The Summer Associate position will involve all facets of patent law including working on replies to ... A technical background is required in computer engineering or electrical engineering; and an ...
The Summer Associate position will involve all facets of patent law including working on replies to ... A technical background is required in computer engineering or electrical engineering; and an ...
2026 Summer Associate (2L): Electrical Practice Group
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$6.2K/mo
The Summer Associate position will involve all facets of patent law including working on replies to ... A technical background is required in computer engineering or electrical engineering; and an ...
2026 Summer Associate (2L): Electrical Practice Group
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$6.2K/mo
The Summer Associate position will involve all facets of patent law including working on replies to ... A technical background is required in computer engineering or electrical engineering; and an ...
Summer Patent Engineer information
What is a summer patent engineer?
A Summer Patent Engineer is typically an intern or temporary employee who works with patent teams during the summer months, often at a law firm or within a corporation's intellectual property department. Their main duties include supporting patent attorneys or agents with technical analysis, prior art searches, drafting patent applications, and evaluating the patentability of inventions. This role is ideal for students or recent graduates with an engineering or technical background who are interested in intellectual property law. The position provides hands-on experience with the patent process and can help individuals decide if they want to pursue a career in patent law or patent engineering.
What types of projects and responsibilities can a summer patent engineer expect during their internship?
As a Summer Patent Engineer, you can expect to work closely with patent attorneys, inventors, and R&D teams to assist in drafting patent applications, conducting prior art searches, and analyzing technical disclosures. Typical responsibilities include reviewing invention submissions, preparing technical descriptions, and helping evaluate the patentability of new ideas. This role often involves a mix of independent research and collaborative meetings, offering hands-on experience with intellectual property processes while developing communication skills essential for working with cross-functional teams.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer patent engineer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Summer Patent Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering or science (often pursuing or holding a relevant degree), strong analytical skills, and a keen understanding of patent law basics. Familiarity with patent databases, prior art search tools, and technical writing software is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively set top candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate patent documentation, effective intellectual property protection, and successful teamwork in a highly technical legal environment.
What is the difference between Summer Patent Engineer vs Patent Agent?
| Aspect | Summer Patent Engineer | Patent Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically pursuing or holding a technical degree; internship or summer program experience | Must pass the patent bar exam; technical background often required |
| Work Environment | Internship or temporary role within law firms, corporations, or patent offices | Full-time role in law firms, corporations, or patent agencies |
| Industry Usage | Used as a training or internship position for students | Licensed professionals authorized to prepare and file patent applications |
While both roles involve patent law and technical expertise, a Summer Patent Engineer is typically an internship for students gaining experience, whereas a Patent Agent is a licensed professional authorized to practice patent law full-time.
What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia?
The most popular types of Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Summer Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia?
For Summer Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Summer Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?
The top searched job categories for Summer Patent Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
2026 Summer Associate (2L): Electrical Practice Group
Alexandria, VA
$6.2K/mo
Full-time
Re-posted 21 days ago
Job description
Oblon’s Electrical Practice Group is seeking 2L candidates for its 10-week 2026 Summer Associate program, currently scheduled to begin mid-May, 2026. This is an on-site position in our Alexandria, Virginia office.
The Summer Associate position will involve all facets of patent law including working on replies to USPTO office actions; review of invention disclosure materials; drafting and prosecution of new patent applications; research; and assisting attorneys with client requests related to patent counseling, agreements and related transactions.
A technical background is required in computer engineering or electrical engineering; and an advanced degree is preferred. We seek candidates with a demonstrated track record of academic achievement and superior writing and interpersonal skills.
The semi-monthly salary for the 2026 Summer Associate position is $6,250 (before applicable taxes and withholdings). To apply, please provide your resume with cover letter, law school and college transcripts, and a writing sample. Candidates should redact social security numbers and similar information before submitting materials.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The application will remain open until the program has been filled.
About Oblon
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Law firms
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Alexandria, VA, US
Year founded
1968