Associate Director, Intellectual Property Counsel (remote)

Overview

This role involves providing intellectual property (IP) leadership within a global aerospace organization. The position supports multiple aerospace business units focused on technologies including avionics, sensors, advanced structures, power and control systems, fire protection, space systems, and landing systems. The role requires expertise in IP law, strategic problem solving, communication with senior leadership, and negotiation with external parties. This is a fully remote position with occasional travel required.

Responsibilities

• Lead IP engagement across the business units.
• Provide timely and clear advice to senior management, legal counsel, engineers, and commercial teams on IP matters including patents, trade secrets, trademarks, copyrights, and related disputes.
• Negotiate and advise on IP agreements and IP aspects of broader contracts with customers, suppliers, and partners.
• Collaborate with clients to develop and implement IP strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Engage actively on IP issues throughout product development.
• Work with engineers and outside counsel to identify protectable inventions, assess disclosures, prepare and prosecute patent applications, and protect trade secrets.
• Monitor third-party patents and applications to assess infringement risks and validity.
• Advise on competitor product monitoring and potential patent infringement issues; oversee litigation as necessary.
• Utilize internal and third-party tools to improve legal operations and department processes.
• Develop strategic IP plans supporting business goals.
• Review and clear IP-related content for publication.
• Conduct IP due diligence for mergers and acquisitions in relevant technical areas.
• Resolve issues independently when possible, consulting with peers and senior legal counsel as appropriate.
• Travel up to 10% as required.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Admission to the Bar of one or more U.S. states.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Minimum 5 years of IP legal experience.
• Typically requires a STEM degree or advanced degree in a related field with at least 10-12 years of relevant experience.
• U.S. citizenship is required due to program/contract access restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace industry (engineer, in-house attorney, or patent prosecutor).
• Background in both law firm and in-house IP legal roles.
• Experience negotiating IP contracts with customers and suppliers.
• Expertise in patent preparation, prosecution, transactions, and litigation.
• Knowledge of U.S. government contracts intellectual property.
• Engineering experience is beneficial.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $157,200 - $298,800 USD, dependent on experience and qualifications.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three weeks of vacation for new employees.
• Generous 401(k) plan with employer matching and additional retirement contributions.
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment programs.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Optional insurance coverages including pet, home, auto, critical illness, legal, and ID theft protection.
• Parental leave, adoption assistance, and family planning benefits.
• Employee assistance programs including counseling sessions.
• Wellness incentives and virtual doctor visits.
• Child and elder care services.
• Second opinion medical programs.

Location

• This is a remote position based in the United States.
• Candidates living near a company facility may discuss onsite presence with management.
• U.S. citizenship is required.

Additional Information

• Candidates may be required to attend some interview steps in person.
• The application window is approximately 40 days from the posting date but may vary.
• Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
• Benefits and compensation may vary based on business unit and collective bargaining agreements.
• Annual incentive compensation programs may be available depending on position level and performance.