Patent Application Filing Assistant

Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP seeks a Patent Application Filing Assistant for its Glendale, California office. The Patent Application Filing Assistant will, with minimum guidance, open and process new incoming applications within the allotted time period and in accordance with client and attorney specifications. This role is also responsible for managing electronic files including opening new electronic files and maintaining files according to firm protocol.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Open new matters for incoming patent applications
• Process new applications in accordance with established client and attorney specifications and within the allotted time period.
• Provide administrative support for attorneys/timekeepers.
• Review and edit prepared application filing documents for accuracy, including accurate proofreading.
• Accurately maintain client e-files through completion of the initial intake process.
• Contribute to a team environment.
• Establish and maintain an ongoing positive business relationship with clients, attorneys, paralegals, and staff.
• Lend support to other secretaries/assistants when needed.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required. College-level courses/degree preferred.
• Legal Secretary/Assistant experience in a law firm environment preferred.
• One year of patent prosecution experience preferred.
• Above average proficiency in Microsoft Word with strong and accurate typing skills.
• Excellent proofreading, editing, grammar, communication, and organizational skills, as well as an ability to prioritize.
• Devotion to excellence for all responsibilities, including those that are more repetitive and administrative in nature.
• Maintain high levels of productivity and accuracy.
• Ability to absorb training quickly and efficiently. 
• Identify opportunities for streamlining processes and recommend appropriate solutions to improve efficiencies.
• Demonstrate a positive attitude towards work.
• Work efficiently under minimal supervision.
• Adhere to and support the firm's standards, policies, and procedures.
• Manage a heavy IP desk, including managing calendar and planning workload.
• Maintain cooperative, diplomatic working relationships with co-workers, attorneys, and supervisors; work as part of a team and collaborate with colleagues.
• Complete projects under tight deadlines even when there are competing requirements and changes in assignments.

Compensation: $46,000-$73,000 is the estimated salary range for this role in Glendale, California.  Starting salary will be determine based on qualifications and experience.