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Entry Level Patent Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARKA Group

Software Engineer {S}

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

Our team has received numerous patents and developed revolutionary and exquisite technologies that ... We welcome applicants at varying experience levels, from entry level to senior level for this ...

Hankook Tire

Quality Engineer (Entry Level)

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

May participate in intellectual property evaluations and development of patent applications ... Engineering and Technology - Demonstrated know-how related to practical application of engineering ...

Acuity Brands

Illumination Engineer Lead

Wheat Ridge, CO

$108K - $143K/yr

Open to considering candidates at the following skill levels: * Entry Level: Contributes to optical ... Document innovations and support patent development efforts. Support Broader Product Development ...

Acuity, Inc.

Illumination Engineer Lead

Wheat Ridge, CO · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Open to considering candidates at the following skill levels: * Entry Level: Contributes to optical ... Document innovations and support patent development efforts. Support Broader Product Development ...

Smith & Nephew

Manufacturing Engineer

Maple Plain, MN · On-site

$65K - $97K/yr

... a patented, FDA-cleared system designed to improve surgical fixation and long-term healing in ... : * Entry level to two years of experience in manufacturing engineering or process development

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Entry Level Patent Engineer information

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$96K

$149K

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

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level patent engineer in the United States is $96,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Patent Engineer?

An Entry Level Patent Engineer is a professional who assists in the preparation, filing, and prosecution of patent applications, typically under the supervision of patent attorneys or agents. They use their technical background—often in engineering or a related field—to analyze inventions, conduct prior art searches, and help draft patent documents. This role is ideal for recent graduates who are interested in intellectual property law but may not yet be licensed patent agents or attorneys. Entry Level Patent Engineers work closely with inventors and legal teams to ensure inventions are accurately described and legally protected. Over time, they may pursue further qualifications to advance in the patent law field.

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

AspectEntry Level Patent EngineerPatent Agent
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or science; some roles may require patent law courseworkJurisdiction-specific law degree; patent bar exam qualification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, patent firms; focus on technical analysisLegal settings, patent law firms; focus on patent prosecution and legal processes
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, R&D organizations, patent firmsLaw firms, corporate legal departments, patent offices

While both roles involve patent processes, Entry Level Patent Engineers primarily focus on technical analysis and patent drafting, whereas Patent Agents handle legal filings and patent prosecution. The choice depends on whether you prefer a technical or legal career path within the patent industry.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Patent Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering or a related technical field, strong analytical skills, and an understanding of intellectual property concepts. Familiarity with patent databases, prior art search tools, and drafting systems is typically required, and some positions may prefer candidates with a patent agent certification or relevant coursework. Attention to detail, strong written communication, and the ability to collaborate with inventors and attorneys are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate patent documentation, effective communication, and the ability to support the innovation and legal protection process.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level patent engineers when transitioning from academia to industry?

Entry level patent engineers often find the transition from academia to industry challenging due to the need to quickly grasp complex legal concepts and adapt to fast-paced project timelines. Unlike academic research, patent work requires concise technical communication, attention to legal details, and close collaboration with attorneys and inventors. Learning to draft patent applications that meet both technical and legal standards can be demanding, but on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced colleagues help bridge the gap. Over time, new patent engineers usually become adept at managing multiple projects and interacting with cross-functional teams.
More about Entry Level Patent Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Patent Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Patent Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Patent Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Patent Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Patent Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Patent Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Patent Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Patent Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Patent Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,000 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Software Engineer (TS/SCI) {S}

