IP Operations Manager
About The Position
Mueting Raasch Group (MRG) is seeking an experienced IP Operations Manager to lead and support its patent prosecution paralegal and docketing functions. This is a hands-on leadership role for an individual who combines strong patent prosecution experience with an interest in improving operational processes. The successful candidate will manage day-to-day workloads, support and develop team members, improve processes, and help the firm effectively utilize automation, artificial intelligence, technology tools, and outside service providers. The role also requires a willingness to remain actively involved in patent prosecution support and docketing work when needed.
Requirements
- 5+ years of experience in patent prosecution paralegal work, IP docketing, or IP operations at a law firm or corporate legal department.
- Paralegal certificate or equivalent experience required.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
- Experience with IP docketing software (such as CPI, Foundation IP, Anaqua, or AppColl).
- Experience with document management systems (such as NetDocuments or iManage).
- Strong working knowledge of U.S., PCT, and foreign patent prosecution procedures and deadlines.
- Prior supervisory, team-lead, or management experience in a law firm or corporate legal department.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage deadline-sensitive work.
- Experience developing or improving workflows and procedures.
- Comfort with technology and an interest in using automation and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and service.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively with attorneys, patent agents, staff, vendors, and firm leadership.
- A collaborative, practical, and hands-on approach to leadership.
- Team-oriented, with the ability to work independently.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor's degree preferred.
Responsibilities
- Identify opportunities to streamline repetitive and administrative work through automation, artificial intelligence, software tools, and outside vendors.
- Help evaluate, implement, and manage technology solutions that improve patent prosecution operations.
- Coordinate and oversee work performed by outside or offshore service providers, as appropriate.
- Onboard and train new paralegal and docketing staff on patent and trademark prosecution workflows, firm procedures, and best practices.
- Promote cross-training and consistent practices across the paralegal and docketing teams.
- Work closely with attorneys, patent agents, and firm leadership to address staffing, workflow, and service needs.
- Develop and improve procedures, workflows, checklists, and quality-control processes.
- Lead, support, and develop patent prosecution paralegal and docketing personnel.
- Manage and balance workloads to help ensure deadlines are met accurately and efficiently.
- Perform day-to-day docketing and patent prosecution paralegal work as needed to support the team and meet client and firm needs.
Benefits
- Medical (employer-paid premiums for employee-only coverage)
- Dental
- Vision
- Life/AD&D
- Short- and long-term disability
- Health reimbursement account
- Health savings account with employer contributions
- Pet insurance
- 401(k)/profit-sharing retirement plan
- Minnesota Earned Sick and Safe Time
- PTO/holidays
- Firm-issued equipment
- Home office stipend
- Discretionary bonuses
- In-office perks such as monthly lunches
- Free on-site gym
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
