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Patent Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Unified Patents is again growing its legal department, and seeks to add an experienced, registered patent attorney. Applicants should have at least 5 years of law firm or other relevant experience ...

Unified Patents is again growing its legal department, and seeks to add an experienced, registered patent attorney. Applicants should have at least 5 years of law firm or other relevant experience ...

Unified Patents is again growing its legal department, and seeks to add an experienced, registered patent attorney. Applicants should have at least 5 years of law firm or other relevant experience ...

Patent Agent

Washington, DC · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

The Patent Agent will collaborate with a team of patent agents, associates, and partners within the Technology, Manufacturing, and Transportation (TMT) Strategic Business Unit. Our Intellectual ...

Be Seen First

Purpose Statement: Assist with various tasks related to patent prosecution including all aspects of preparation and prosecution of patent applications, and research and analysis of technologies.

Patent Agent

Washington, DC · Remote

$100K - $170K/yr

The Patent Agent will collaborate with a team of patent agents, associates, and partners within the Technology, Manufacturing, and Transportation (TMT) Strategic Business Unit. Our Intellectual ...

Patent Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$117K - $216K/yr

Patent Engineer About Ofinno: Ofinno is a leading research and development lab headquartered in Reston, Virginia, specializing in advancing communication and media standards. Our team's innovative ...

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 are the trusted IP partner of choice for organizations around the world. We provide sound legal ...

Patent Attorney Mid-level Patent Attorney - Post-Grant Proceedings We are a boutique intellectual property law firm based in Washington, D.C., built at the intersection of science and legal strategy ...

Patent Attorney Mid-level Patent Attorney - Post-Grant Proceedings We are a boutique intellectual property law firm based in Washington, D.C., built at the intersection of science and legal strategy ...

Junior Patent Attorney Junior Patent Attorney - Chemistry / Life Sciences We are a boutique intellectual property law firm based in Washington, D.C., built at the intersection of science and legal ...

Patent Agent - Chemistry

Washington, DC · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Chemical Patent Agent - Organic Chemistry / Small Molecules Location: Washington, DC Compensation: $140,000-$200,000 A nationally recognized intellectual property law firm is seeking a registered ...

New

Patent Agent

Washington, DC · Remote

$150K - $225K/yr

National law firm has an immediate opening for a Patent Agent who will work with the Intellectual Property team. We require at least four years of experience drafting and prosecuting patent ...

Patent Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Patent Engineer Banner Witcoff is a leader in intellectual property law for more than 100 years. We are the trusted IP partner of choice for organizations around the world. We provide sound legal ...

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in patent preparation and prosecution, along with the ability to work across a broad range of electrical, computer, and software technologies. This ...

Junior Patent Attorney Junior Patent Attorney - Chemistry / Life Sciences We are a boutique intellectual property law firm based in Washington, D.C., built at the intersection of science and legal ...

EE/CS Patent Agent

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$140K - $180K/yr

S. patent applications involving complex electrical, computer and software technologies * Conduct invention disclosure meetings and work directly with inventors and clients * Prepare responses to ...

Patent Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$117K - $216K/yr

Patent Engineer About Ofinno: Ofinno is a leading research and development lab headquartered in Reston, Virginia, specializing in advancing communication and media standards. Our team's innovative ...

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Patent information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$77.3K

$159.5K

$313.4K

How much do patent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for patent in Springfield, VA is $159,464.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $188,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Patent Jobs?

Patent jobs involve helping people secure or defend intellectual property rights. A patent attorney helps with the application process for a patent or trademark. The duties of a patent paralegal include working to support the attorney by performing research and preparing paperwork. Patent analysts or patent agents ensure clients have grounds for filing a patent application or seeking intellectual property licenses. These professionals are often experts in the field applicable to the property in question, and thoroughly understand the design or concept of the item. Patent firms may have technical writers whose responsibilities involve working to write the patent.

Are patent agents in high demand?

Patent agents are in high demand due to the increasing number of patent applications and the need for specialized legal and technical expertise. They often work in law firms, corporations, or government agencies, and strong knowledge of patent law and technical fields enhances job prospects.

Is patent law a good career?

A career in patent law involves working with intellectual property rights, often requiring a background in science or engineering and passing the patent bar exam. It offers opportunities in law firms, corporations, and government agencies, with a focus on legal analysis, technical understanding, and client advising. The field can be financially rewarding and provides a stable career path for those with relevant expertise.

What is the difference between Patent vs Patent Examiner?

