Job Type
Full-time
Description
What This Role Actually Does You will take
active ownership of patent work-not just assist.
- Draft and prosecute patent applications (primarily life sciences / chemistry)
- Respond to office actions and support USPTO interactions
- Manage your own docket (with guidance early, independence quickly)
- Communicate with clients on execution-level matters
- Work directly with legal assistants to move matters forward
This is a
producing role, not a training sandbox.
What You'll Be Measured On - Billable performance + realization rate and budget targets
- Quality of work product (low revision, zero missed deadlines)
- Turnaround speed (we work ahead, not reactively)
- Docket ownership (organization is non-negotiable)
- Communication (internally and with clients)
What Success Looks Like By 30 days:You're contributing real work and learning our systems
By 60 days:You're handling matters with moderate oversight and hitting billables
By 90 days:You're managing your own docket and operating with growing independence
This Role Is NOT For You If: - You need constant direction or hand-holding
- You struggle with organization or deadlines
- You want to "ease into" practicing law
- You're here for lifestyle but not performance
- You resist feedback or think you already know everything
Requirements
Required Background - Life sciences or chemistry background (MS/PhD required)
- JD and Patent Bar equired
- 0-2 years of relevant experience (firm experience preferred)
- Basic familiarity with patent drafting/prosecution
The Kind of Person Who Thrives Here - Humble, coachable, and eager to improve
- Highly organized and detail-oriented
- Proactive-you don't wait, you move
- Flexible in a growing, evolving environment
- Genuinely enjoys the science and the work
We offer: - Reasonable billable expectations (~1700 range)
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) and commuter benefits
- Mental health days + birthday leave
- "Sunshine Fridays" (early Fridays when targets are met)
- A collaborative, respectful team environment
Apply If You're Serious About Growing If you want to
do meaningful legal work early, grow quickly, and be part of a firm that's building something-apply.
If you're looking to coast, avoid accountability, or be told what to do every day-this isn't the role.
Application Requirements:Please submit a resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in this role and in working at a smaller, non-corporate law firm.
Salary Description
$120,000 - $150,000
