Patent Attorney

Overview of the Role

We are expanding our Intellectual Property team and seeking a Patent Attorney to join us on a contract basis, with the opportunity to transition to full‑time employment. As a key legal contributor, you will play a central role in developing and protecting the company's global IP assets, advising on complex patent and trademark matters, and guiding internal stakeholders through the nuances of intellectual property law. This position offers hybrid flexibility and the opportunity to collaborate with a global team of inventors, engineers, and legal professionals in the rapidly evolving battery‑technology industry.

What You'll Do

Patent Drafting & Prosecution

• Prepare, review, and file a variety of patent applications-including provisional, non‑provisional, and PCT filings-ensuring compliance with USPTO and international requirements.
• Lead prosecution efforts by preparing legal arguments, responding to Office Actions, and communicating directly with patent examiners to secure robust, defensible patent protection.

IP Portfolio Strategy & Management

• Manage and strategically develop the company's global IP portfolio, maintaining docketing activities, tracking deadlines, and ensuring the accuracy of records.
• Conduct legal analyses on patentability, freedom to operate, infringement risk, and competitive landscapes.

Legal Research & Advisory

• Perform prior art searches and prepare written legal opinions on patentability, validity, and clearance.
• Provide practical, business‑oriented legal guidance to inventors, engineers, and leadership on IP strategy and risk mitigation.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with R&D teams to understand new technologies and align IP filings with the company's technical and business objectives.
• Support trademark matters, including prosecution, enforcement, and monitoring when needed.

Litigation & Enforcement Support

• Assist in IP‑related disputes by analyzing patents for potential infringement, validity challenges, or enforcement opportunities.
• Support outside counsel during litigation or contentious proceedings.

Regulatory & Compliance

• Ensure all IP activities adhere to U.S. and international laws, treaties, and procedural rules.
• Help establish and refine internal IP policies, workflows, and processes.

What We're Looking For

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• USPTO registration and active status as a Patent Attorney.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., electrical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, chemistry, or a battery‑related discipline).
• Ideally 1-3 years of legal experience in patent drafting, prosecution, and portfolio management; experience with battery technologies is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills and a solid understanding of U.S. and international IP laws and procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills-capable of distilling complex technical concepts into clear legal guidance.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple matters in a fast‑paced environment.
• A proactive, adaptable, and collaborative mindset.