ARKA Group

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

ARKA Group L.P. ("ARKA") is an advanced technologies company serving the U.S. military, intelligence community, and commercial space industry delivering next-generation solutions to support the national security space enterprise. Built on more than six decades of excellence, ARKA brings modern approaches and a culture of innovation to the challenges of today.
We are seeking aspiring engineers, signals processors, and physicists excited to join our team that supports U.S. defense and intelligence community partners. We are developing the next generation of signal and image processing software, building on our 80-year history on the cutting edge of the radar and electro-optical fields. Our team has received numerous patents and developed revolutionary and exquisite technologies that is continuing with our current work.
By joining our team, you will build innovative software solutions to support users in the defense and intelligence communities. Your strong technical skills and passion for innovation will be instrumental in supporting our customers and their missions to keep us safe.
Position Overview:
ARKA's RST business unit is seeking aspiring engineers, signals analysts, and physicists to join our team to support the development of algorithms and software related to synthetic aperture radar, low observables, electro-optical, and other remote sensing capabilities. As part of ARKA, you will be at the forefront of developing and enhancing remote sensing capabilities and working in space emerging technology. You will learn about these technologies from the experts that discovered and patented these capabilities. This work requires candidates to have an active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance.
We welcome applicants at varying experience levels, from entry level to senior level for this position.
In support of work/life balance, many positions are available for a flexible schedule within the pay period. Ask us about the opportunity for flex scheduling if that's of interest to you.
Responsibilities:
  • Take algorithm definitions and prototypes and convert them into robust software applications
  • Collaborate with radar/electro-optical and research scientist experts to solve issues and iterate to improve product image quality
  • Design, develop, and maintain robust and scalable software applications using modern programming languages and technologies. If a software engineer, write clean, efficient, and well-tested code that adheres to best practices and coding standards
  • Learn about synthetic aperture radar (SAR) or electro-optical collection techniques
  • Participate in all aspects of the development lifecycle, including planning, requirements development, software design, implementation and build, documentation, testing, deployment, and maintenance
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in a timely and effective manner
  • Learning from our recognized leaders and setting oneself up for future leadership in the area

Required Qualifications:
  • Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance
  • A degree in computer science, electrical engineering, physics, or a related field; four years of professional experience in software or signals processing in lieu of a degree; or military background in electronic warfare and/or signals processing
  • Interest in learning remote sensing technologies
  • Familiarity with a programming language (preferably Python, C++, Rust, or similar)
  • Familiarity developing in Linux and/or in a cloud environment (AWS preferred)
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Ability to work within a team environment to advance large software development packages by taking on and completing tasks independently
  • Ability to work onsite

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance with a CI polygraph
  • Programming skills in multiple languages
  • Knowledge of, or background in radar or electro-optical fields.
  • Academic experience in digital signal processing
  • Scrum/Agile Development knowledge and experience with Jira
  • Experience writing software implementing algorithms
  • Passion for solving hard problems

Location: Chantilly, VA
Chantilly is a picturesque town located in Fairfax County. It has a wonderful historic history, welcoming charm, and many interesting attractions. The attractions found in Chantilly range from the 18th Century to outer space. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone looking to soak in the charm, Chantilly promises an unforgettable experience. Overall, its historic sites, museums, breweries, restaurants, music and many family fun activities make Chantilly a great place to call home!
What We Offer:
  • Comprehensive medical/vision/dental insurance packages
  • Company contributions to qualified HSA accounts
  • 401k retirement plan with industry leading company contributions
  • 3 weeks of vacation accrual per year plus time off for sick leave and unscheduled life events
  • 13 paid holidays
  • Upfront tuition assistance for approved degree programs
  • Annual bonus program based on company and employee performance
  • Company paid life insurance, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term disability insurance
  • 4 weeks paid Parental Leave
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)

EHS/Environmental Requirements:
This job operates in a professional office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee routinely is required to use hands to keyboard, communicate, listen to, and interpret instructions and remain stationary for extended periods of the time. This would require the ability to move around the campus and occasionally move/lift items weighing up to 25 lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Applicants are invited to apply for a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential duties of the job. To apply, send a request to staffing@arka.org or contact 203-797-5000 and press 2 for Human Resources.
ITC & Security Clearance Requirements:
This position requires an active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance.
Visa Restrictions:
No visa sponsorship is available for this position.
Pre-employment Screenings:
Employment with any ARKA companies in the U.S. is contingent upon satisfactory completion of several pre-employment requirements to include a credit check, background check, and drug screen.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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