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Patent Search Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patent Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111.35K - $161.24K/yr

Familiarity with docketing systems and patent search tools. Excellent academic credentials and references. Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality. Strong problem-solving skills. Ability ...

Patent Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111.35K - $161.24K/yr

Familiarity with docketing systems and patent search tools. Excellent academic credentials and references. Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality. Strong problem-solving skills. Ability ...

SourcePro Search is conducting a search for an experienced Patent Agent with patent prosecution experience to join our client's Life Sciences Patent Counseling and Prosecution Group. This is a hybrid ...

Patent Engineer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$80K - $130K/yr

Patent Engineer Banner Witcoff is a leader in intellectual property law for more than 100 years. We ... Instructions to Recruiting Agencies and Search Firms Banner Witcoff will not accept unsolicited ...

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Patent Search information

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$60K

$122.7K

$153.5K

How much do patent search jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent search 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 Patent Search Jobs?

Patent search jobs are positions in which you determine the existence of intellectual property rights before investing in the creation of a similar product. Although it’s an involved process, it is essential to avoid legal issues down the road. A patent application on file is public information and searchable on the United States Patent and Trademark Office website. Your duties start with searching on this site, and your other responsibilities include investigating trademarks linked to related items. You compile your results and submit a report on your findings. Most patent search jobs are with law firms that deal with intellectual property.

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

To thrive as a Patent Searcher, you need a solid understanding of intellectual property law, technical expertise in a relevant field (such as engineering or science), and experience with patent databases. Familiarity with tools like PatBase, Espacenet, and the USPTO database, along with certifications such as Certified Patent Searcher, are often required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written communication skills help you interpret complex technical documents and present clear findings. These skills ensure accurate, comprehensive searches that help clients avoid infringement and support successful patent applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in patent search roles, and how can they be addressed?

One of the main challenges in patent search roles is efficiently navigating vast and complex patent databases to identify relevant prior art, while ensuring accuracy and thoroughness. Patent searchers must stay updated on evolving technologies and classification systems, which can require continuous learning. Collaboration with inventors, patent attorneys, and R&D teams is often necessary to clarify technical concepts and search objectives. To address these challenges, professionals often rely on advanced search tools, ongoing training, and clear communication with stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and precise results.

What is a patent search?

A patent search is a comprehensive review of existing patents and published patent applications to determine whether an invention or idea is novel and non-obvious. This process helps inventors and companies identify prior art that may affect the patentability of their invention. Conducting a patent search can also prevent potential infringement issues and provide valuable insights into competitors' activities. Professional patent searches are often conducted before filing a patent application to increase the likelihood of approval.

What is the difference between Patent Search vs Patent Examiner?

AspectPatent SearchPatent Examiner
Required CredentialsTypically requires a background in law, engineering, or science; strong research skillsRequires a law degree or technical background; familiarity with patent laws and examination procedures
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often independent or in teams, performed in offices or remotelyGovernment agency setting, reviewing patent applications, collaborating with inventors and attorneys
Industry UsageUsed by law firms, patent offices, R&D departments for prior art searchesEmployed by patent offices like USPTO, EPO for patent examination and approval

While both roles involve understanding patents, Patent Search focuses on researching existing patents and prior art, whereas Patent Examiners evaluate patent applications for approval. Both require strong research skills and knowledge of patent laws, but their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Patent Search jobs? Cities with the most Patent Search job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Search jobs? The most popular types of Patent Search jobs are:
What states have the most Patent Search jobs? States with the most job openings for Patent Search jobs include:
Infographic showing various Patent Search job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, and 94% Full Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, 22% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,735 per year, or $59 per hour.

Patent Classifier I (Part-Time) with Security Clearance

Serco Inc.

Chicago, IL

$47K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Position Description & Qualifications Position Description & Qualifications Looking for a career where you can make a difference every day? Discover this great opportunity to be a part of a dynamic team as a Part-Time Patent Classifier. Serco's Intellectual Property (IP) Services Program performs patent related classification analysis for the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and the European Patent Office (EPO), as well as performing similar analysis and patent search for law firms and inventors.

This is a great opportunity for a candidate who is seeking a team driven environment, but is also a strong, independent worker. The work performed by Serco Patent Classifiers supports a contract with the USPTO as well as related commercial patent search and analysis services. As a Patent Classifier, you will: * Be expected to determine appropriate classifications in accordance with both U.S.

and international patent classification systems through technical knowledge, research, and automated tools. * Have exceptional analytical skills and attention to detail. * Have strong reading comprehension skills and written communication skills.

