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Patent Paralegal Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Patent Paralegal

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$42.86 - $64.28/hr

Join Fish's team in our fast-paced Practice Systems Department as a Patent Paralegal . Internal applicants: apply via UKG Pro by navigating to Myself > My Company> View opportunities. How Will You ...

We are currently seeking an IP Patent Paralegal to join our collaborative Intellectual Property team and support attorneys on sophisticated patent prosecution matters in a fast‑paced ...

Role Overview The Patent Paralegal II will assist the IP Operations team with administrative tasks, including preparation of filings, managing deadlines, and drafting related correspondence needed ...

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Lawyers on Demand, a Consilio Company, is currently seeking a contract patent paralegal to support one of our law firm clients on a hybrid assignment. Start: ASAP once interviewed and selected Pay ...

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Role Overview The Patent Paralegal I will be responsible for assisting attorneys, secretaries, and other legal staff with preparation of basic legal documents, proofreading and editing documents ...

Summary The Senior Paralegal - Patent Litigation, working in collaboration with and in support of the firm's strategic initiatives, under the supervision of attorneys, performs a range of substantive ...

Stinson's patent agents procure patent protection for its clients. The major clients that we advise ... Delegate effectively and as appropriate with Paralegals or Legal Administrative Assistants. * Meet ...

Stinson's patent agents procure patent protection for its clients. The major clients that we advise ... Delegate effectively and as appropriate with Paralegals or Legal Administrative Assistants. * Meet ...

Stinson's patent agents procure patent protection for its clients. The major clients that we advise ... Delegate effectively and as appropriate with Paralegals or Legal Administrative Assistants. * Meet ...

Stinson's patent agents procure patent protection for its clients. The major clients that we advise ... Delegate effectively and as appropriate with Paralegals or Legal Administrative Assistants. * Meet ...

Stinson's patent agents procure patent protection for its clients. The major clients that we advise ... Delegate effectively and as appropriate with Paralegals or Legal Administrative Assistants. * Meet ...

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Patent Paralegal information

See Reston, VA salary details

$43.2K

$96.6K

$133.7K

How much do patent paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent paralegal in Reston, VA is $96,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patent paralegal?

Patent paralegals are specialized legal professionals who assist patent attorneys and agents with the preparation, filing, and management of patent applications. They help with organizing documentation, conducting patent searches, tracking deadlines, and communicating with clients and patent offices. Their work is crucial in ensuring that patent filings are accurate, timely, and comply with legal requirements. Patent paralegals often work in law firms, corporations, or government agencies that handle intellectual property matters.

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

To thrive as a Patent Paralegal, you need a strong understanding of intellectual property law, attention to detail, and familiarity with patent prosecution procedures, often supported by a paralegal certificate or relevant experience. Proficiency in patent management systems (such as USPTO PAIR or EFS-Web) and docketing software is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, effective written and verbal communication, and the ability to prioritize tasks make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure the accuracy and efficiency of patent filings and compliance with strict legal deadlines, which are crucial for protecting clients’ intellectual property.

What are some common challenges a patent paralegal may face when managing multiple patent filings simultaneously?

Patent Paralegals often juggle a high volume of patent applications, each with strict deadlines and complex documentation requirements. Staying organized and prioritizing tasks is crucial, as missing a deadline can have significant legal and financial consequences for clients. They must also keep up with frequent changes in patent laws and filing procedures across different jurisdictions. Strong communication and attention to detail are essential, as the role involves coordinating with attorneys, inventors, and international agents to ensure all filings are accurate and timely.

What is the difference between Patent Paralegal vs Patent Agent?

AspectPatent ParalegalPatent Agent
CredentialsTypically requires paralegal certification or relevant legal experienceMust pass the Patent Bar exam and be registered with the USPTO
Work EnvironmentSupports attorneys in patent filings, research, and document preparationProsecutes patent applications, drafts claims, and communicates with USPTO
Industry UsageCommonly employed in law firms and corporate legal departmentsLicensed professionals authorized to represent clients before the USPTO

The main difference is that a Patent Paralegal assists with patent documentation and administrative tasks, while a Patent Agent is qualified to prosecute patents and communicate directly with the USPTO. Patent Agents have passed the Patent Bar exam, whereas Patent Paralegals typically have legal or paralegal certifications. Both roles are essential in the patent process but differ in legal authority and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Paralegal jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Patent Paralegal jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Patent Paralegal jobs in Reston, VA?

