Intellectual Property Docketing Specialist

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP • Houston, TX

1d • Remote

About The Position

The Intellectual Property Docketing Specialist is responsible for accurately maintaining and managing the intellectual property (IP) docketing system, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. This position will primarily support U.S. and foreign patent prosecution matters. This role ensures that all deadlines are tracked, timely updated, and appropriately reported to support compliance with firm procedures. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in IP docketing within a legal environment. This position is focused on docketing and case management. The role does not have primary responsibility for preparing or filing patent applications and prosecution documents, allowing the successful candidate to concentrate on core docketing functions and best practices.

Requirements

• At least 2-4 years of experience in intellectual property docketing or a similar legal support role, specifically handling U.S. and foreign patent prosecution matters.
• Experience in a law firm or legal department is required.
• Strong understanding of intellectual property laws, regulations, and filing procedures, particularly for patents and trademarks (high focus on patents).
• Experience tracking and managing complex domestic and international patent deadlines, including PCT applications, national phase entries, foreign prosecution, and maintenance fee-related activities.
• Proficiency in using IP docketing software (e.g., CPI, Anaqua, PATTSY, or similar systems) and familiarity with the USPTO and foreign patent offices.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and prioritize tasks effectively.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and document management.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, clients, and external parties.
• Problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate issues and develop solutions.
• Ability to work independently and within a team, demonstrating initiative and a proactive approach to responsibilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and other office software.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies, Paralegal Studies, or a related field is preferred.
• Certification in IP docketing or paralegal studies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update the IP docketing system, ensuring that all relevant deadlines for patents, trademarks, and copyrights are accurately recorded and monitored (high focus on patents).
• Track and manage all critical dates related to IP filings, responses, renewals, and other actions, ensuring timely completion and compliance with all legal and procedural requirements.
• Review and enter incoming IP-related correspondence into the docketing system, including documents from the USPTO, foreign patent offices, and clients.
• Generate and distribute regular docket reports to attorneys, paralegals, and other legal staff, highlighting upcoming deadlines and required actions.
• Conduct periodic audits of the docketing system to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with firm standards.
• Provide training and support to legal staff on the use of the docketing system, ensuring that all users understand how to access and interpret docket information.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for all IP matters, ensuring that case files are complete and properly organized.
• Stay current with changes in IP laws, regulations, and filing procedures, updating the docketing system and processes as necessary.
• Collaborate with the IP team to develop and implement best practices for docketing and IP case management.
• Performs other duties and special projects as assigned by the IP Docketing Manager.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and retirement.
• Professional development support, including CLE tracking and training programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree