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Patent Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Stoel

Mid-Level Trademark Associate

Portland, OR · On-site

$193K - $295K/yr

... patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets). Responsibilities * Manage domestic and ... associates must reach or exceed 1,850 billable hours (inclusive of up to 50 pro bono hours) and ...

A-dec, Inc. (USA)

General Counsel

Newberg, OR · On-site

$140 - $200/hr

... patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. Work with internal teams and external counsel on IP ... Ability to interact effectively with associates at all levels in all businesses across North ...

Stoel

Trademark Paralegal

Portland, OR · On-site

$75K - $99K/yr

Prepare and send foreign associate correspondence regarding new applications, responses, renewals ... Docket Software Responsibilities Learn and maintain complete knowledge of the patent and trademark ...

A-dec, Inc.

General Counsel

Newberg, OR · On-site

... patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. * Work with internal teams and external counsel on IP ... Ability to interact effectively with associates at all levels in all businesses across North ...

A-dec, Inc.

General Counsel

Newberg, OR · On-site

... patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. * Work with internal teams and external counsel on IP ... Ability to interact effectively with associates at all levels in all businesses across North ...

All JobsPatent Associate JobsPatent Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Patent Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$78.5K

$161.9K

$318.2K

How much do patent associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent associate in Portland, OR is $161,903.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,200.00 and $190,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Patent Associate?

A Patent Associate is a legal professional, often with a technical or scientific background, who assists in preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications. They work under the supervision of patent attorneys or agents and help clients secure protection for their inventions. Patent Associates conduct prior art searches, draft patent specifications, respond to office actions from patent offices, and may provide technical expertise in patent litigation or portfolio management. Their role is critical in ensuring that inventions are properly described and legally protected according to intellectual property laws.

What is the role of a patent associate?

A patent associate assists in preparing, drafting, and prosecuting patent applications to protect intellectual property rights. They often work closely with patent attorneys, conduct patent searches, and have a background in science or engineering, along with knowledge of patent law and patent office procedures.

How to become a patent associate?

To become a patent associate, candidates typically need a scientific or technical degree, such as in engineering or life sciences, and must pass the Patent Bar Exam to practice before the patent office. Many employers also value experience in patent prosecution, drafting, or related legal work, often requiring a law degree or technical background combined with legal training.

How much money does a patent clerk make?

A patent associate's salary varies by experience and location, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced patent attorneys or agents can earn higher salaries, especially with specialized technical knowledge and patent prosecution skills.

What is the difference between Patent Associate vs Patent Agent?

AspectPatent AssociatePatent Agent
Required CredentialsLaw degree, Patent Bar exam, technical backgroundTechnical degree, Patent Bar exam, no law degree required
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, patent law firmsPatent law firms, corporate legal departments, patent agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLegal professionals, law firms, corporationsPatent law firms, patent agencies, corporations

Patent Associates typically hold a law degree and pass the Patent Bar exam, working in legal settings to draft and prosecute patents. Patent Agents usually have a technical degree and pass the Patent Bar but do not hold a law degree, focusing on patent prosecution in law firms or patent agencies. Both roles require passing the Patent Bar and work closely with patent applications, but Patent Associates often have broader legal responsibilities.

Will patent agents be replaced by AI?

Patent associates and agents perform tasks such as patent drafting, prosecution, and legal analysis that require specialized knowledge and judgment. While AI tools can assist with prior art searches and document review, they are unlikely to fully replace the expertise and nuanced decision-making skills of patent professionals in the near future.

What are some common challenges Patent Associates face when working with inventors and research teams?

Patent Associates often encounter challenges in translating complex technical concepts from inventors and research teams into clear, legally robust patent applications. Effective communication is key, as they must bridge the gap between technical experts and legal requirements, ensuring all inventive aspects are accurately captured and protected. Additionally, managing tight deadlines and balancing multiple projects simultaneously is common, requiring strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Collaboration with inventors, attorneys, and sometimes clients is frequent, making teamwork and adaptability essential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Patent Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patent Associate, you need a solid understanding of patent law, technical expertise in a scientific or engineering discipline, and a relevant degree—often paired with passing the patent bar exam. Familiarity with patent filing systems, prior art search databases, and docketing software is typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, written communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for drafting and prosecuting patent applications. These capabilities ensure accurate, high-quality patent submissions and effective protection of clients' intellectual property.
What are the most commonly searched types of Patent jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Patent jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Patent Associate jobs in Portland, OR? For Patent Associate jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Patent Associate jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Patent Associate jobs in Portland, OR are:
Patent Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patent Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $161,903 per year, or $77.8 per hour.

2027 2L Summer Associate - Patent Litigation

Perkins Coie LLP

Portland, OR • Hybrid

$18K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Description:

AshurstPerkins Coie is accepting applications from second-year law students interested in joining the firm as a 2L Patent Litigation Summer Associate for the Summer of 2027.

How to Apply

Pleasesubmitthe following materials:

  • Resume.

  • Undergraduate, graduate (if applicable), and unofficial law school transcript.

  • Writing sample (maximum 10 pages).

  • Cover letter describing your areas of interest and geographic preferences.

If you are selected for an interview, we may also ask that you provide references (name, email, and phone). All application materials should be uploaded in PDF format.

In your application, pleaseindicateyour preferredAshurstPerkins Coie office; you may list up to two offices. Candidates will be considered for the following offices:Chicago, Madison, New York, Palo Alto, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle.

Evaluation Criteria

AshurstPerkins Coie2027 2LPatent Litigation Summer Associates will be selected based on the following criteria:

  • Law Students: Applicants must be a second-year law student in good standing pursuing the degree of Juris Doctor at an ABA-accredited law school.

  • Academic Achievement: A demonstrated record of academic achievement and excellent writing and interpersonal skills, as well as experience that will contribute to a successful career in the legal field.

  • Patent Litigation Interest: Applicants must have a demonstrated interest in practicing law in patent litigation.

  • Technical Background: Applicants are preferred to have a technical degree or scientific background, with preferred areas of study/experience in computer science, electrical engineering, physics, and/or similar areas, although all technical and scientific backgrounds may be considered.

About the Summer Associate Program

Our Summer Associate Program is the primary path to full-time associate hiring atAshurstPerkins Coie.Summer Associates receive meaningful, substantive work-research, drafting, analysis, and client-facing projects-alongside skilled attorneys and mentors. Our Summer Associates regularly attend hearings, client meetings, depositions, and deal closings, and can work on pro bono matters, as well asparticipatein professional development activities and attend social events that help build lasting relationships across the firm.

AboutAshurstPerkins Coie

AshurstPerkins CoieUSLLPis an international law firm recognized for its collaborative culture, commitment to excellence, and people-first approach.The firmhas been namedtoFortune's Best Places to Work list for 24 consecutive years, reflecting our belief that exceptional work happens in a culture of respect, growth, and inclusion.

Eligibility

All second-year students in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school are encouraged to apply.AshurstPerkins Coieis an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status, or any other identity.

Compensation and Benefits

This position is not benefits-eligible; however, paid holidays are available. In California, Illinois, New York, Oregon, and Washington State, the monthly compensation for this role is$18,750per month.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records whoresidein Los Angeles County, San Diego County, or San Francisco County will be considered for employmentin accordance withthe applicable Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act.

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