About the Technical Specialist RoleSterne Kessler is seeking a Technical Specialist to join our Mechanical & Design Group in Washington, DC.
We welcome engineers and scientists from industry, academia, and graduate programs who are interested in applying their technical expertise to intellectual property law. Technical Specialists receive extensive training and formal mentoring and are expected to prepare for and sit for the Patent Bar within their first year at the firm.
What You'll Do- Work alongside experienced patent attorneys to research emerging technologies and innovations
- Collaborate with attorneys in preparing patent applications and Patent Office filings
- Work alongside experienced patent attorneys to engage with inventors, understand their innovations, and develop technical disclosures
- Support attorneys throughout U.S. and foreign patent prosecution
- Prepare written and oral technical analyses to support attorneys in developing patent strategies
- Work with the broader patent team to manage prosecution matters and monitor deadlines
What We're Looking For- Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Civil Engineering, or related area of study
- Strong technical, analytical, writing, and communication skills
- Relevant academic, research, or industry experience, including technical writing
- Genuine interest in applying your technical background to intellectual property and patent law
- Intellectual curiosity, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a passion for technology, and innovation
Location and Work Arrangement- Hybrid position based in Washington, DC, with flexible in-office scheduling and a flat relocation allowance for eligible relocating candidates.
Compensation & Benefits- Starting salary range for Technical Specialist title: $125,000-$155,000 based on experience, education and qualifications
- Billable Hour Goal: 1,900 hours
- Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, an on-site Wellness Center, a 401(k) plan, relocation assistance, backup childcare, wellness programs, and firm-paid life and disability insurance
- Compensation philosophy: The actual salary rate offered to candidates within that range will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, years of relevant experience, education, and the candidate's overall qualifications for the position as assessed by the firm.
How to ApplyPlease submit the following materials as a single PDF labeled: "FirstName LastName Application Materials"
- Resume
- All academic transcripts (unofficial copies accepted)
- Recent writing sample. If you used generative AI in your writing sample, please include a cover page that includes details of how you used AI.