IP Legal Specialist

Eastman • Kingsport, TN

1d

About The Position

The IP Legal Specialist supports Eastman’s global patent portfolio by coordinating filings, managing critical deadlines, maintaining accurate portfolio information, and improving intellectual property processes. The role involves preparing and maintaining U.S. and international patent applications and related documents; monitoring docketed tasks, filing requirements, and follow-up activities; reviewing documents, filing data, fees, and records before and after submission; and keeping Anaqua records, electronic files, and prosecution histories current and complete. The specialist coordinates with internal teams, outside counsel, service providers, and patent offices, and identifies issues, manages priorities, escalates matters appropriately, and supports process improvements. The position is suited to a detail-oriented problem solver who takes ownership, is willing to learn, and works collaboratively.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience managing detailed, deadline-driven work.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and Teams.
• Strong communication, proofreading, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn specialized legal and filing systems, manage multiple priorities, and meet critical deadlines.
• Ability to handle confidential information and work independently and collaboratively.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree, paralegal certificate, vocational training, or comparable relevant experience.
• Experience supporting U.S. or international patent prosecution.
• Experience with IP management or legal docketing software.
• Familiarity with USPTO Patent Center or other government electronic filing systems.
• Experience proofreading complex legal documents, maintaining accurate records, and managing critical deadlines.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Curiosity and willingness to learn.
• Ownership, sound judgment, and follow-through.
• Adaptability and a collaborative, service-oriented approach.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain U.S. and international patent applications and related documents.
• Monitor docketed tasks, filing requirements, deadlines, and follow-up activities.
• Review documents, filing data, fees, and records for accuracy before and after submission.
• Maintain current and complete Anaqua records, electronic files, and prosecution histories.
• Coordinate with internal teams, outside counsel, service providers, and patent offices to advance matters.
• Identify issues, manage priorities, escalate appropriately, and support more efficient processes.

Benefits

• Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage, with a Health Savings Account option.
• Voluntary benefits including vision, optional life, and critical-illness protection.
• Financial-planning tools, family-building assistance including adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources, parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.
• 401(k) with a company match and an additional annual retirement contribution.
• Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation.
• Mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED