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Patent In Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Patent Agent Ready to dive into groundbreaking projects alongside industry leaders? Shumaker amp ... A Master's or Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or electrical ...

Patent Attorney

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

The Patent Attorney specializes in organic chemistry or a related scientific field. The Patent Attorney will assist clients with intellectual property management and protection, including the ...

Patent Attorney (CS & EE)

MN · On-site +1

$135K - $240K/yr

Patent Attorney (CS and EE) Shumaker amp; Sieffert is looking for experienced patent attorneys who ... You can work in our Woodbury, Minnesota office, but remote positions are also available if that ...

Patent Admin

Plymouth, MN

$33.35 - $66.75/hr

Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries. Working at Abbott At Abbott, you ... The Patent Admin reports to an Attorney. What You'll Work On * Assists with legal services for ...

Patent Paralegal

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$41.21 - $64.29/hr

Join Fish's t eam in our fast-paced Practice Systems Department as a Patent Paralegal . How Will You Make a Difference? * Accurately prepare, obtain, and file documents related to all phases of ...

Patent Admin

Plymouth, MN

$33.35 - $66.75/hr

Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries. Working at Abbott At Abbott, you ... The Patent Admin reports to an Attorney. What You'll Work On * Assists with legal services for ...

Patent Admin

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$33.35 - $66.75/hr

Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries. Working at Abbott At Abbott, you ... The Patent Admin reports to an Attorney. What You'll Work On * Assists with legal services for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Patent In information

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

To thrive as a Patent Investigator, you need a strong background in science or engineering, analytical research skills, and familiarity with intellectual property law, often supported by a relevant degree. Experience with patent databases, search tools like USPTO or EPO systems, and sometimes certifications such as Registered Patent Agent are highly valuable. Exceptional attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear written communication help you excel in evaluating technical documents and reporting findings. These skills are crucial to accurately assess patent validity and provide actionable insights for legal and innovation strategies.

What are some common challenges faced by Patent In professionals when working with inventors and legal teams?

Patent In professionals often navigate challenges such as translating complex technical concepts from inventors into detailed legal language that meets patent office requirements. They must work closely with both inventors and legal teams to ensure the patent applications are thorough and accurate, often under tight deadlines. Effective communication and attention to detail are key, as misunderstandings can lead to delays or rejections. Additionally, staying updated on changing patent laws and industry standards is crucial to successfully securing intellectual property rights.

What are Patent Investigators?

Patent Investigators are professionals who conduct research to determine whether an invention is new and eligible for patent protection. They analyze existing patents and related technical literature to identify any prior art that might affect the patentability of an invention. Their work helps inventors, organizations, and legal teams understand if a patent can be granted or if a patent is being infringed. They may also assist in patent litigation and due diligence processes.

What is the difference between Patent In vs Patent Examiner?

AspectPatent InPatent Examiner
Required CredentialsPatent law knowledge, technical background, patent law degree or technical degreeTechnical background, law knowledge optional but beneficial, patent law training provided
Work EnvironmentLegal offices, patent firms, corporate legal departmentsPatent offices, government agencies, patent examination units
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporations, patent agenciesGovernment patent offices, patent agencies

Patent In professionals typically work in legal or corporate settings, focusing on patent applications and legal processes, while Patent Examiners work within government patent offices, reviewing patent applications for novelty and compliance. Both roles require technical knowledge, but Patent In often emphasizes legal expertise, whereas Patent Examiners focus on technical assessment within the patent system.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Patent In jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Patent In job openings:

Patent Prosecution Assistant (hybrid)

Merchant and Gould PC

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 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.