Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney (Mechanical or Chemical Engineering) in , us

Positions

Patent Associate Attorney – Mechanical or Chemical Engineering

Locations: Washington, DC; Chicago; Philadelphia; Denver; Indianapolis; Minneapolis; Wilmington

Overview

Direct Counsel is seeking a Patent Associate Attorney to join a well‑established law firm with a robust and growing intellectual property practice. This role is ideal for a junior‑level associate with a strong engineering background who is interested in patent prosecution work across a range of mechanical, chemical, and materials‑based technologies.

Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications
• Work closely with clients on patent strategy and portfolio development
• Conduct invention disclosure interviews and collaborate with inventors
• Handle patent matters involving mechanical technologies, with the ability to support chemical or materials science applications as needed
• Collaborate with attorneys, agents, and technical specialists in a team‑oriented environment

Qualifications

• 1‑3 years of experience with patent prosecution as an attorney or patent agent
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree a plus)
• Demonstrated experience working with mechanical technologies
• Ability to support chemical or materials science patent work when needed
• Strong academic credentials
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Admission to the USPTO and a U.S. state bar (or eligibility to waive in)

Compensation & Benefits

• Anticipated base salary range: $175,000 - $255,000, depending on experience, skill set, and office location
• Comprehensive benefits package including bonuses, health and insurance, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan

Work Environment

• Hybrid schedule with an expectation of working in the office three days per week
• Emphasis on collaboration, professional development, and work‑life balance

This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated associate attorney seeking hands‑on patent prosecution experience within a collaborative, client‑focused IP practice.