* Have the ability to use Microsoft Office Word and Excel, and work on a computer workstation 8 hours per day. * Learn patent classification, search, and examination processes. * Apply knowledge of classification processes to assign U.S.

Patent Classification (USPC) and Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) codes to complex technical subject matter. * Apply knowledge of classification, search, and examination processes to provide analysis and prepare written reports for patent attorneys and others in the IP industry. * Use automated systems to perform research and classification operations.

* Function in a production-based environment with emphasis on operating efficiently and accurately at a significant pace. * Work independently with minimal supervision. * Work closely with others in a team environment.

* Participate in on-going program training to expand knowledge in additional technical fields and patent services. In compliance with state and local laws regarding pay transparency, the target salary is $47,000; however, Serco considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills. To be successful in this role, you will have: * Bachelor's degree from an accredited university.

* 0-2 years experience. * 2 years of additional work experience required in lieu of degree. * Ability to think critically is vital to this role.

* Understanding of technical concepts and/or Computer Science. * 25% travel may be required. * Must be able to obtain and/or maintain a Public Trust Security Clearance.

If you are interested in supporting and working with USPTO and a passionate Serco team- then submit your application now for immediate consideration. It only takes a few minutes and could change your career! Company Overview Serco Inc.

(Serco) is the Americas division of Serco Group, plc. In North America, Serco's 9,000+ employees strive to make an impact every day across 100+ sites in the areas of Defense, Citizen Services, and Transportation. We help our clients deliver vital services more efficiently while increasing the satisfaction of their end customers.

Serco serves every branch of the U.S. military, numerous U.S. Federal civilian agencies, the Intelligence Community, the Canadian government, state, provincial and local governments, and commercial clients.

While your place may look a little different depending on your role, we know you will find yours here. Wherever you work and whatever you do, we invite you to discover your place in our world. Serco is a place you can count on and where you can make an impact because every contribution matters.

To review Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/what-we-offer . If you require an accommodation with the application process please email: or call the HR Service Desk at 800-628-6458, option 1. Please note, due to EEOC/OFCCP compliance, Serco is unable to accept resumes by email.

Candidates may be asked to present proof of identify during the selection process. If requested, this will require presentation of a government-issued I.D. (with photo) with name and address that match the information entered on the application.

Serco will not take possession of or retain/store the information provided as proof of identity. For more information on how Serco uses your information, please see our Applicant Privacy Policy and Notice. Serco does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies without being a contracted approved vendor.

All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Serco and will not be obligated to pay a placement or contract fee. If you are interested in becoming an approved vendor at Serco, please email . Serco is an equal opportunity employer.

We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. Pay Transparency Our Total Rewards package includes competitive pay, performance-based incentives, and benefits that promote well-being and work-life balance-so you can thrive both professionally and personally. Eligible employees also gain access to a wide range of benefits from comprehensive health coverage and health savings accounts to retirement plans, life and disability insurance, and time-off programs that support work-life balance.

Program availability may vary based on factors such as contract type, location, hire date, and applicable collective bargaining agreements. Salary range: The range for this position can be found at the top of this posting. This range is provided as a general guideline and represents a good faith estimate across all experience levels.

Actual base salary will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the scope of the role, relevant experience, job-related knowledge, education and training, key skills, and geographic market considerations. For roles available in multiple states, the range may vary to reflect differences in local labor markets. In addition to base salary, eligible positions may include other forms of compensation such as annual bonuses or long-term incentive opportunities.

Benefits - Comprehensible benefits for full-time employees (part-time employees receive a limited package tailored to their role): * Medical, dental, and vision insurance * Robust vacation and sick leave benefits, and flexible work arrangements where permitted by role or contract * 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds * Tuition reimbursement program * Life insurance and disability coverage * Optional coverages that can be purchased, including pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection * Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits * Employee Assistance Plan To review all Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/about-us . Serco complies with all applicable state and local leave laws, including providing time off under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act for eligible Colorado residents, in alignment with our policies and benefit plans. The application window for this position is for no more than 60 days.

We encourage candidates to apply promptly after the posting date, as the position may close earlier if filled or if the application volume exceeds expectations. Please submit applications exclusively through Serco's external (or internal) career site. If an applicant has any concerns with job posting compliance, please send an email to: .