I.P. - Patent Agent

Fenwick & West•Washington, DC

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

Fenwick & West has been a leader in technology and life sciences law since 1972. One reason for its success is its Patents & Emerging Technologies Group, consistently ranked a top patent group in the U.S. The group has deep expertise across technology and life sciences, representing innovative companies at every stage of growth. Fenwick’s patent professionals all hold strong technical credentials—many with Master’s or Ph.D. degrees and significant prior industry. Our patent agents and technical advisors have outstanding technical backgrounds and a strong interest in building long-term careers in patent law. Fenwick is deeply committed to training and mentoring the next generation of patent professionals. We have built a robust patent agent and technical advisor program designed to provide meaningful responsibility, hands-on learning, and sustained professional development. Patent practitioners receive extensive exposure to high-quality prosecution work, direct mentorship from experienced attorneys, and regular feedback aimed at accelerating technical and legal growth. While patent prosecution is the primary focus, agents also assist with litigation and corporate matters that require sophisticated technical insight, allowing for broader experience and skill development. In addition, Patent agents and technical advisors are eligible to participate in our law school tuition reimbursement program, reflecting our commitment to supporting those who aspire to continue their legal education and grow within the firm. Fenwick is seeking Patent Agents with two or more years of patent prosecution experience. Candidates should have a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, or Physics, or equivalent experience, preferably an M.S. or higher. Candidates should have passed the patent bar and possess excellent academic credentials, a strong technological background, and superior oral, written, and interpersonal skills. This role is well-suited for patent agents who are eager to deepen their training, gain exposure to sophisticated work, and advance their careers in a collaborative, mentorship-focused environment. This position may be located in our Silicon Valley (preferred), Boston, New York, Seattle, or Washington, DC offices. To apply, please complete our online application and upload a cover letter, resume, graduate transcript(s) (if applicable), undergraduate transcript, and a writing sample (a sample demonstrating the ability to explain a technical concept is preferred). Agency recruiters: please submit separately via your agency's Workday portal. #LI-HYBRID

Requirements

two or more years of patent prosecution experience
degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, or Physics, or equivalent experience, preferably an M.S. or higher
passed the patent bar
excellent academic credentials
strong technological background
superior oral, written, and interpersonal skills