Sr. Paralegal, Intellectual Property

Gemological Institute of America•Carlsbad, CA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are looking for an experienced Intellectual Property Senior Paralegal to join our in-house legal team. In this role, you will support the management and protection of the company’s global IP portfolio, including trademarks, patents, and copyrights. You will work closely with the Legal Affairs team, business stakeholders, and external counsel to help safeguard and grow our valuable IP assets. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative, business-focused environment where your contributions will have a direct impact on the Institute’s brand and innovation strategy.

Requirements

Proficiency in reading, writing and speaking in English required
Ability to communicate complex info in a simplified and clear manner; can communicate effectively with others, able to develop and modify communication strategies to deliver difficult or complex information. Actively listens and encourages the open expression of diverse ideas
Ability to create positive interactions with colleagues; actively communicates with co-workers or with management in a timely & professional manner; maintains collaborative working relationship with others and peers to improve performance
Interface well with others, knows who to go to and how to communicate issues/needs. Knows how to balance the interests of multiple stakeholders
Works on complex issues, requiring the ability to synthesize and analyze multiple sources of information to independently solve problems requiring strong judgement and decision-making abilities
Manages time and priorities appropriately - approaches work in an organized and systematic manner. Able to manage large projects and deadlines
Able to adapt to change, able to multi-task while maintaining attention to detail. Able to adapt communication styles. Understands that different situations may call for different approaches
Continually improves performance; takes personal accountability for decisions, actions & outcomes. Follows through on commitments and encourages others do the same
Strong knowledge of MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Bachelor's degree in related field, and 5+ years of IP paralegal experience in a law firm and/or corporate legal department; or equivalent combination of education and experience
Paralegal certificate from an accredited program required
Strong working knowledge of U.S. and international trademark and patent systems, procedures and filings (e.g.: USPTO, WIPO, EUIPO).
Experience managing IP databases/docketing systems.
Proficiency in IP docketing systems

Responsibilities

Manage and maintain the company’s domestic and international trademark and patent portfolios
Coordinate and track filings, renewals, and deadlines with outside counsel
Monitor IP watch notices, assist with clearance searches, and support enforcement efforts
Maintain IP records and databases, ensuring accuracy and timely reporting
Assist with IP-related agreements, audits, and due diligence projects
Provide general support on copyright, licensing, and other IP matters as needed
Conflict Resolution: able to settle differences in productive ways while minimizing disruptions. Willingness to confront issues. Facilitates breakthroughs by integrating diverse views and finding common ground or acceptable alternatives.
Maintains & fosters sensitivity and respect for cultural diversity. Seeks to understand different perspectives and cultures
Mentoring: Always shares and transfers knowledge locally and/or globally to team members as needed