Intellectual Property Technology Specialist (Chemistry) – D.C.

Intellectual Property Technology Specialist (Chemistry)

Direct Counsel is representing a leading AmLaw firm seeking a Technology Specialist to join its Intellectual Property practice . This role is ideal for candidates with an advanced scientific background who are interested in developing a career in patent law while gaining hands‑on experience with patent prosecution, litigation support, and IP counseling.

Key Responsibilities

• Work with inventors to prepare and prosecute patent applications before the USPTO
• Draft responses to patent office actions and assist with patent filings
• Conduct technical and patent research using scientific journals and patent databases
• Assist attorneys with patentability, validity, freedom‑to‑operate, and infringement analyses
• Prepare correspondence and instructions for foreign patent filings
• Support patent litigation matters through technical analysis and review of patent file histories and technical literature
• Assist with IP transactional matters and special projects as assigned

Professional DevelopmentThis role is part of the firm’s Technology Specialist Program, which provides a pathway to becoming a patent attorney. Technology Specialists are expected to:

• Attend an ABA‑accredited law school (evening program preferred)
• Obtain a J.D. within four years
• Sit for and pass the USPTO Patent Bar to become a registered patent agent
• Potentially participate in the firm’s summer associate program during law school
• Transition to an associate attorney role upon completion of law school and successful bar admission

The firm also offers law school tuition reimbursement as part of the program.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry (Organic Chemistry strongly preferred)
• Strong academic credentials
• Excellent analytical, research, and communication skills
• Interest in pursuing a career in intellectual property and patent law
• Prior patent law experience or USPTO registration not required

Compensation & BenefitsSalary range:

• Not enrolled in law school: $130,000
• 1st year of law school: $150,000
• 2nd year of law school: $160,000
• 3rd year of law school: $170,000
• 4th year of law school: $215,000

The firm offers comprehensive benefits , including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, 401(k) retirement plans, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement for law school.

This is an exceptional opportunity for scientists interested in transitioning into intellectual property law while gaining practical experience at a top‑tier law firm.

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