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Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton, a global Am Law 50 firm, has an immediate opening for a Patent Prosecution Paralegal.
We are considering in any of the following offices: Century City, Chicago, Del Mar, Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Silicon Valley. There is only one opening.
Job Summary
Sheppard is seeking an experienced Patent Prosecution Paralegal to support attorneys and patent agents working primarily with life sciences clients. This role supports all stages of U.S., PCT, and foreign patent prosecution. The ideal candidate will have a strong working knowledge of U.S. and foreign patent prosecution rules and procedures, experience supporting life sciences clients and managing related portfolios, and the ability to stay highly organized and detail-oriented while balancing competing deadlines - both independently and collaboratively. The position involves managing multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and requires sound judgment, strong prioritization skills, and flexibility. The successful candidate will bring the technical, organizational, and administrative skills needed to carry out the duties and responsibilities outlined below, and will collaborate effectively with firm personnel at all levels.
Essential Functions
Work closely with attorneys and patent agents to prepare and file U.S. and PCT patent applications and prosecution documents, and coordinate foreign filings with foreign counsel.
Prepare formalities and filing documents associated with the USPTO (and/or international Patent Offices)
Proactively manage assigned dockets, review deadlines for accuracy, and coordinate timely action with attorneys, patent agents, foreign counsel, and the IP Docketing Team.
Review and process patent office correspondence, and keep clients informed of filings, deadlines, and prosecution developments.
Maintain accurate electronic files and patent portfolio reports, and assist with patent research, portfolio transfers, and IP due diligence projects.
Maintain accurate time records and meet the annual billable requirement.
Attends and actively participates in all training programs suggested by the Director and Associate Director of IP Administration.
Contributes to the overall success of the Firm by performing other duties as assigned.
Must be available and able to work during core business hours.
Required Qualifications
At least 6 years of patent prosecution experience (preferably in a law firm), with strong working knowledge of U.S., PCT, and foreign patent rules and procedures.
Hands-on experience with USPTO Patent Center and WIPO ePCT.
Experience supporting life sciences clients and knowledge of U.S. and foreign sequence-listing requirements.
Strong organizational, communication, and proofreading skills, with the ability to prioritize competing demands, exercise sound judgment, and work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and document management systems, with the ability to learn new technology quickly.
Strong attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, and excellent time management skills to meet deadlines.
Ability to work overtime, evenings, and weekends, as needed.
Education
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, plus substantial and relevant work experience. A bachelor's degree or some college is preferred.
License and Certification
An ABA-approved paralegal certification is required.
Computer/Software Knowledge
Must have proficiency in Windows, Microsoft Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, and Teams, and experience working with a document management system. Must be able to quickly learn new skills and systems.
Work Environment
Working indoors with limited exposure to hazards (only those that customarily come up with working in a high-rise building).
Indoor office work environment in a cubical or workstation.
The current Firm policy is hybrid–working in the office a minimum of 4 days per week and working from home one day per week (subject to change).
Overtime may be required as the job duties demand.
California: The salary range for this position is $51.00 - $76.00 per hour.
Illinois: The salary range for this position is: $55.00 - $82.00 per hour. This position is eligible for bonuses. This position is also eligible for medical, vision, and dental insurance. Please note that the foregoing compensation and benefit information is a good-faith assessment associated with this position only and is provided pursuant to Illinois Equal Pay Act.
We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
Sheppard is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, protected medical condition, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
#LI-KG1 #LI-Hybrid #LI-Fulltime #LI-Associate
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