AspectPatentPatent Examiner
Required CredentialsTypically requires a technical degree, often in engineering or science, and knowledge of patent lawRequires a technical degree and familiarity with patent laws; may need legal or patent-specific training
Work EnvironmentResearch and development, innovation-focused, often in private companies or law firmsGovernment agency (USPTO), examining patent applications, working in an office setting
Industry UsageUsed across industries to protect inventions and intellectual propertyPrimarily within patent offices and legal settings to evaluate patent applications

While both roles involve patents, a Patent is an intellectual property right granted for an invention, whereas a Patent Examiner reviews patent applications to determine their eligibility. The Patent holder focuses on creating and securing patent rights, while the Patent Examiner works within a government agency to assess and approve these rights.

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

To thrive as a Patent Attorney, you need a strong background in law and a relevant technical or scientific field, typically supported by a law degree, state bar admission, and registration with the patent office (such as the USPTO). Familiarity with patent databases, intellectual property management systems, and patent drafting software is essential. Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding patent attorneys apart. These skills are crucial for accurately protecting intellectual property, navigating complex legal requirements, and effectively representing clients.

Will AI replace patent lawyers?

Patent lawyers are responsible for drafting, filing, and prosecuting patent applications, tasks that require legal expertise and understanding of complex technical details. While AI tools can assist with prior art searches and document review, they are unlikely to fully replace patent lawyers due to the need for legal judgment, strategic advice, and client interaction. Human oversight remains essential in patent law practice.

What are some common challenges faced by patent professionals in managing multiple cases simultaneously?

Patent professionals often handle a high volume of cases at different stages, which requires excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Balancing tight deadlines for filings, responding to office actions, and coordinating with inventors or clients can be demanding. Effective communication and prioritization are key to ensuring that each case receives the necessary focus and that critical deadlines are met. Leveraging docketing systems and collaborating closely with team members can help manage this workload efficiently.

What are patent professionals?

Patent professionals are experts who specialize in the field of intellectual property, particularly in helping individuals or organizations protect their inventions through the patent system. They may include patent attorneys, patent agents, and patent examiners. Patent professionals assist clients in preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications, as well as advising on patent strategy, infringement, and enforcement. Their expertise ensures that inventions are properly documented and legally protected, allowing inventors to secure exclusive rights to their creations.

What are patent jobs?

Patent jobs involve working on the legal and technical aspects of intellectual property protection, such as drafting, filing, and prosecuting patent applications. These roles often require knowledge of patent law, technical expertise in a specific field, and may involve collaboration with inventors and attorneys.
What are the most commonly searched types of Patent jobs in Springfield, VA? The most popular types of Patent jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Patent jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Patent job openings:
Infographic showing various Patent job openings in Springfield, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,464 per year, or $76.7 per hour.

Senior Patent Counsel

Unified Patents

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Unified Patents is again growing its legal department, and seeks to add an experienced, registered patent attorney. Applicants should have at least 5 years of law firm or other relevant experience before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), in particular working on ex parte reexamination proceedings, post-grant petitions (IPR, PGR), or other administrative drafting and litigation experience.

Applicants should have a strong technical background and be willing to explore diverse new technologies; experience with video codecs, coding, cryptography, compression, signals, wireless communications, or other algorithmic subject matter is a plus. Patent examination experience is a plus; clerking experience is a plus; familiarity with ongoing appellate issues affecting PTAB practice is a plus. Must be willing to work within a team, work well independently, and enjoy writing and editing. Diversity is prized in our team and among our candidates. Please be prepared to discuss the administrative matters you have been involved in and be ready to provide examples.

Duties

Managing patent office proceedings internally

Drafting, filing, and litigating patent office proceedings, e.g., ex parte reexaminations

Handling calls with decision makers

Drafting motions and briefs

Supporting senior attorneys with management of ongoing matters

Support docketing, e-filing, deposit account, budgeting, and other IP functions

Editing work product of colleagues, outside counsel

Amicus curiae drafting and support; comment drafting and support

Contract, licensing, and other legal support services

Legal writing, support, and other various legal duties

Requirements

5 years of PTAB (drafting petitions, filing, litigating, deposition) or relevant reexamination experience

State Bar and Patent Registration Examination passage

Ability to work independently and in a team

Excellent English written and oral communication skills

Preferred additional qualities 

Patent Office examination experience

Algorithmic, codec, and other code-based subject matter experience

Semiconductor, analog and integrated circuit, and fabrication experience

Appellate and/or clerking experience

EE or CS undergraduate degree

Graduate Technical (MS, MA, or PhD) degree

Benefits

Aggressive, competitive benefits, with generous vacation and paid-for health insurance and profit-sharing; freedom to work from home when appropriate; maternity and paternity leave; financial support for bar associations and continuing legal education.