Mechanical Engineering Patent Attorney

About This Role

Withers & Rogers, one of Europe's most distinguished and largest dedicated intellectual property law firms, invites applications for a talented and experienced Mechanical Engineering Patent Attorney. Established over 140 years ago, our firm boasts a rich heritage of innovation and client advocacy, consistently delivering strategic intellectual property solutions across a global client base. With strategically located offices in the UK, Paris, and Munich, we serve a diverse portfolio of renowned, innovative organisations spanning Europe, North America, and Asia. This permanent position offers an exceptional opportunity to join a vibrant team dedicated to making intellectual property work to our clients' best advantage. You will play a pivotal role in protecting groundbreaking mechanical innovations, contributing to the firm’s legacy of excellence and supporting a future-forward approach to IP law. We are looking for an individual who shares our passion for intellectual property and possesses a robust technical background in mechanical engineering, coupled with proven expertise in patent law, ready to contribute to a firm that is as passionate as ever about client success.

Key Responsibilities

• Drafting, filing, and prosecuting patent applications for a diverse range of mechanical inventions, both domestically and internationally.
• Conducting comprehensive patentability searches, freedom-to-operate analyses, and infringement assessments to guide client strategies.
• Providing expert legal advice to clients on all aspects of intellectual property, including patent strategy, portfolio management, and enforcement.
• Representing clients in opposition and appeal proceedings before national and and international patent offices, such as the European Patent Office (EPO).
• Engaging directly with inventors and engineers to understand complex mechanical technologies and translate them into robust, legally sound patent claims.
• Managing and expanding client relationships, ensuring a high level of service and strategic IP counsel that aligns with their commercial objectives.
• Staying abreast of the latest developments in mechanical engineering technologies, industry standards, and intellectual property law to provide cutting-edge advice.
• Contributing to business development initiatives and thought leadership within the firm, enhancing our market presence and reputation.
• Potentially mentoring and supervising junior attorneys and trainees, fostering their professional growth and development within the firm.

Requirements & Qualifications

• A fully qualified UK and/or European Patent Attorney with a strong track record in the field.
• Hold a degree (BSc, MSc, or PhD) in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
• Demonstrable experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications across various mechanical fields, showcasing a deep understanding of the process.
• Profound understanding of patent law, practice, and procedure in the UK, Europe, and potentially other key jurisdictions relevant to our global client base.
• Exceptional technical acumen with the ability to quickly grasp and analyse complex mechanical inventions and their commercial applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of articulating intricate legal and technical concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and research capabilities to navigate complex legal and technical challenges.
• A commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with industry trends and evolving IP landscapes.

Skills & Competencies

• Expertise in Patent Prosecution and Portfolio Management.
• Advanced Mechanical Engineering Technical Acumen.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Intellectual Property Law.
• Superior Legal Drafting and Analytical Skills.
• Effective Client Relationship Management.
• Strategic Problem-Solving and Advisory Capabilities.
• Meticulous Attention to Detail and Organisational Skills.

What We Offer

Withers & Rogers is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and stimulating work environment where our attorneys can thrive professionally and personally. We offer a competitive salary package, with a specified range of £60,000.00 per annum, reflecting the expertise and value we place on our professionals. As a firm, we pride ourselves on our collaborative culture, providing ample opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and direct engagement with cutting-edge innovations across various industries. You will benefit from working alongside some of the brightest minds in IP law, contributing to a firm that is at the forefront of protecting intellectual property rights globally and helping innovative organisations succeed.

How to Apply

If you are a highly motivated Mechanical Engineering Patent Attorney seeking a challenging and rewarding permanent position within a leading European IP firm, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your comprehensive CV along with a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience, technical expertise, and why you are the ideal candidate for this pivotal role at Withers & Rogers. Join our team and become part of a legacy dedicated to making intellectual property work for a better, more innovative future.