US Patent Paralegal Assistant

Wilson Sonsini is the premier legal advisor to technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises worldwide. We represent companies at every stage of development, from entrepreneurial start-ups to multibillion-dollar global corporations, as well as the venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that finance and advise them. The firm has approximately 1,200 attorneys in 19 offices: 14 in the U.S., three in China, and two in Europe. Our broad spectrum of practices and entrepreneurial spirit allow our staff exceptional opportunities for professional achievement and career growth.

The firm's Patent and Innovations Group has an immediate opening for a US Patent Paralegal Assistant. This position is responsible for assigned tasks and works under the direction and guidance of attorneys, patent agents, IP specialists, and the department leadership team.

Responsibilities:

• Audit reference database; perform cross cite comparisons, and provide a reference check to the working teams for upcoming response to office actions.
• Add new references to the reference database as needed.
• Review and audit specifications for references.
• Assist with drafting initial IDS filings that require a fast turnaround such as Track One and PPH expedited filings.
• Assist with drafting IDS filings upon filing an RCE to minimize applicant delay.
• Assist with transfer-in process and managing instructions to MaxVal; complete IDS transfer-in checklist.
• Upload references to the Patent Center workbench.
• Report Information Disclosure Statement filings and Issue Fees paid to clients.
• Draft Patent Status Reports for paralegals to facilitate reports and budgets.
• Update Freedom to Operate presentations.
• Assist paralegals with setting up data rooms and document production for due diligence projects.
• Assist with other duties as assigned.

Experience & Education:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience, preferably in a law firm environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customers
• Excellent computer proficiency (MS Office - Word, Excel and Outlook)
• Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, while maintaining a positive attitude and providing exemplary customer service
• Ability to work independently and to carry out assignments to completion within parameters of instructions given, prescribed routines, and standard accepted practices
• Bachelor's degree and/or paralegal certificate is preferred
• Occasional overtime work may be necessary

The primary location for this job posting is in Palo Alto, but other locations are also listed. The actual base pay offered will depend upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, level of education, professional certifications and licenses, and work location. The anticipated pay range for this position is as follows:

San Francisco and Silicon Valley: $34.65 - $46.88 per hour

Austin, Boston, Boulder, District of Columbia, Los Angeles, New York, San Diego, Seattle, and Wilmington: $32.92 - $44.54 per hour

Salt Lake City and all other locations: $29.45 - $39.85 per hour

The compensation for this position may include overtime and a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. We offer a highly competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits information can be found here. Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).