Contract IP Specialist (Intellectual Property)

Naviga•Palo Alto, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Step into a critical, fast-paced role where your expertise in patent prosecution will make an immediate impact on a globally recognized legal team. We are seeking a highly skilled IP Specialist to manage crucial US provisional and non-provisional applications, keeping vital intellectual property moving flawlessly through the pipeline. This is a specialized, three-month contract position designed to provide essential coverage during a medical leave, requiring a professional who can hit the ground running immediately and keep our high-performing attorneys on track. You will be joining one of the world's most prestigious and forward-thinking global law firms, renowned for representing top-tier innovators and industry leaders. Our intellectual property practice is dedicated to protecting the ideas that shape the future, operating within a culture that values excellence, precision, and deep collaboration. By stepping into this team, you become part of an elite group of legal professionals committed to delivering unmatched service and strategic counsel to cutting-edge clients.

Requirements

Minimum of three years of administrative or office experience within a professional services or legal environment.
Strong preference for direct patent prosecution experience.
Comprehensive knowledge of USPTO rules and practices, including docketing, public/private PAIR, US prosecution, and formality requirements.
Proven ability to independently file documents with the USPTO and confidently navigate complex patent processes.
Highly proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Familiarity with patent docketing software such as OP Solutions Patsy.
High School diploma or GED.
Physical capability to handle primarily sedentary work with occasional light lifting up to 10 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Proactive self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven legal environment.
Highly organized with sharp judgment to prioritize multiple time-sensitive tasks without losing attention to detail.
Exceptional communication and writing skills.
Ability to easily collaborate with high-level attorneys, clients, and internal teams.
Reliable and aggressively punctual.
Takes pride in acting as the organizational anchor for your team.
Seamlessly balancing independent focus with a deeply collaborative spirit.

Responsibilities

Prepare and finalize all necessary documents to complete the filing of US provisional and non-provisional applications.
Draft and process formal documents including assignments, declarations, and powers of attorney, ensuring all appropriate signatures are obtained and recorded with the US Patent Office.
Communicate directly with clients regarding the status of applications and patents, providing prompt updates on filing receipts, publication notices, and forwarding patent certificates.
Manage and file critical responses, including corrected application papers, restriction requirements, and office actions, complete with necessary extensions, terminal disclaimers, and exhibits.
Review and oversee the docket for U.S. deadlines, understanding the specific actions required for each file and proactively keeping attorneys and patent agents on schedule.
Conduct complex research utilizing the USPTO website and other databases to retrieve vital information and support overall portfolio management.