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Patent Examiner Computer Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patent Agent

Minneapolis, MN · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Oakland, CA · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Austin, TX · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Houston, TX · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Washington, DC · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Denver, CO · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Chicago, IL · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Kansas City, MO · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Chattanooga, TN · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Nashville, TN · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Omaha, NE · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Springfield, MO · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Jefferson City, MO · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Saint Louis, MO · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Boston, MA · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Milwaukee, WI · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

Patent Agent

Madison, WI · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

... Patent Examiners. * Drafting high-quality patent applications, including detailed written ... Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer or Electrical Engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

Patent Examiner Computer Science information

See salary details

$60K

$122.7K

$153.5K

How much do patent examiner computer science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent examiner computer science 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 Examiner in Computer Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patent Examiner in Computer Science, you need a strong background in computer science or engineering, analytical skills, and at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with patent databases, classification systems, and legal research tools is typically required, along with training in patent law and examination procedures. Strong written communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking help distinguish top performers in evaluating complex technical disclosures. These skills are essential for accurately assessing patent applications, ensuring legal compliance, and supporting innovation through the intellectual property system.

What does a Patent Examiner in Computer Science do?

A Patent Examiner in Computer Science reviews patent applications related to software, algorithms, and computer-related inventions. Their main responsibility is to determine whether an invention is new, useful, and non-obvious by searching prior art and analyzing technical documents. They communicate with applicants to clarify claims and may suggest amendments to ensure compliance with patent laws. This role requires a strong understanding of computer science concepts and attention to detail.

What are some common challenges faced by Patent Examiners in the field of Computer Science, and how can new examiners effectively address them?

Patent Examiners specializing in Computer Science often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving technologies and accurately assessing the novelty of complex software inventions. New examiners can address these challenges by actively participating in ongoing training, leveraging internal knowledge databases, and collaborating with senior colleagues for guidance on prior art searches. Additionally, effective time management and clear communication with applicants are key to handling the workload and ensuring high-quality examinations.

What is the difference between Patent Examiner Computer Science vs Patent Agent?

AspectPatent Examiner Computer SciencePatent Agent
Required CredentialsPatent Bar, Bachelor's in CS or related fieldPatent Bar, Bachelor's or higher in CS or engineering
Work EnvironmentGovernment agency, exam room, researchLaw firm or corporate, client interactions, patent drafting
Industry UsagePatent Office, governmentLegal and patent consulting firms, corporations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in patent examinationLegal patent process, patent application preparation

The main difference between a Patent Examiner Computer Science and a Patent Agent lies in their roles and work environments. Patent Examiners review patent applications within government agencies, focusing on technical evaluation, while Patent Agents actively prepare and file patent applications in legal settings. Both require a patent bar and a background in computer science, but their daily tasks and employer types differ significantly.

More about Patent Examiner Computer Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Patent Examiner Computer Science jobs? Cities with the most Patent Examiner Computer Science job openings:
What states have the most Patent Examiner Computer Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Patent Examiner Computer Science jobs include:
Infographic showing various Patent Examiner Computer Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,735 per year, or $59 per hour.

Electrical Engineering/Computer Science/Patent Agent or Associate Attorney

Pernini Legal, LLC

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$140K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

New


Job description

PATENT AGENT - ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING & COMPUTER SCIENCE
Multiple Locations Available...full list at the bottom of this description.
Our client, a prestigious AmLaw 100 national law firm, is seeking a skilled and motivated Patent Agent to join their Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Patent Prosecution Practice Group. This is an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies while collaborating with a team of experienced attorneys and professionals.
Candidate Profile:
  • Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or Physics.
  • USPTO Admission is required.
  • 3+ years of relevant patent preparation and prosecution experience.
  • Strong technical background with the ability to quickly grasp complex innovations.
  • Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to draft high-quality patent applications.
  • Prior experience working in a law firm, engineering, or industry setting.

Preferred Experience:
  • Patent prosecution in electrical engineering or software-related technologies;
  • Data science/artificial intelligence (AI)/network security/networking technologies;
  • Machine learning/AI (in addition to data science) and hardware security.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and prosecute patent applications before the USPTO.
  • Conduct patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses.
  • Collaborate with inventors and clients to develop and protect cutting-edge technologies.
  • Assist in patent portfolio management and strategy development.

Why Join Us?
This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking intellectual property practice where you will work on high-tech innovations in a supportive, collaborative environment. The firm is committed to professional development and provides mentorship, training, and career growth opportunities.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive Compensation: Includes an annual salary range of $110,000-$190,000, depending on experience and market factors, in addition to eligibility for a discretionary bonus.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) plan; paid time off; parental leave; commuter benefits; FSA/HSA; and emergency child and elder care.
  • Additional Perks: Include a two-week-long paid associate sabbatical after five years of employment, wellness and behavioral health services; an employee assistance program; and a mindful return support program for parents returning from parental leave.

Application Requirements:
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, undergraduate transcript, graduate transcript as applicable, and a writing sample (preferably a patent application).
Locations (DC or San Francisco preferred):
AZ (Phoenix)
CA (Los Angeles, San Francisco)
CO (Denver)
DC (Washicngton)
GA (Atlanta)
MO (St. Louis, Kansas City)
TX (Houston)
WA (Seattle)
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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