Counsel, Intellectual Property

At Dow, we believe in putting people first and we’re passionate about delivering integrity, respect and safety to our customers, our employees and the planet.  

Our people are at the heart of our solutions. They reflect the communities we live in and the world where we do business. Their diversity is our strength. We’re a community of relentless problem solvers that offers the daily opportunity to contribute with your perspective, transform industries and shape the future. Our purpose is simple - to deliver a sustainable future for the world through science and collaboration. If you’re looking for a challenge and meaningful role, you’re in the right place. 

About you and this role

Dow has an opportunity for an Intellectual Property (IP) Attorney. The preferred location for this position is Midland, MI, however Lake Jackson, TX or Collegeville, PA may also be considered.

In this role, you will serve as an IP Attorney that independently provides legal counsel across a wide range of intellectual property issues, in consultation with internal and external legal experts as appropriate. This requires in-depth conceptual and practical knowledge in job discipline and basic knowledge of related job disciplines to solve complex problems. You may lead projects or project steps within a broader project, with manageable risks and resource requirements, or may have accountability for on-going activities or objectives. You will act as a resource for colleagues with less experience and work independently with minimal guidance.

Responsibilities

A major focus will be the drafting and prosecution of patent applications (at least 70% of time). Your key responsibilities will include:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in multiple countries for one or more Dow businesses, functions and technologies (including oversight of outside counsel).
• Consult with and counsel Dow businesses and functions to define patent strategies and control costs.
• Negotiate and draft technology agreements including joint development agreements, license agreements, and M&A agreements.
• Prepare legal opinions and approve outside counsel opinions relating to patent infringement and validity.
• Provide counsel and assist in negotiations and litigation to resolve IP disputes with third parties.
• Provide legal counsel to clients.
• Provide client legal training and education on a variety of intellectual property related topics.
• Review and drafts legal documents.
• Manage outside counsel and other external resources.
• Collaborate with internal legal subject matter experts and other Company resources.
• Direct paralegals and other support staff.

Qualifications

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science or a related science.
• Juris Doctor or Master of Laws.
• A minimum of 2 years practicing as a Patent Attorney.
• Admission to and in good standing in a State Bar or eligible for admission.
• Registered to practice and in good standing in the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
• A minimum requirement for this U.S. based position is the ability to work legally in the United States. No visa sponsorship/support is available for this position, including for any type of U.S. permanent residency (green card) process.

Your Skills

• Initiative – Must be a self-starter willing to take a strategic perspective to legal challenges, assume a leadership role, and support team endeavors; must possess legal knowledge and skills required to recognize, analyze, and resolve a variety of legal issues; must be able to perform under pressure in a professional and mature manner; must be able to recognize and take appropriate risks.
• Teamwork/Interpersonal Effectiveness – Requires ability to think and act strategically and handle challenging legal issues while letting go and trusting other professionals (paralegals and other staff) to perform their core legal responsibilities. A flexible style and excellent interpersonal skills are essential characteristics required to interact effectively with a variety of people inside and outside of Company. Must be able to work (not always in a lead role) as part of a cross functional team and build effective client relationships. Close teamwork and collegiality with others on the legal team is essential. Respect for inclusiveness and fostering diversity of thought and style are critical.
• Professional Ethics – Intense dedication and commitment to the job is essent