IP Docketing ManagerLocation: Remote
About the RoleThe IP Docketing Manager is responsible for leading the firm's patent docketing function, ensuring the integrity of critical deadlines, supporting a high-performing team, and driving operational excellence.
Working closely with attorneys, patent agents, IP specialists, and firm leadership, you'll oversee daily docketing operations while identifying opportunities to modernize workflows, improve efficiencies, and enhance the client experience.
What You'll DoLeadership- Lead, coach, mentor, and develop the IP Docketing team.
- Foster a collaborative, accountable, and service-oriented culture.
- Participate in recruiting, onboarding, training, and performance management.
- Build team capabilities through ongoing coaching.
Docket Management- Ensure all critical patent deadlines are accurately entered, monitored, and completed.
- Oversee daily docket review and quality control.
- Conduct periodic audits to maintain data accuracy and docket integrity.
- Serve as the escalation point for complex docketing questions and deadline issues.
- Perform docketing tasks on a daily basis to assist with the workload and maintain familiarity with current workflows, systems, and issues.
- Coordinate which staff members are assigned to which tasks.
- Direct weekly docketing department meetings.
Process Improvement- Evaluate current workflows and identify opportunities for greater efficiency.
- Partner with leadership to implement best practices and process improvements.
- Leverage technology and automation to streamline docketing operations, including implementing CPI's autodocket functionality on USPTO mail.
- Develop, maintain, and improve department procedures and documentation, including updating and completing the Docketing Manual.
Collaboration- Partner with attorneys, patent agents, paralegals, IP specialists, and administrative teams.
- Build strong relationships across departments to ensure exceptional client service.
- Communicate effectively regarding deadlines, procedural changes, and operational initiatives.
Training- Conduct onboarding training for new docketing staff and IP specialists.
- Provide ongoing education on system (e.g., CPI, IPDAS) updates, process changes, and best practices.
- Lead or participate in special projects that improve department performance.
What You BringRequired- Five or more years of intellectual property docketing experience.
- Prior experience leading or supervising a team.
- Strong knowledge of U.S. patent prosecution procedures and USPTO practices.
- Experience using IP docketing software.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage competing priorities while meeting critical deadlines.
Preferred- Bachelor's degree.
- Previous law firm experience.
- Experience with international patent docketing.
- Experience leading workflow improvements or technology implementations.
- Knowledge of Patent Center, TSDR, TEAS, WIPO PatentScope, Madrid Monitor, and other IP research tools.
We're Looking For Someone Who...- Enjoys building and developing high-performing teams.
- Thinks beyond "keeping the lights on" and looks for ways to improve processes.
- Takes ownership and follows through.
- Is analytical, organized, and detail-oriented.
- Can balance multiple priorities without losing sight of quality.
- Builds trust through collaboration and clear communication.
- Brings a positive, solutions-focused attitude to every challenge.