For Patent Paralegal jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Patent Paralegal jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Patent Paralegal jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Patent Paralegal jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Patent Paralegal job openings:

Infographic showing various Patent Paralegal job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 16% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,569 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Patent Paralegal

Washington, DC • Hybrid

Fish & Richardson
501 - 1,000 employees

$42.86 - $64.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Fish & Richardson, the premier global intellectual property law firm, is trusted by the world’s most innovative and influential companies. Fish was established in 1878, and now has more than 400 attorneys and technology specialists in the U.S., Europe, and China. Our success is rooted in our creative and inclusive culture, which values the diversity of people, experiences, and perspectives. Join Fish’s team in our fast-paced Practice Systems Department as a Patent Paralegal.

Internal applicants: apply via UKG Pro by navigating to Myself > My Company> View opportunities.

How Will You Make a Difference?

  • Accurately prepare, obtain, and file documents related to all phases of patent prosecution, including, but not limited to, requests for client instructions; assignments; information disclosure statements; and responses to office actions.
  • Maintain and manage a prosecution docket and follow up on items to ensure due dates and deadlines are met.
  • Account for all hours worked on a daily basis by entering time into the firm’s timekeeping system to achieve the billable goal as established by practice management.

    What Will You Bring to the Table?

    • Bachelor’s degree or Paralegal Certificate from an ABA (American Bar Association) recognized program or equivalent experience in legal support.
    • 5+ years experience as a Patent Paralegal with U.S. prosecution knowledge.
    • U.S. prosecution experience is required; Foreign experience is a plus but not required.
    • Ability to meet the firm’s billing requirement of 1300 hours per year.
    • Willingness to assist other team members when needed and ability to work well within a team-oriented environment.
    • Preparation and filing of information disclosure statements and formal documents experience (i.e., assignments, declarations, office action shells, etc.) is preferred.
    • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
    • Excellent interpersonal skills.
      • Ability to work in the office as needed for training and collaboration, for a minimum of 3 days per month.

      Why Fish?

      When you join our team, we offer:

      • Competitive pay and discretionary bonus opportunities along with a rich benefits package, including comprehensive medical and dental coverage, generous paid time off, and tuition reimbursement
      • Award-winning retirement and profit sharing plans with employer contribution
      • A family-friendly atmosphere with back-up child care, as well as health and wellness initiatives
      • A positive culture ranked as one of the best in the country in Vault’s 2026 law firm survey
      • The pay range for this position varies by geographic market. Final compensation will be based on a variety of factors including education, experience, skills, professional background, overall qualifications, and location
          • In Chicago and Minneapolis, the estimated starting pay range is $34.87 - $52.30 per hour (based on a 37.5-hour workweek), which is equivalent to $68,000- $102,000 annually.
          • In Boston and San Diego, the estimated starting pay range is $40.11 - $59.89 per hour (based on a 35-hour workweek), which is equivalent to $73,000 - $109,000 annually.
          • In New York and Silicon Valley, the estimated starting pay range is $42.86 - $64.28 per hour (based on a 35-hour workweek), which is equivalent to $78,000 - $117,000 annually.
          • In Washington DC, the estimated starting pay range is $40.00 - $60.00 per hour (based on a 37.5-hour workweek), which is equivalent to $78,000 - $117,000 annually.

      Our Commitment to Diversity

      As a firm that serves the world’s greatest visionaries, we know that creativity and innovation are the result of seeing the world from multiple different perspectives. Having a diverse team enhances the quality of legal services we provide to our clients, sustains our standing as a premier IP law firm, and strengthens the fabric of our firm. 

      #LI-Hybrid

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