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PCT Patent Analyst (Contract) - Mechanical/Medical Devices

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Posted Sep 27, 2026

Remote · US Contract
Est. $55K – $95K/yr

Overview

This role is for a Patent Analyst with a focus in Mechanical Engineering or Medical Devices. The organization seeks a remote independent contractor in a 1099 engagement supporting work tied to a contract with the US Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO).

As an independent contractor, you will perform comprehensive patent searching and provide written opinions on patentability across a range of diverse technologies.

Responsibilities

  • Accept assigned projects on a weekly basis, with each project having a defined due date based on availability and operational needs.
  • Read and analyze patent disclosures quickly, identifying technical nuances that may distinguish the disclosure from prior art.
  • Conduct comprehensive prior art searches to ensure the most relevant prior art is identified.
  • Produce a logical, complete search history.
  • Prepare written opinions applying the most relevant prior art to the disclosure.
  • Maintain proficiency with commercial patent searching databases and other proprietary databases of technical publications.
  • Stay current with best practices and changes to search procedures through self-directed review of materials provided by the organization.
  • Maintain consistent timeliness and high-quality deliverables.
  • Ensure compliance with the organization’s Code of Business Ethics and Corporate Conduct.

Requirements

  • U.S. citizen or work eligible legal resident who has resided in the U.S. for the last two years.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Life Sciences, or related field.
  • 1+ year of experience working with patents or in the intellectual property field.
  • 1+ year of work experience in the industry or advanced research in a related field.
  • Ability to pass a USPTO Background check.
  • Ability to obtain a Public Trust Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous patent examining/patent searching experience.
  • Highly skilled in developing a search methodology and conducting searches.
  • Strong time management skills and ability to complete projects against deadlines.
  • Experience with Orbit, PatBase, Google Scholar, or PatSeer.
  • Master’s degree or PhD.

Required Equipment

  • A computer running up to date versions of Windows or Mac OS.
  • Reliable, high-speed internet connection: at least 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload of dedicated internet bandwidth.
  • Secure work location; working from public areas is not permitted.
  • Phone and voicemail service for business communication.

Hours of Work

  • Flexible work hours.
  • Remote position, but all work must be completed in the United States.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Expected pay: $475 per patent case completed.
  • Pay is based on productivity and varies by experience, education, skill and ability, expertise, and relevant factors.

Location

  • Remote (home-based), with work performed in the United States.

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