Patent Attorney

Mettler Toledo • Columbus, OH

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

METTLER TOLEDO is seeking a skilled, detail-oriented Patent Attorney to join its global in-house IP team, reporting to the Head of Global IP. The role works with colleagues in Switzerland, India, and China and supports multiple business units. The attorney manages patent matters from initial invention disclosures through grant, helps ensure freedom to operate for new products, and provides strategic guidance on protecting the company’s innovations and managing its patent portfolio. The position also involves collaboration with engineers, inventors, product managers, external law firms, and the broader IP and legal team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant technical field, such as engineering, natural sciences, or life sciences.
• Registered Patent Agent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• At least 3 years of experience in patent prosecution.
• Strong understanding of patent law and intellectual property management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical information clearly.
• Ability to analyze technical documentation and assess patentability.
• Ability to independently manage patent-related deadlines and workflows, ensuring timely filings and preventing case lapses through diligent follow-up with internal stakeholders and external vendors.
• Strong organization and project management skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to collaborate with a diverse international team and foster open communication and mutual respect.

Nice To Haves

• Patent prosecution experience in-house or in a law firm.
• Familiarity with international patent systems, including PCT filings.
• Experience with EPO and Chinese patent practices.

Responsibilities

• Ensure new products have freedom to operate.
• Manage the patent application process for assigned business units from initial disclosure through grant.
• Provide cross-functional patent support across multiple business units, prioritizing responsibilities according to project stages and strategic milestones.
• Analyze patent landscapes with the support of the search team to identify potential barriers and opportunities.
• Prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications in various jurisdictions in collaboration with external law firms.
• Collaborate with inventors and product teams to identify and evaluate patentable inventions.
• Draft and revise patent claims and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with relevant patent laws and regulations throughout the application process.
• Monitor and manage deadlines for patent filings and office actions.
• Assist in developing and implementing patent strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Train and guide stakeholders on patent processes and intellectual property rights.
• Support enforcement cases with the broader IP and legal team to protect intellectual property rights.

Benefits

• Flexible working hours, depending on the role.
• Hybrid work model.
• Wide portfolio of training opportunities.
• 40-hour work week.
• At least 25 vacation days per year, plus 4 to 7 additional days off between bank holidays.
• Free parking and direct access to public transport.
• Onsite restaurant serving healthy lunches at special employee prices.
• Employee discounts at select area businesses.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level