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Patent Engineer Jobs in Spring, TX (NOW HIRING)

Powell Industries

Lead R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Awarded Patents or Patent Applications preferred. * Published Trade, Peer reviewed, white paper ... engineered, fabricated, and assembled to customer specifications! Powell's culture has and will ...

McGuireWoods LLP

Technical Advisor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

$110K - $111K/yr

Conveys knowledge and teaches litigation teams about technology, products, services and patents at issue. Qualifications * Requires a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science ...

McGuireWoods LLP

Technical Advisor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

$110K - $111K/yr

Conveys knowledge and teaches litigation teams about technology, products, services and patents at issue. * Requires a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science; a Master ...

McGuireWoods LLP

Technical Advisor

Houston, TX · On-site

$117K - $150K/yr

Conveys knowledge and teaches litigation teams about technology, products, services and patents at issue. Qualifications * Requires a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science ...

Generon

Be Seen First

Manufacturing Project Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$120K - $148K/yr

It has numerous patents supporting its proprietary technologies. SUMMARY The Project Engineer works with other Customers, Designers, Salespeople, and Manufacturing personnel to manage complete ...

Quest Global

Agentic AI Engineer

Conroe, TX · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Requirements Quest Global delivers world-class end-to-end engineering solutions by leveraging ... Support intellectual property development, including publications and patents. * Participate in ...

Cnpc Usa Corporation

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Author technical reports, papers, articles, patents and presentations. * Keep abreast of novel ... Proven experience in developing or engineering HPHT downhole systems, preferably with tools ...

Apply Early

Quest Global

Agentic AI Engineer

Conroe, TX · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Requirements Quest Global delivers world-class end-to-end engineering solutions by leveraging ... Support intellectual property development, including publications and patents. * Participate in ...

Quest Global

Agentic AI Engineer

Conroe, TX · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Requirements Quest Global delivers world-class end-to-end engineering solutions by leveraging ... Support intellectual property development, including publications and patents. * Participate in ...

5 Legal

Intellectual Property Associate

Houston, TX · On-site

Patent bar registration is preferred. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in computer science or electrical engineering or a more advanced degree in biotechnology. Candidates must have strong ...

Apply Early

Enchanted Rock

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The ERock solution brings together patented technologies, advanced dual-purpose microgrid designs ... This position serves as the mechanical engineering contributor to design concepts, prototype ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPatent Engineer JobsPatent Engineer Jobs in Spring, TX

Patent Engineer information

See Spring, TX salary details

$65.9K

$135.9K

$267K

How much do patent engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent engineer in Spring, TX is $135,856.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,200.00 and $160,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace patent lawyers?

Patent engineers and patent lawyers both utilize specialized knowledge of patent law and technical fields. While AI tools can assist with prior art searches and patent drafting, they are unlikely to fully replace the nuanced legal judgment and strategic advice provided by experienced patent professionals in the foreseeable future.

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.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often depends on industry, location, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

What does a patent engineer do?

A patent engineer evaluates patent applications to determine their novelty and patentability, often reviewing technical documents and conducting prior art searches. They work closely with patent attorneys and inventors, utilizing technical knowledge and patent law understanding to support the patent filing process.

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

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 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.

More about Patent Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Patent Engineer jobs in Spring, TX? For Patent Engineer jobs in Spring, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Patent Engineer jobs in Spring, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Patent Engineer jobs in Spring, TX are:
What cities near Spring, TX are hiring for Patent Engineer jobs? Cities near Spring, TX with the most Patent Engineer job openings:
Patent Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patent Engineer job openings in Spring, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,856 per year, or $65.3 per hour.
Lead R&D Engineer

Lead R&D Engineer

Powell Industries

Houston, TX • On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Lead development and validation of new product designs from concept to full production, as well as continuation engineering on existing product lines. Learn policies and procedures, work instruction, ISO policies, Safety Rules and Regulations, and vendor products.  Perform other related duties as assigned.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Proposes new concepts for new product lines.
  • Investigates patentable concepts.
  • Proposes new complex level designs.
  • Directs and may assist in the assembly of initial prototype products.
  • Determines and specifies design parameters, validates according to standards, prepares required documentation.
  • Develops test programs for inside and outside labs.
  • Successfully plans, implements, completes, and documents projects.
  • Directs lab testing, analysis of data, creates corrective action plan.
  • Active participation and facilitation in Product Development Process.
  • Interfaces with outside vendors, consultants, and customers.
  • Understands and enforces regulatory document requirements.
  • Actively collaborates with other departments as required by project tasks.

Minimum Qualifications
  • BS Degree in Engineering or related area.
  • Minimum 8 years of experience in an Engineering role.

  • Demonstrated knowledge of switchgear and controlgear.

Preferred Qualifications

  • PE License preferred.
  • Advanced degree (MS, PhD) preferred.
  • Awarded Patents or Patent Applications preferred.
  • Published Trade, Peer reviewed, white paper preferred.

Skills, Abilities and Other Requirements

  • Advanced complex computer skills using Oracle, MS Office and MS Project.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of switchgear and controlgear.
  • Advanced knowledge of drafting/CAD skills and analysis tools.
  • Advanced knowledge of ANSI Y 14.5.
  • Advanced knowledge of materials science.
  • Advanced knowledge of metal forming, machining and finishing.
  • Advanced knowledge of casting and molding.
  • Advanced project management and organizational skills on multiple projects.
  • Advanced knowledge of regulatory standards (ANSI, IEEE, IEC)
  • Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated complex analytical and problem solving ability.
  • Create unique designs and solutions.
  • Able to lead change and respond to strategic and tactical changes.
  • Able to prioritize and manage time effectively. (self-motivated and self-managing).
  • Advanced participation in a professional society preferred.
  • Attend in house and outside training sessions.
  • Learn policies and procedures, work instruction, ISO policies, Safety Rules and Regulations, and vendor products.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

  • Temperature controlled working environment. Some outside activities may be required.

  • This position may travel out-of-town to attend training and meetings.

  • Typical office environment: may experience minor discomfort from extensive use of a computer display and keyboard; travel between buildings on campus and between campuses.

Physical Requirements 

  • Maintaining body equilibrium and agility to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, ascending or descending stairs.

  • Sitting, standing and walking for long periods of time.

Typing, punching or applying pressure to an object with fingers and palm.

More Information

This job description outlines the essential functions of the job and does not contain a comprehensive list of all possible responsibilities, tasks, and duties.

#LI-CAB

In our 75+ year history, Powell has always known that our employees are at the heart of our success. Without question, we have the most talented people in all parts of our organization. As a manufacturer, we recruit and hire experienced and knowledgeable applicants to ensure our product is engineered, fabricated, and assembled to customer specifications!
Powell’s culture has and will always be founded in our "can do" attitude. If we can imagine it, we can do it. Become a part of our story and let us help you write yours. Hard work pays off in all our teams, with opportunity for advancement and promotion without sacrificing work-life balance. Successful candidates must have a legal authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis, with only those candidates selected for interview contacted.
Powell offers comprehensive health insurance for you and your family, 401k savings, annual bonus potential, generous paid time off, professional development opportunities, company-sponsored wellness programs, and a collaborative work environment.
EOE Protected Veterans/Disability
If you need an accommodation in the hiring process, you may contact 713.378.2685. Application status inquiries will not be accepted in this manner.

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