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Entry Level Patent Agent Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Patent Agent information

See California salary details

$56.3K

$113.9K

$166.8K

How much do entry level patent agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level patent agent in California is $113,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,100.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level patent agent?

An Entry Level Patent Agent assists in drafting, filing, and prosecuting patent applications under the guidance of experienced patent attorneys. They work with inventors to understand technological innovations and ensure they meet patentability requirements. Typically, they have passed the USPTO patent bar exam and possess a strong technical background in fields like engineering or science. This role provides hands-on experience in intellectual property law and the patent application process.

What does an entry level patent agent do?

A typical day for an Entry Level Patent Agent involves drafting and filing patent applications, conducting prior art searches, and collaborating with inventors to understand the technical aspects of their inventions. You may also respond to communications from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and support attorneys in prosecuting patent applications. The role often requires balancing multiple cases simultaneously, working both independently and as part of a legal or technical team. This position offers extensive learning opportunities and direct exposure to the patent prosecution process, which is valuable for future career growth within intellectual property law.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level patent agent?

To excel as an Entry Level Patent Agent, you typically need a degree in a STEM field, strong technical writing skills, and a qualifying score on the USPTO registration exam. Familiarity with patent application software, database research tools, and knowledge of intellectual property law are highly beneficial. Attention to detail, strong communication abilities, and organizational skills are vital soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate patent filings, effective collaboration with inventors and attorneys, and compliance with complex legal standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Agent jobs in California?

The most popular types of Patent Agent jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Patent Agent jobs in California?

For Entry Level Patent Agent jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Patent Agent jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Patent Agent jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Patent Agent jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Patent Agent job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Patent Agent job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,940 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Entry Level Chemistry Patent Agent or Scientific Analyst

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Morrison Foerster
Law Firms • 1 - 5K employees

$105 - $135/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Overview

MoFo is a destination law firm for talented, ambitious practitioners who value collaboration, teamwork, and commitment to excellence. We are known around the world not only for delivering innovative yet practical client service but also for serving as an incubator for our top‑notch talent.

MoFo consistently receives top‑tier rankings from leading directories and publications, speaking to our legal capabilities, dedication to creating an inclusive workplace, and commitment to our communities.

Our Patent Prosecution Group

With 60+ Ph.D.s, 100+ advanced degrees, and multi‑lingual capabilities, including Chinese and German, we offer clients around the world a patent prosecution and counseling practice that is unrivaled in its depth of industry and technical experience. From the earliest stage of technical development to product clearance and licensing, our team develops a deep understanding of our clients’ business strategy so that we can customize an IP strategy for them. Learn more about the team and the work you can do at: https://www.mofo.com/capabilities/patent-strategy-prosecution.

Who You Are

The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in:

  • Preparing and prosecuting patent applications
  • Contributing to prosecution strategy
  • Providing technical and legal research and analysis with respect to matters pending before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
  • Providing technical support for PTAB and litigation proceedings
Requirements
  • Ph.D. in chemistry
  • Outstanding writing and analytical skills, and top academic credentials are essential
  • USPTO registration is not required
About MoFo

At MoFo, we collaborate as one firm, across borders, practice areas, and business functions and value fresh ideas and innovation over conformity and competition.

  • About Us: https://www.mofo.com/about
  • Diversity + Inclusion: https://careers.mofo.com/careers-diversity
  • Commitment to Pro Bono: https://careers.mofo.com/careers-pro-bono
  • The MoFo Foundation: https://www.mofo.com/culture/mofo-foundation
About Our Benefits
  • A variety of options for medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverage to meet the needs of you and your family.
  • Industry‑leading parental leave and family benefits including adoption and fertility treatment options and backup child and elder care.
  • Global wellness program, including free access to Talkspace and Calm apps.
  • Annual community service day to make an impact on your community and a birthday holiday just for fun.
  • Dedicated Talent Development team.
  • Competitive annual profit‑sharing contribution.
Search Firms

Search firm submissions are not requested nor considered at this time. All applicants must directly apply for consideration.

Inquiries

For questions regarding this position, please contact Michael Bastaki, Patent Recruiting Manager.

Morrison Foerster accepts applications for this position on an ongoing basis, until filled.

Palo Alto, CA annual salary range: $105,000 to $135,000.

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