Patent Agent or Attorney (Organic Chemistry)
The Position
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is seeking a Junior to Midlevel Associate or Patent Agent to join the Life Sciences subgroup of the Intellectual Property practice group. This position can work out of any of our offices. The Attorney must have 3+ years of patent prosecution experience at a firm or in-house, and the ability to draft patent applications is a must. The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a related life-science field. Admission to the USPTO is preferred. The candidate must excel in a team environment and be a highly-motivated self-starter with excellent legal judgment, business strategy, the ability to communicate clearly with clients, and the flexibility to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Job Requirements
- This position can be located in our Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, Raleigh, Denver, or Salt Lake City offices.
- At least 3 years of law firm or in-house patent prosecution experience
- Advanced Degree in Organic Chemistry or a related life-science field
- Admission to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- Excellent academic credentials
Adaptability
- Ability to learn and embrace new skills and best practices as the position evolves and Firm needs change
- Ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team
Collaboration
- Ability to develop relationships and foster teamwork at all levels of the Firm
Communication
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with a diverse group of internal and external clients, attorneys, and staff
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations with tact and discretion
Problem Solving Skills
- Ability and confidence to identify and analyze issues, make decisions, and initiate actions/solutions
- Agility to respond to unexpected challenges, including proactively developing innovative solutions to complex problems while maintaining a professional demeanor
Professionalism
- Ability to maintain composure and demonstrate good judgment
- Valid authorization to work in the U.S.
Why You Should Apply
At Michael Best, we are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that provides a variety of resources designed to enhance its employees’ overall well-being, both at work and at home. Competitive base pay, outstanding benefits, opportunities for learning and growth, programs designed to help you plan for the future, and perks that inspire your downtime are all part of our total compensation package.
Learning & Growth
We are committed to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive both personally and professionally. It's why we invest in and provide the following resources and guidance to help you grow your career with confidence.
- Challenging and Dynamic Role
- Career Development Planning
- Professional Growth Opportunities
- Performance Management and Coaching
- Specialized Training Programs
- Mentorship Program
- Bar Exam/Bar Review Course Reimbursement
Health & Wellness
Our comprehensive benefits support the well-being of our people by prioritizing physical and mental health. From core health coverage to proactive wellness programs, we provide the tools you need to care for yourself at every stage of life.
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision Care
- Health Savings Accounts
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Wellness Program
- Employee and Family Assistance Program
Total Compensation
Our approach combines competitive pay with exceptional benefits and meaningful rewards that reflect the value each team member brings to our firm. We ensure everyone has the support they need to be at their best.
- Competitive Base Pay
- Outstanding Benefits
- Flexible PTO Plus 10 Paid Holidays
- Performance Recognition
- ABA, State and Local Bar Membership Fee Reimbursement
Planning for the Future
We take a proactive approach to future planning by offering benefits designed to safeguard your financial and personal well-being.
- 401(k) with Company Contribution
- Paid medical leave
- Long Term Disability Plan
- Life Insurance
- Critical Illness Insurance
- Paid Parental Leave
Culture & Workplace
Our culture is built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence. As a growing firm with an exciting vision for the future, we offer a modern, flexible working environment that supports productivity, balance, and connection.
- Respected Organization with Collaborative Culture
- Growing Firm with an Exciting Future
- Flexible Remote Work Policy
- Contemporary Work Environment
- Positive and Respectful Work Climate
To be considered for this position, please submit an application via our online portal.
Recruitment Agencies: Michael Best is not accepting unsolicited agency resumes for this position. Please do not forward resumes to our careers email address or any Firm employees. Michael Best is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, Michael Best Strategies LLC, and Michael Best Consulting LLC (collectively known as "Michael Best") are steadfastly committed to providing equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace for employees and applicants for employment that is free from discrimination based upon age, race, religion, color, disability, marital status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact our Recruiting team at 414.225.4999 or careers@michaelbest.com to let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.
For Colorado & Illinois applicants only: The annual compensation range for this role in our Colorado and Illinois offices is between $120,000 and $240,000. The salary range reflects our good-faith expectation for this role at the time of posting. Final compensation will depend on experience, skills, and internal equity. Individuals in this role are eligible to participate in Michael Best’s bonus program, subject to the program’s conditions and restrictions. This position is considered full-time and is therefore eligible to participate in employer-sponsored benefits, including medical, dental, vision, as well as elective or voluntary life, disability, accident coverage, paid holidays, paid time off, and eligible reimbursements. All full-time employees are eligible to participate in the firm’s 401k plan. Application review will begin promptly and will continue until the position is filled. Submit your application by clicking apply now.