IP Docket Technician

Administration and OperationsIntellectual PropertyChicago

Job Description

At K&L Gates, we are looking for smart, imaginative and hard-working people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and ideas to join us.  Perhaps our search for talented visionaries and your search for important and impactful work lead to the same place.

The IP Docket Tech is responsible or the integrity of the firm’s Intellectual Property (IP) Procurement docket database, which specifically includes maintaining cases, processing IP-related correspondence into and out of the firm, as well as executing various reports and distribution of daily reminders for clients and attorneys.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES
• Process all incoming mail daily, including, but not limited, to IP-related correspondence from the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Australian Patent and Trademark Office, International Agents, and Inter-Office communications among attorneys and staff
• Generate/distribute daily reminders to the IP attorneys and staff for upcoming deadlines in relation to the IP Docket Database
• Ensure that all deadlines in relation to the IP Docket Database have been satisfied by the end of business each day by communicating directly with attorneys to identify all requirements have been met specific to the docket
• Monitor/update information on all IP domestic and international cases in the IP Docket Database in relation to client communications, government notifications, and international agent correspondence
• Review outgoing USPTO mail/filings for accuracy and completeness by adhering to the firm’s approved best practice policies
• Conduct periodic status checks and participate in docket audits using government websites and communication to International Agents
• Generate various reports as requested for clients or attorneys on an as needed basis
• Maintain current knowledge of IP rules and procedures, both domestic and international
• Assist the accounting department with the reconciliation of the firm’s deposit accounts for the United States, WIPO, and Europe by ensuring that all charges are accurately allocated to their unique firm-issued billing number
• Assist with the client intake process

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIRED
• Previous IP law firm of experience of 3+ years
• Knowledge of domestic and international patent and/or trademark prosecution procedures
• High School Graduate or equivalent 
• Experience with Word, Excel, and Outlook, as well as solid internet research capabilities
• Proficiency and previous experience with IP Docketing Systems (PATTSY preferred)
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and complete tasks with strong attention to detail and adhering to the firm’s best practices
• Strong work ethic and ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Interpersonal and communication skills required to interact with lawyers and staff

ADDITIONAL ABILITIES REQUIRED
• Ability to frequently work at fast pace with unscheduled interruptions
• Responsibilities may require an adjusted work schedule, overtime, and evening/weekend hours in order to meet deadlines
• Ability to manage and communicate confidential issues effectively
• This job operates in an office setting and is largely sedentary, requiring the routine use of a computer and other standard office equipment.  The ability to open file cabinets, lift files, bend, and stand on a stool may also be required.

Compensation Salary: $68,263- $102,395

The compensation salary for this position will be determined during the interview process and will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to prior experience, relevant expertise, current business needs, and market factors.

ABOUT THE FIRM

K&L Gates is a fully integrated global law firm with lawyers located across five continents in more than 40 offices. We have experienced dramatic growth in the past decade and now rank among the largest U.S. based law firms in the world.  We take pride in constantly striving for innovation, imagination and an entrepreneurial spirit. We come up with big ideas and then roll up our sleeves to get the job done, guiding our clients through their most complex issues in a variety of industry sectors and across multiple regions of the world. 

The industry recognition the firm has garnered emanates from the foundation of a global community aligned on behalf of our clients. The people at K&L Gates are committed to working together to create a legacy for each other, the firm, our clients, and the communities in which we serve. We thrive in an inclusive and socially conscious environment that embraces diversity and takes a holistic approach to the career evolution of all our professionals.

For more information or to view other job opportunities, please click here to go back to our careers page.

Notice: We participate in E-Verify in certain Firm locations for purposes of verifying employment eligibility.

BENEFITS

K&L Gates offers our personnel a comprehensive suite of benefits to help meet your needs now and in the future. Depending on your eligibility, options for full-time personnel include:

  • Medical/Prescription Drug Coverage (including a Health Savings Account feature)
  • Back-up Child/Elder Care and access to a caregiving concierge
  • Dental Insurance
  • Wellness Program
  • Vision Insurance
  • Pre-tax Commuting Benefits
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan and Profit Sharing
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Short- and Long-term Disability Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Life Insurance (including Basic, Supplemental, Spouse, Child, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment)
  • Health Advocacy Services
  • Paid Time Off (20 days/year through first 4 years of employment; 25 days/year after 5 years of employment)
  • Identity Protection/Restoration and Fraud Insurance
  • Parental Leave (18 weeks of which 6 are paid; short-term disability may provide additional paid time off)
  • Student loan refinancing options and access to a student loan concierge service
  • Paid Holidays (12)
  • Addiction Resources
  • Family Building Benefits
  • Breast Milk Delivery and Lactation Support Services
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employees also may be eligible to receive bonuses and certain expense reimbursements
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Professional Development and CLE Credit Opportunities
  • 529 Deductions
  • Relocation
  • Accident Insurance
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Hybrid/Remote Work Opportunities
  • Hospital Indemnity Insurance
  • Perks including: Technology, Entertainment, and Travel Discount Programs
  • Bereavement Leave
  • All other benefits (such as leaves of absence) required by law

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Firm is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions will be based on merit, qualifications, competence, and business need. Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by a person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions), national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. This policy governs all aspects of employment including, without limitation, recruiting, hiring, compensation, benefits, promotion, assignment, and dismissal. In addition, it is the Firm’s policy to provide an environment that is free of all unlawful harassment including, without limitation, that based on sex, race, age, disability, or national origin. The Firm complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please contact askHR@klgates.com.