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Patent Illustrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bakerhostetler-1

Patent Scientist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Prepare technical illustrations, figures, and supporting materials for patent applications. * Draft patent applications, including detailed specifications and claims, with a focus on technical ...

BakerHostetler

Patent Scientist

Dallas, TX

$70K - $75K/yr

Prepare technical illustrations, figures, and supporting materials for patent applications. * Draft patent applications, including detailed specifications and claims, with a focus on technical ...

BakerHostetler

Patent Scientist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Prepare technical illustrations, figures, and supporting materials for patent applications. * Draft patent applications, including detailed specifications and claims, with a focus on technical ...

IPdemons, Inc.

Presentation Designer

Ossining, NY · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

You will be creating presentations and demonstratives for patent litigation. You will be working ... PowerPoint, Photoshop, Illustrator. 2D and 3D animation software a plus. We offer competitive ...

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Patent Illustrator information

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$152.7K

$300K

How much do patent illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent illustrator in the United States is $152,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patent illustrator?

A Patent Illustrator creates detailed, accurate technical drawings that visually represent an invention for patent applications. These illustrations must meet the strict guidelines of patent offices, such as the USPTO or EPO, ensuring clarity and compliance. The job requires a strong understanding of design software, technical drawing principles, and patent regulations. Patent Illustrators work closely with inventors and patent attorneys to effectively communicate an invention’s unique features.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a patent illustrator?

To thrive as a Patent Illustrator, you need strong drafting skills, a keen eye for detail, and familiarity with patent law requirements, typically backed by experience or specialized training in technical illustration. Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software like AutoCAD or Adobe Illustrator is commonly required, and knowledge of Patent Office rules or certification can be advantageous. Effective communication, time management, and the ability to interpret complex technical concepts are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial to create accurate, legally compliant drawings that clearly convey innovative ideas and withstand patent examination.

What are common challenges faced by patent illustrators in their day-to-day work?

Patent Illustrators often face the challenge of translating intricate concepts or inventions into clear, precise drawings that meet strict patent office guidelines. It requires careful coordination with inventors, engineers, and patent attorneys to ensure all necessary details are accurately represented and legally defensible. Deadlines can be tight, especially when preparing illustrations for multiple patent applications at once. Staying updated with evolving patent regulations and mastering new illustration technologies are also important aspects of the job. However, these challenges make the role dynamic and offer ongoing opportunities to deepen both technical and artistic expertise.

How much does a patent illustrator make?

Patent illustrators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and complexity of work. Skilled illustrators with proficiency in CAD software and patent office standards may earn higher salaries or freelance rates.

How to become a patent illustrator?

To become a patent illustrator, you typically need a strong background in art or technical drawing, often with a degree or certification in illustration, engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software and knowledge of patent drawing standards are essential, and building a portfolio of technical illustrations can help demonstrate your skills to employers or patent offices.
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Patent Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patent Illustrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $152,666 per year, or $73.4 per hour.

Patent Prosecution Assistant (hybrid)

Merchant and Gould PC

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

About the job
Merchant & Gould has been a leader in intellectual property law for more than 100 years. We are recognized as one of the most active filers of patents in the country, and are consistently rated among the top patent, copyright and trademark firms. We currently have an opportunity for a patent prosecution assistant. The salary range for the position is $55,000-$65,000, based years of experience.
Summary of Position (hybrid):
The Patent Prosecution Assistant plays a key role in supporting the firm's IDS segment, a resource responsible for managing complex IP matters and ensuring the accurate preparation and filing of Information Disclosure Statements (IDS). This role focuses on maintaining accurate IDS records and assisting with USPTO submissions. In addition, the assistant provides support in general patent prosecution.
IDS Specialist Duties:
  • Prepare and file IDS forms and ensure correct formatting of references in compliance with USPTO rules. Track and compile prior art references (patents, patent applications, and non-patent literature) cited in related cases across U.S. and foreign patent families.
  • Maintain and update IDS reference databases or tracking sheets to ensure accurate recordkeeping.
  • Coordinate with legal assistants and attorneys to verify citation accuracy and relevance before submission.
  • Assist with uploading and submitting IDS documents via USPTO EFS-Web or Patent Center.
  • Fully adhere to firm confidentiality standards to include, but not limited to: attorney client correspondence and communications.
  • Assist with special tasks or duties as requested by manager.
  • Adhere to internal timetable for handling and clearing the department docket.
  • Prepare, review and edit billing invoices
  • Save all communications in the appropriate document management system.
  • Assist with management of IDS inbox for large clients.
  • Forwarding IDS Instructions to outside vendor.
  • Serve as a mediator with outside vendor.
  • Address time-sensitive IDS action items.
  • Monitor docket for an urgent IDS deadline for the matter

General Patent Prosecution Support:
  • Assist legal assistants with the preparation and review of routine U.S. and foreign filing documents and correspondence.
  • Organize and maintain files in accordance with firm and client guidelines.
  • Retrieve documents and filings from the USPTO, WIPO, EPO, and other patent authority databases.
  • Track key deadlines and coordinate with legal assistants to ensure timely filing and compliance.
  • Help prepare materials for client reporting, billing entries, and internal audits.
  • Support special projects and general administrative needs within the patent prosecution group.

Other Requirements:
  • Additional responsibilities within the Drafting Department as a Patent Illustrator (Drafter) may be assigned based on workload and priorities determined by manager.
  • Creates patent drawings from sketches, instructions, or CAD files which are to scale and easy to interpret. Drawings must meet the Patent Office specifications.
  • Communicate with attorneys and staff to determine client needs and application deadlines.

Skills and Abilities Required:
  • 1-2 years of administrative experience in a legal or IP-related role.
  • Familiarity with USPTO forms, filing procedures, and IDS requirements strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with IP management systems.
  • Excellent attention to detail and data accuracy.
  • Strong organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and meet critical deadlines.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Willingness to learn new skills/software as needed.
  • Position may require more than 37.5 hours per week to perform the essential functions of the position.
  • Regular attendance at work.

We are equally committed to providing competitive, affordable health and wellness benefits to help take care of yourself and your family, including: a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package that includes employee medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability, 401(k) match, and ten firm holidays.
To be considered, please apply online at Career Opportunities (merchantgould.com). You will need to provide a resume and professional references.
Merchant & Gould provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. We welcome candidates with disabilities. If you need any accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please contact our Human Resources Department at 1-612-332-5300.

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