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Patent Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The patent prosecution team is presently 40+ attorneys, 8 patent agents & engineers, and 15+ paralegals. Husch Blackwell has a dedicated program manager for Patent Agents & Patent Engineers. The ...

This includes working closely with associates in engineering, manufacturing, sales and marketing, legal, and other functional areas to identify and protect the Company's IP via patents, trademarks ...

This includes working closely with associates in engineering, manufacturing, sales and marketing, legal, and other functional areas to identify and protect the Company's IP via patents, trademarks ...

This includes working closely with associates in engineering, manufacturing, sales and marketing, legal, and other functional areas to identify and protect the Company's IP via patents, trademarks ...

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Patent Engineering information

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$60K

$122.7K

$153.5K

How much do patent engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent engineering in the United States is $122,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,000.00 and $152,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 background in engineering or science, analytical thinking, and familiarity with intellectual property concepts, often supported by a relevant degree. Experience with patent databases, prior art search tools, and sometimes certifications like a Patent Agent qualification or knowledge of the USPTO/EPO systems are valuable. Exceptional attention to detail, clear technical writing, and effective communication with inventors and legal professionals are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate patent preparation, efficient collaboration, and protection of innovative technologies.

What are some common challenges Patent Engineers face when collaborating with inventors and legal teams?

Patent Engineers often navigate the complex process of translating technical innovations into clear, patentable claims, which can be challenging when communicating with both inventors and legal professionals. Balancing technical accuracy with legal requirements requires strong communication skills and attention to detail. Additionally, Patent Engineers must manage tight deadlines and multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that applications are both comprehensive and timely. Successful collaboration typically involves frequent meetings, iterative document reviews, and adapting technical language for diverse audiences.

What is patent engineering?

Patent engineering is a specialized field that combines engineering expertise with knowledge of intellectual property law. Patent engineers work to analyze inventions, prepare technical documentation for patent applications, and assist inventors or companies in protecting their innovations. They often act as a bridge between inventors and patent attorneys, ensuring that technical details are accurately described and meet legal requirements. Patent engineers may also conduct prior art searches and help evaluate the patentability of new technologies.

What is the difference between Patent Engineering vs Patent Analyst?

AspectPatent EngineeringPatent Analyst
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, patent law knowledge, technical expertiseLegal or technical background, patent law familiarity
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with engineers, patent attorneys, R&D teamsResearch, analyze patent data, prepare reports
Industry UsageTechnology, engineering firms, R&D departmentsLegal firms, patent offices, corporate IP departments

Patent Engineering and Patent Analyst roles often overlap in technical and legal knowledge but differ in focus. Patent Engineers primarily develop and draft patent applications, working closely with inventors and attorneys. Patent Analysts focus on researching patent databases, analyzing patent portfolios, and providing strategic insights. Both roles are essential in the patent process but serve distinct functions within the intellectual property landscape.

More about Patent Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Patent Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Patent Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Patent Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Patent Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Patent Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 82% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,735 per year, or $59 per hour.
Patent Agent - Software or Chemical

Patent Agent - Software or Chemical

Husch Blackwell Llp

Chicago, IL • Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Husch Blackwell LLP is a full-service litigation and business law firm with multiple locations across the United States, serving clients with domestic and international operations. At Husch Blackwell, we believe that diverse, equitable, and inclusive teams lead to better outcomes.

We have an immediate opening for a Patent Agent - Electrical or Computer with three or more (preferably 6+) years of experience. We will consider candidates for any of our offices including our virtual office, The Link.

The Patent Agent will collaborate with a team of patent agents, associates, and partners within the Technology, Manufacturing, and Transportation (TMT) Strategic Business Unit. Our Intellectual Property litigation and transactional practices are significantly expanding throughout the country. The patent prosecution team is presently 40+ attorneys, 8 patent agents & engineers, and 15+ paralegals. Husch Blackwell has a dedicated program manager for Patent Agents & Patent Engineers. The program manager focuses on the professional development of patents agents and engineers and assists with workload management.

This role focuses on preparing and prosecuting patent applications. Essential job functions include:

  • Prosecuting patent applications, including responding to Office actions and communicating with Patent Examiners.
  • Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written descriptions and figures, to protect innovative technologies.
  • Conducting and analyzing comprehensive patent searches to identify prior art and assess the patentability of inventions.
  • Staying up to date on developments in U.S. patent law and relevant technologies.
  • Meet a billable hour requirement of 1500 - 1700 hours per year.

Position Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field required. 
  • Three or more years (preferably 6+) of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications in a law firm environment.
  • Strong analytical and research skills with attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, interacting in a professional and courteous manner with clients and colleagues.
  • Ability to work both collaboratively within a team and independently with strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Registered as a Patent Agent before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
  • Artificial Intelligence or Quantum Computing experience a plus. 

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities, or requirements. The Firm will provide reasonable accommodations as necessary to allow an individual with a disability to apply for and/or perform the essential functions of a position. If you need assistance to accommodate a disability, please contact HR.

Compensation and Benefits

Employees are entitled to compensation commensurate with skill and experience. The full time base annual salary for this position is expected to range between $100,000– $170,000. Salary will vary depending on market data. Bonus opportunities are non-guaranteed, and are dependent upon individual and firm performance. Full time employees receive benefits including: medical and dental coverage; life insurance; short-term and long-term disability insurance; pre-tax flexible spending account for certain medical and dependent care expenses; an employee assistance program; Paid Time Off; paid holidays; participation in a retirement plan program after meeting eligibility requirements; and more.

Please include a cover letter, transcript and resume when applying.

Husch Blackwell is committed to retaining, recruiting, developing, and promoting talented lawyers and business professionals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We foster an engaged, diverse, and inclusive team culture of accountability and purpose that makes our Firm and our communities better.

EOE/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veterans.
Principal Applicants Only.

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