Patent Docketing Specialist

Wilson Sonsini•Washington, DC

5d•$35 - $53•Remote

About The Position

Wilson Sonsini is seeking a Patent Docketing Specialist to join its Intellectual Property docketing team. The role coordinates and maintains all aspects of the patent computerized docket system, working with practice group lawyers, staff, and third-party docketing vendors to provide efficient and effective patent support services. This position is available fully remotely. The role includes calendaring patent-related dates, processing and circulating correspondence, preparing docket reports, monitoring deadlines, maintaining docket records and matters, and supporting client and attorney transitions. The specialist also participates in practice group and docketing team meetings and provides backup support to other docketing staff. The anticipated hourly pay range is $39.23–$53.08 in Palo Alto, New York, and San Francisco, and $35.14–$47.55 in Austin, Boston, Boulder, Century City, Delaware, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, San Diego, Seattle, Washington, D.C., and other locations. Actual base pay depends on factors including qualifications, relevant experience, education, certifications, licenses, and work location. Compensation may include overtime and a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. The firm offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

Requirements

At least 5 years of automated patent docketing experience; candidates with more experience are also considered.
Familiarity with electronic filing systems and paperless docketing.
Extensive knowledge of CPI and the USPTO's Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR) system.
Knowledge of U.S., PCT, and foreign patent docketing procedures.
Understanding of rules and deadlines for domestic and foreign patents.
High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple priorities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, and Excel.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational skills.
Ability to perform duties with minimal direction.
Ability to communicate and collaborate virtually with colleagues.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

Calendar dates related to patent application filings, formalities, office actions, and maintenance fees.
Download and file electronic correspondence from the USPTO, foreign patent offices, or foreign agents into the document management system.
Circulate incoming correspondence from the USPTO, foreign patent offices, or foreign agents to the appropriate attorney teams.
Prepare firm-standard and custom docket reports.
Proactively monitor due dates to ensure deadlines are met on time.
Review outstanding dates in the docketing database, consult with supervisors, and advance or de-docket as instructed.
Open and close matters in the docketing database as needed.
Set up new cases in the docketing database.
Assist with intakes and transfers related to new clients, attorney hires, attorney departures, or changes in counsel.
Participate in IP practice group and docketing team meetings.
Provide backup support to other docketing staff as needed.
Perform other tasks as assigned.