Department: Intellectual Property

About Us

Ballard Spahr is a nationally recognized law firm with more than 750 lawyers across 19 offices in the United States. A career at Ballard Spahr means joining a team of talented mentors, colleagues, and friends, supported by strong leadership that actively encourages professional growth.

The IP Docketing & Portfolio Clerk plays a critical role in supporting the firm's patent practice through accurate and timely docket management, assisting with new intakes, and managing the patent annuities portfolio workflow. This position requires initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. The docketing clerk contributes to workflow continuity, is a strong team player who communicates proactively, and upholds firm values in all interactions. This position is fully remote.

Why Join Us?

• Innovative Work Environment: Become part of a forward-thinking firm that enjoys substantial support and visibility from the firm's executive leadership.
• Professional Development: Take advantage of continuous learning opportunities and avenues for career growth.
• Inclusion: Join a Business Resource Group and share cultural, experiential, or job-related interests, experiences, and/or backgrounds.
• Impactful Contributions: Play a pivotal role in developing industry-leading solutions that make a significant difference in legal practice and client service.

Your Role:

As a Docketing & Portfolio Clerk within our IP Patent team, you will:

• Maintain deadlines in a tracking system to ensure timely follow-ups and responses.
• Prepare docket reports for attorneys, clients, and the patent group.
• Save, organize, and maintain electronic files in document management system in accordance with department protocols.
• Monitor and manage maintenance fee deadlines for large-scale domestic and international patent annuity portfolios.
• Maintain and update the firm's electronic docketing system with accurate annuity payment dates, receipts, and official communications.

What We're Looking For

• Growth Mindset: Self-motivated with a passion for continuous learning and problem-solving.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Detail-Oriented: Keen attention to detail and strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities are essential, along with the ability to appropriately escalate issues.
• Professionalism: Candidates should possess a professional demeanor, a positive attitude, and the ability to work well under pressure.

Required Experience:

A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Candidates should have prior experience in IP docketing, managing annuities portfolios, and be proficient in IP docketing software (e.g., IP Manager), as well as Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook. While previous experience in a law firm or legal environment is preferred, it is not mandatory.

The targeted salary range for this position is from $65,000 - $75,000, which reflects the firm's good faith and reasonable estimate of possible compensation at the time of posting. Actual pay will depend on several factors such as the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Ballard Spahr offers an excellent benefits package. A summary of available benefits can be found here in the Careers section of the firm's website.

Ready to Grow with Us?

If you are ready to play a vital role in the Firm's success, we encourage you to apply and be a part of our commitment to excellence.

At Ballard Spahr, we believe that our skills, perspectives, and backgrounds drive innovation and excellence, while our unique culture fosters collaboration and success. Our culture of thriving together forms the cornerstone of how we deliver exceptional service and position our firm for a strong future. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Ballard Spahr is an equal opportunity employer. We offer equal consideration to all qualified applicants, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, age, national origin, handicap or disability, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, transgender status, sex stereotyping, genetic information, ancestry, veteran status or any other category protected by applicable law.

The firm is not accepting resumes from search firms for this position.