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Patent Search Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kyocera

Patent Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111K - $161K/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 ...

Kyocera

Patent Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111K - $161K/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 ...

KYOCERA International, Inc.

Patent Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111K - $161K/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 ...

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$60K

$122.7K

$153.5K

How much do patent search jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 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 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 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 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 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 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.
More about Patent Search jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Patent Search jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Patent Search jobs are:
Patent Search jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patent Search job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,735 per year, or $59 per hour.

Patent Classifier (Mechanical/Aeronautical/Civil Engineering)

Clarivate

Tempe, AZ • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

New

Job description

Join our team! We are looking for excited, inquisitiveClassification Specialists(PCS) to join our Patent Search and Innovation Intelligence Services Team! As a PCS you willdetermineappropriateapplicationclassifications in accordance withthe Cooperative Patent Classification(CPC) system and the United States Patent Classification System (USPC)through technicalknowledge, research, and automated tools.

About you - experience, education, skills, and accomplishments

  • Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field
  • Experience and/or significant course work in any of the following areas:
    • Transportation, construction, manufacturing, static structures, dynamic machines, packaging, mechanical power, transmissions, electromechanical systems, mining, molding, etc.
  • At least 6 monthsof work experience with research via work, internships, or volunteering
  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Applicants must have resided in the U.S. for the past two consecutive years

It would be great if you also had...

  • Previous experience with intellectual property
  • Ability to work independently, without excessive supervision
  • The ability to use computer systems to perform research and classification operations
  • Ability to work independently to meet defined production and quality standards

What will you be doing in this role?

  • Mastering thepatentclassificationprocess
  • Assigningclassifications in accordance withthe Cooperative Patent Classification rules and definitions
  • Classifying applicationsrelatedto specific technologies
  • Continuallyexpandingknowledge andexpertise intonew technologies
  • Workingclosely with others in ateamenvironment

About the Team

The PCS team supports the unlocking of fresh thinking and the inception of technology initiatives for our clients throughout the world. Our teams of professionals join up ideas and action and connect people with people and people with technology to ensure that individuals and organizations fulfill their potential.

Hours of Work

Monday through Friday, 40 hours/week US time zones

This is a hybrid position working 2-3 days a week in office

Must reside within a commutable distance from Ann Arbor MI, Kansas City MO, Alexandria VA, Denver CO, Philadelphia PA, or Tempe, AZ

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-LP

At Clarivate, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all qualified persons with respect to hiring, compensation, promotion, training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. We comply with applicable laws and regulations governing non-discrimination in all locations.

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