Who are we?

Named for several years as a "great place" to work by The Washington Post and Washington Business Journal, Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. is proud to be one of the most highly regarded intellectual property specialty law firms in the world. We recognize that it is the talent and dynamism of each individual at Sterne Kessler that makes this possible. Accordingly, we have cultivated an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating with just the right touch of fun and exuberance. We offer a competitive compensation package with excellent benefits and are Metro-accessible in a prime downtown location with many nearby restaurants and shops.

What do we need?

We are looking for a Foreign Filing Legal Assistant who is experienced with filing new patent applications worldwide. Foreign Filing Legal Assistants at our firm have a high attention to detail, are able to work well in a deadline-driven and fast-paced environment, and possess good judgment skills to handle a variety of legal and administrative tasks. This position is hybrid from the D.C. area with some in-office presence as needed.

How will you make an impact?

• Processing the filing of new foreign patent applications worldwide, i.e. EPC, PCT, national, non-convention cases.
• Preparing and reviewing appropriate correspondence from foreign associates and to clients and associates regarding new applications, formal requirements, filing details, etc.
• Preparing client letters, formal documents, filing reports, responses to PCT invitations, national phase reminder letters, etc.
• Ordering certified copies from U.S. Patent & Trademark Office.
• Working with vendors, patent office personnel, consulate offices and various local and state governments to obtain certification and legalization of formal documents as needed.
• Reviewing docket reports for accuracy.
• Maintaining and clearing a daily and personal docket.
• Maintaining knowledge of foreign filing requirements, tax laws, renewal data, expiration data, etc.
• And more.

What will you bring to the role?

• 3-5 years of foreign patent filing experience required. U.S. patent prosecution experience will be considered.
• Bachelor's degree or paralegal certificate preferred.
• Performs well under pressure, working efficiently and productively/
• Strong analytical, attention to details, problem solving, time management and communication skills needed.
• Must be a team player capable of working effectively with all levels of staff.
• Should possess strong computer, administrative, customer service and research skills and be capable of working at a fast pace.
• Must be able to exercise initiative and good judgment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Capable of working independently with minimum supervision.
• Knowledge of Windows-based software applications, document management systems and IP estimate tools.

The good faith base salary range for this position is $60,000 to $75,000 per year. The actual salary rate offered to candidates within that range will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, years of relevant experience, education, and the candidate’s overall qualifications for the position as assessed by the Firm.

To Apply

Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.

Sterne Kessler is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.