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Patent Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NetApp

IP Agent

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

This patent professional will work closely with NetApp's engineering, technical, and business organizations as an integral partner throughout the research and development process. The ideal candidate ...

Clarivate

Senior DevOps Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$139K - $178K/yr

We are looking for a SeniorDevOps Engineer to join our PISA DevOpsteam inAlexandria, VA. This is an ... Product you will be developingand supporting Derwent Patent Search and Derwent Patent Analytics ...

Clarivate Analytics

Senior DevOps Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$139K - $178K/yr

We are looking for a SeniorDevOps Engineer to join our PISA DevOpsteam inAlexandria, VA. This is an ... Product you will be developingand supporting Derwent Patent Search and Derwent Patent Analytics ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPatent Engineer JobsPatent Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Patent Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$73.4K

$151.4K

$297.4K

How much do patent engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent engineer in Virginia is $151,357.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,500.00 and $178,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a patent engineer do?

As a patent engineer, you review patent applications to help determine whether or not a patent agent should grant a patent for inventions or intellectual property. In this role, you may review a draft of the product, help research any similar existing products, and prepare additional documents and information as necessary. Despite the name, this job is more akin to being an attorney than an engineer, especially when it comes to checking for issues of copyright or patent infringement. Patent engineers should not be confused with patent agents. Patent agents generally have a senior position and make the final decision regarding application matters while patent engineers assist with research and paperwork.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patent engineer?

To thrive as a Patent Engineer, you need a strong technical background—often a degree in engineering or science—paired with knowledge of intellectual property laws and patent drafting. Familiarity with patent databases, prior art search tools, and patent management software is typically required. Excellent analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written communication skills are crucial for interpreting inventions and preparing thorough documentation. These skills ensure accurate patent filings, effective communication with inventors and attorneys, and successful protection of intellectual property.

What are the most common challenges faced by patent engineers when collaborating with inventors and R&D teams?

Patent Engineers often encounter the challenge of translating complex technical innovations into clear, legally sound patent documents. Effective collaboration with inventors and R&D teams is essential, as it requires bridging the gap between technical details and patent requirements. Patent Engineers must ask precise questions, ensure thorough disclosure, and sometimes mediate differing perspectives about what aspects of an invention should be emphasized. Building strong communication skills and a solid understanding of both technology and intellectual property law are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Patent Engineer vs Patent Agent?

AspectPatent EngineerPatent Agent
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, technical expertiseEngineering or scientific degree, patent law exam
Work EnvironmentR&D departments, patent departments in tech companiesPatent law firms, patent offices, corporate legal teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech, engineering, manufacturing sectorsLegal firms, patent agencies, corporations with patent portfolios
Common Search & ComparisonPatent Engineer vs Patent Agent

While both Patent Engineers and Patent Agents work closely with patents, Patent Engineers focus on technical analysis and patent drafting within companies, whereas Patent Agents are licensed to file and prosecute patents legally. The roles often overlap in technical background, but Patent Agents have legal authority to represent clients before patent offices.

How much do patent engineers make in the US?

Patent engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to $130,000 depending on experience, education, and location. They often hold engineering degrees and may require patent law training or certification to advance in the field.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Patent Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Patent Engineer job openings:

Patent Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patent Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,357 per year, or $72.8 per hour.

Patent Classifier (Mechanical/Aeronautical/Civil Engineering)

Clarivate Analytics

Alexandria, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Join our team! We are looking for excited, inquisitiveClassification Specialists(PCS) to join our Patent Search and Innovation Intelligence Services Team! As a PCS you willdetermineappropriateapplicationclassifications in accordance withthe Cooperative Patent Classification(CPC) system and the United States Patent Classification System (USPC)through technicalknowledge, research, and automated tools.

About you - experience, education, skills, and accomplishments

  • Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field
  • Experience and/or significant course work in any of the following areas:
    • Transportation, construction, manufacturing, static structures, dynamic machines, packaging, mechanical power, transmissions, electromechanical systems, mining, molding, etc.
  • At least 6 monthsof work experience with research via work, internships, or volunteering
  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Applicants must have resided in the U.S. for the past two consecutive years

It would be great if you also had...

  • Previous experience with intellectual property
  • Ability to work independently, without excessive supervision
  • The ability to use computer systems to perform research and classification operations
  • Ability to work independently to meet defined production and quality standards

What will you be doing in this role?

  • Mastering thepatentclassificationprocess
  • Assigningclassifications in accordance withthe Cooperative Patent Classification rules and definitions
  • Classifying applicationsrelatedto specific technologies
  • Continuallyexpandingknowledge andexpertise intonew technologies
  • Workingclosely with others in ateamenvironment

About the Team

The PCS team supports the unlocking of fresh thinking and the inception of technology initiatives for our clients throughout the world. Our teams of professionals join up ideas and action and connect people with people and people with technology to ensure that individuals and organizations fulfill their potential.

Hours of Work

Monday through Friday, 40 hours/week US time zones

This is a hybrid position working 2-3 days a week in office

Must reside within a commutable distance from Ann Arbor MI, Kansas City MO, Alexandria VA, Denver CO, Philadelphia PA, or Tempe, AZ

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-LP

At Clarivate, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons with respect to hiring, compensation, promotion, training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. We comply with applicable laws and regulations governing non-discrimination in all locations.

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