We are always seeking talented, motivated, growth-minded, and creative individuals. Our firm is committed to providing employee support and advancement, while embracing inclusion and innovation as keys to a stronger future.

We invite you to explore the position below and to submit your application to join our team!

The Intellectual Property (IP) Docket Specialist provides quality control over all statutory Patent deadlines added or removed from the firm’s IP Management System and works collaboratively with the IP Docket Manager to create and implement training materials and execution of training plans.  The IP Docket Specialist maintains their assigned Patent docket portfolios according to established policies and procedures, performs all job functions related to review of documents, and exercise discretion and confidentiality in maintaining contact with clients, attorneys, and staff for docket-related matters.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Conduct accurate and timely quality control reviews of all US and Non-US statutory Patent docketing entries for the IP Docket team.

• Assist in the creation and implementation of new training materials.

• Support the development and implementation of new docketing policies and procedures to enhance user service while mitigating risk.

• Manage incoming data quality from transferring-in portfolios and provide specialized care to attorney teams throughout the transfer-in process.

• Provide back-up for the Docketing Specialists to maintain standard operating procedures as outlined by the firm.

• Offer guidance and address docket-related inquiries and issues for the Intellectual Property team, including attorneys and staff.

• Ensure the docket database is accurately maintained and generate reports as needed or upon request.

• Collaborate closely with Docketing Specialists and team members to achieve the goals of the IP Sections and the firm.

• Maintain positive contact with attorneys, staff, and clients while ensuring the confidentiality of the Docket Department and the firm’s clients.

• Ensure the accuracy and completeness of docketing documents received from the USPTO, adhering to the requirements set by the Code of Federal Regulations, clients, and all other non-US government agencies or non-US associates.

• Provide detailed, accurate information to IP attorneys and staff regarding client information and deadlines, supporting the effective operations of the Docket Department.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Possess a strong understanding of both US and Non-US Patent statutory laws

• Demonstrate effective communication skills, both verbal and written.

• Ability to work under pressure while producing a high volume of information with a high level of accuracy.

• Excellent proofreading skills and strong attention to detail.

• Ability to identify and analyze complex issues and problems related to managing data.

• Ability to multi-task and work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively with team members.

• Collaborate closely with all departments to understand their processes and assist with the day-to-day operations of the firm.

• Ability to multi-task and work independently with minimal supervision, and work under pressure with high-quality results.

• Effective interpersonal skills to communicate and follow instructions effectively from a diverse group of attorneys and staff.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Education and/or Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree or any combination of training, education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential duties of the position.

• Equivalent specialized training or certification, e.g., paralegal studies, is beneficial.

• Minimum eight (8) years of progressive Intellectual Property experience as part of providing necessary quality control to the Docketing department

• Experience with docket software applications.

• Experience with and strong understanding of domestic/foreign patent matters.

The Firm will comply with any applicable city or state workplace mandates in effect in regards to Covid-19. 

This position description is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of the job.  The statements contained in the position description are not necessarily all-inclusive and additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned as determined by business needs.

This position description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

By applying for this position, you agree and understand that Troutman Pepper Locke will process your Personal Information pursuant to the terms of our Worker and Applicant Global Privacy Notice. If you have questions about our data handling practices, or you are a resident of California, the United Kingdom, or the European Union and wish to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us at [email protected]. 

Equal Employment Opportunity
Troutman Pepper Locke adheres to a policy of equal opportunity and will make all employment decisions, which include hiring, promotion, transfer, demotion, evaluation, compensation and separation, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, pregnancy, citizenship, disability, genetic information, marital or armed forces status and any other classification as protected by law.

Compensation is dependent on several factors, such as position, location, market, education, training, and/or experience.