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Entry Level Patent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AGCO

Patent Agent

North Metro, GA · On-site

Experience preparing or prosecuting patent applications (internship, coop, or entrylevel experience acceptable). Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills. * Ability to ...

AGCO

Patent Agent

Hesston, KS · On-site

Experience preparing or prosecuting patent applications (internship, coop, or entrylevel experience acceptable). Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills. * Ability to ...

BakerHostetler

Patent Scientist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Compensation The anticipated starting salary range for this entry-level position is $70,000-$75,000 ... patent prosecution expertise, and assuming increased levels of responsibility.

AGCO

Patent Agent

Tremont, IL

Experience preparing or prosecuting patent applications (internship, coop, or entrylevel experience acceptable). Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills. * Ability to ...

AGCO

Patent Agent

Hesston, KS · On-site

Experience preparing or prosecuting patent applications (internship, co-op, or entry-level experience acceptable). Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills. * Ability to ...

BakerHostetler

Patent Scientist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Patent Scientist will work with attorneys, inventors, and clients to evaluate innovative ... Compensation The anticipated starting salary range for this entry-level position is $70,000-$75,000.

GCX

Mechanical Engineer - Entry Level

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Our patented technologies, including the MagDOCK system, enable organizations across industries ... Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team. This role is well suited for early ...

LeafFilter

Entry Level Sales Representative

Erie, PA · On-site

$1.0K - $2.0K/wk

Looking for a high-energy, outdoor job where you can make serious cash? We're hiring Door-to-Door Appointment Setters to build interest and schedule quotes for our patented, #1 rated gutter ...

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Entry Level Patent information

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$74K

$152.7K

$300K

How much do entry level patent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level patent in the United States is $152,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are patent agents in demand?

Patent agents are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for intellectual property protection across various industries. They typically require a background in science or engineering and must pass the patent bar exam, with opportunities available in law firms, corporations, and government agencies.

Do I need a PhD to be a patent agent?

No, a PhD is not required to become a patent agent. Typically, candidates need a bachelor's degree in a science or engineering field and must pass the Patent Bar exam to practice before the USPTO. Advanced degrees can be beneficial but are not mandatory for entry-level patent agents.

What is an entry level patent job?

An entry level patent job typically refers to positions such as patent analyst, patent examiner, or patent agent trainee, where individuals assist in reviewing, researching, and processing patent applications. These roles are often designed for recent graduates or those new to intellectual property law and require skills in technical analysis, legal research, and attention to detail. Entry level patent professionals work under the guidance of experienced attorneys or examiners, learning about patent laws and procedures while helping to protect inventions and innovations.

How hard is it to become a patent agent?

Becoming an entry-level patent agent typically requires passing the Patent Bar exam and having a background in science or engineering. The exam is challenging and requires thorough preparation, but many candidates succeed with dedicated study and relevant technical knowledge.

What is the difference between Entry Level Patent vs Patent Agent?

AspectEntry Level PatentPatent Agent
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often in science or engineering; some may pursue patent-related certificationsSame as Entry Level Patent; typically requires passing the patent bar exam
Work EnvironmentSupport roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, or patent agenciesLegal practice, patent prosecution, and client consultations
Industry UsageEntry-level position in patent law and intellectual property sectorsLicensed professionals authorized to file patents and represent clients before patent offices

While Entry Level Patent roles involve supporting patent applications and research, Patent Agents are licensed professionals authorized to prepare and file patents, often with more responsibility and client interaction. Both roles require technical backgrounds, but Patent Agents have passed the patent bar exam, enabling them to practice independently in patent prosecution.

Can I be a patent agent without a law degree?

Yes, you can become a patent agent without a law degree; in the United States, passing the Patent Bar Exam and having a scientific or technical background are sufficient. A law degree is not required, but patent agents cannot represent clients in court or provide legal advice outside patent prosecution. Certification from the USPTO is necessary to practice as a patent agent.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level patent professional expect in their first year?

As an entry-level patent professional, you will typically assist with preparing and filing patent applications, conducting prior art searches, and drafting patent claims under the guidance of experienced attorneys or agents. You may also be involved in responding to office actions from patent examiners and performing legal research. Collaboration with inventors, engineers, and legal teams is common, giving you a chance to develop both technical and legal skills. The first year is a valuable learning period where you'll gain exposure to various technologies and the fundamentals of patent law.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Patent Agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Patent Agent, you need a strong background in science or engineering, excellent analytical skills, and typically a bachelor’s degree in a technical field. Familiarity with patent databases, USPTO filing systems, and, ideally, completion of the Patent Bar exam are important technical qualifications. Attention to detail, clear written communication, and strong organizational skills set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are crucial for accurately preparing patent applications, navigating legal requirements, and effectively supporting clients’ intellectual property needs.
More about Entry Level Patent jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Patent jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Patent job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Patent jobs? The most popular types of Patent jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Patent jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Patent jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Patent jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Patent jobs are:
Entry Level Patent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Patent job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,666 per year, or $73.4 per hour.
Entry Level Patent Agent/Technical Specialist

Entry Level Patent Agent/Technical Specialist

Barnes and Thornburg LLP

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Barnes & Thornburg rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 21 rated law firms

Job description

Barnes & Thornburg seeks a Patent Agent or Technical Specialist with a strong background in deep AI concepts to support our growing needs across multiple practices. We offer the opportunity to work on innovative projects in artificial intelligence within a collaborative team environment focused on next-generation technology. This position can be based in either our Chicago, Indianapolis, or Minneapolis offices, and recent graduates of local schools are strongly encouraged to apply.
Qualifications:
1. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering; a Master's degree is preferred
2. Prior coursework or practical experience (two to three years preferred) in deep AI is a significant asset, technical capability is our highest priority
3. Must demonstrate strong academic achievement, initiative, good character, and interpersonal skills
4. Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, or intent to sit for the patent bar within 12 months of being hired as a technical specialist
Responsibilities:
1. Assist with the preparation and prosecution of U.S. and foreign patent applications in technology-driven industries
2. Support the development and management of patent portfolios
3. Conduct technical research and analysis related to inventions, prior art, and patentability
4. Communicate technical concepts clearly for legal documentation and correspondence
5. Collaborate with attorneys, clients and inventors to understand and protect innovative ideas
6. Stay current on advancements in deep AI concepts, including review of relevant white papers
We will not consider resumes submitted by external agencies or recruiters for this position. Recruiters and agencies will not be compensated for assisting Barnes & Thornburg LLP in recruiting for this position, regardless of whether such party has a recruiting contract with us.
Equal Employment and Opportunity Statement:
Barnes & Thornburg is committed to equal employment opportunity in both principle and as a matter of policy. We will recruit, hire, train, promote, compensate and provide benefits to all applicants and employees without regard to ancestry, sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, religion, religious creed, mental and/or physical disability, medical condition, military and/or veteran's status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all recruiting, hiring, promotions, upgrades, layoffs, compensation, benefits, terminations and all other privileges, terms and conditions of employment. The firm complies fully with all federal, state and local equal employment opportunity laws.

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