Patent Docketing Specialist

Overview

This role involves providing US and foreign patent filing docket services with a focus on accuracy and integrity. The position is based on the West Coast, ideally in Los Angeles with in-office work, but candidates located elsewhere on the West Coast or able to work West Coast hours will also be considered.

Responsibilities

• Manage docket dates and deadlines, including de-docketing completed items and generating docket reports.
• Perform docketing in both firm and client systems, with a majority of time spent in client systems.
• Docket incoming US Patent and Trademark Office and foreign filing mail accurately.
• Document comprehensive notes in the docket database for shared knowledge and historical reference.
• Apply judgment to maintain risk management and ensure complete, reliable docket data.
• Record all correspondence accurately in the database and record-keeping system.
• Investigate and report discrepancies or inconsistencies in due dates and dockets.
• Provide docketing guidance and expertise to patent practitioners and staff.
• Communicate docket standards, protocols, and procedures within the department.
• Review outgoing filings, de-docket relevant dates, and forecast next actions.
• Resolve and correct docket date discrepancies promptly.
• Coordinate with specialists and department members on foreign filing responses.
• Generate and distribute regular docket reports; prepare customized ad hoc reports for department members and clients.
• Collaborate closely with department members to ensure client reports meet specific needs.
• Assist in reviewing and updating docketing procedures and suggest improvements.
• Participate in periodic docket audits and proactively address issues.
• Contribute to special projects requiring docket expertise and historical knowledge.
• Conduct research on docket-related issues and implement process improvements.
• Ensure the highest accuracy in all work products, managing details under critical deadlines.
• Prioritize work effectively in response to deadlines and changing needs.
• Adhere to confidentiality policies and report any suspected breaches immediately.
• Follow general and department-specific safety practices.

Qualifications

• Expertise in relevant technology and ability to leverage tools to enhance teamwork, client service, and efficiency.
• Strong teamwork skills and applied knowledge.
• Exceptional organizational abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
• Produce accurate, highly detailed work with excellent proofreading skills.
• Advanced analytical and information-gathering capabilities to evaluate and prioritize detailed data.
• Proactive, solution-oriented approach to work and collaboration.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, especially Word.
• Availability for overtime work and flexibility regarding work schedule.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $80,000 - $110,000 USD per year (Remote or New Main Office location)

Location

• West Coast of the United States, preferably Los Angeles with in-office work.
• Candidates located elsewhere on the West Coast or able to work West Coast hours will also be considered.