Guidelines.

•     Strong sense of accountability, taking ownership over projects and responsibilities and resolving issues proactively.

•     Ability to work independently and meet deadlines, including demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects with often competing deadlines.

•     Proven problem-solving skills and good judgment under pressure.

•     Ability to resolve issues and concerns proactively, constructively, directly and respectfully.

•     Ability to assess risk management issues and understanding when to seek appropriate assistance.

•     Respect for confidentiality of client information.

•     Ability to accurately interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written or oral form; to synthesize complex and diverse information.

•     Meticulous attention to detail, accuracy, and thoroughness.

•     Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of management, staff and timekeepers is essential.

•     Strong technical aptitude and understanding, including ability to quickly learn new software applications.

•     Proficient in software applications related to functions of position, including Word and Outlook; basic knowledge of Excel and PowerPoint preferred; some knowledge of docketing database preferred.

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Education:

• Minimum four-year college degree. Related work experience may be used in lieu of formal education.

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Experience:

•     This is an entry-level job and no experience is required.

ABOUT ARENTFOX SCHIFF:

ArentFox Schiff LLP is internationally recognized in core industries where business and the law intersect. With more than 600 lawyers and policy professionals, the firm serves as a destination for an international roster of corporations, governments, private individuals, and trade associations.

ArentFox Schiff is committed to equal employment opportunity and diversity in the workplace.  We maintain a policy of considering all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion or creed, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, citizenship status, order of protection status, national origin, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, physical or mental disability, parental status, source of income, military or veteran status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.  We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

* A job description is a general description of the function and major duties of a job.  It may not specify all duties, tasks, and assignments associated with a job.  It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to direct, assign, and control the work of employees in a unit.  Accuracy, attention to detail, ability to work effectively in a team environment, and ability to work in an atmosphere of multiple projects and shifting priorities are requirements of all jobs at ArentFox Schiff LLP.  Additional job-related qualifications may be specified for some openings.  Job descriptions are subject to periodic review.

Equal Opportunity Employer, Minority/Female/Disabled/Vets/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.

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WORKING CONDITIONS

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The following table indicates the degree of working conditions expected for the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to meet these requirements.

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N/A = 0-10%, Occasionally = 11-33%, Frequently = 34 - 66%, Constantly = 67 - 100%

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Requirement

Frequency

Travel

Occasionally

Sitting

Constantly

Standing

Occasionally

Walking

Frequently

Reading

Constantly

Typing

Frequently

Concentration

Frequently

Oral and Written Communication

Frequently

Horizontal Reaching

N/A

Twisting

Occasionally

Repetitive Arm/Hand/Finger Movements

Frequently

Weight

Occasionally, up to 15 lbs.