Intellectual Property Paralegal

Overview

A global leader in intelligent access technology is seeking an Intellectual Property Paralegal to support its expanding global patent portfolio. This role involves independently developing, implementing, and managing the internal patent docketing system to ensure accurate lifecycle management of patent assets. The position serves as the primary operational steward of patent data, deadlines, and workflows, working closely with in-house IP counsel, outside patent law firms, and internal inventors.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain the internal patent docketing system, including workflows, processes, and controls for tracking global patent assets throughout their lifecycle
• Establish and manage communication procedures with outside patent law firms, acting as the primary contact to ensure accurate record keeping within the IP management system
• Develop and enforce internal procedures for opening, updating, auditing, and closing patent matters to maintain data accuracy and portfolio integrity
• Independently track, monitor, and docket critical deadlines such as patent prosecution milestones, maintenance fees, and annuities using the IP portfolio management system
• Generate standard and ad hoc reports on portfolio status, deadlines, and metrics for internal stakeholders
• Manage the shared Legal/IP email inbox, triaging communications from internal stakeholders and external counsel, and identifying those requiring attorney review
• Communicate with internal inventors to assist with invention disclosures, execution of formal documents, and collection of information needed for patent filings

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years as an Intellectual Property Paralegal with strong emphasis on utility and design patent prosecution, preferably within an in-house legal department

Skills and Knowledge:

• Understanding of USPTO patent practice
• Hands-on experience with IP docketing or portfolio management systems
• Experience coordinating with outside counsel and cross-functional internal teams
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, time management, and strong written and verbal communication abilities

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Paralegal certificate

Experience and Skills:

• Experience with Symphony® / MaxVal® IP portfolio management systems
• Familiarity with foreign patent practices
• Experience with trademark prosecution and docketing
• Knowledge of global patent filing and prosecution processes across multiple jurisdictions

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $85,500.00 - $162,975.00 (base pay varies based on position, location, education, training, and experience)
• Comprehensive benefits package
• 401(k) contribution
• Eligibility for participation in a short-term incentive plan subject to plan terms and policies

Location

• Hybrid position based in Oak Brook, IL
• Remote work option available for candidates located within the USA only