International Filing Paralegal III

JOB SUMMARY:

The IFD Paralegal (III) works as part of a team to provide firm-wide service in all aspects of the foreign patent filing process. The IFD Paralegal closely manages the deadlines associated with foreign patent prosecution for assigned clients and works collaboratively and effectively with attorneys, clients, and other staff.  Additionally, the IFD Paralegal will coordinate with the department supervisors to aid with development and documentation of processes and procedures and assist with training of newer paralegals as needed. The IFD Paralegal also works with attorneys, team members and other staff on additional patent prosecution work such as due diligence, and other special projects. The IFD Paralegal operates with a high level of independence and is an active team member positively contributing to the department and firm. The billable goal for this position is 1200 hours and requires the ability to work additional hours to complete assigned responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Prepares and files Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Applications in accordance with firm procedures.
• Works with foreign associates to file foreign patent and design application in foreign jurisdictions.
• Reviews and reports foreign patent related correspondence from foreign patent offices. 
• Prepares documents, reports, and correspondence for assigned clients.
• Manages docket relating to foreign patent prosecution deadlines to ensure timely completion of required actions, including timely reminders and follow up for instructions. 
• Maintains the integrity of electronic data relating to clients’ foreign intellectual property in accordance with firm policy and procedure (including for client databases as appropriate).
• Develops and maintains knowledge and understanding of patent office rules and procedures in foreign areas of patent prosecution. Routinely assist with implementation of foreign patent rule changes, including drafting announcements, providing recommendations for practice and template changes, etc.
• Assists department manager(s) with development of documentation of processes and procedures on a regular basis.
• Routinely tests new software, databases and relevant systems related to the foreign filing work. 
• Participates regularly in pilot groups and/or product or new project deployments, including foreign patent databases and electronic resources. 
• Routinely assists with training of newer paralegals by serving as a resource on procedures, patent office rules and assisting with work product review and/or quality control checks.
• Routinely assists with additional patent prosecution related projects.
• Consistently meets/exceeds the department 1200 billable hour goal and consistently adheres to firm and department procedures. 
• Regularly works as part of the team to lead, collaborate, and implement larger scale projects.
• Promotes a positive work environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of seven (7+) years of foreign patent prosecution experience in a law firm or corporate setting.
• Highly proficient in MS Office as well as computer and database management skills.
• Experience with CPi, IPDAS, and general time entry. 
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate in a clear and concise manner.
• Strong time management, prioritization, problem-solving, and organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a high-pressure environment. 
• Exceptional attention to accuracy and detail.
• Able to dedicate additional efforts and increase work hours to successfully accomplish assigned projects/work.  
• Comprehensive knowledge of legal terminology, rules, regulations, and procedures specific to practice area.
• Ability to adhere to established work schedule, but with flexibility required to respond to workload demands including overtime requests when needed.  
• Punctual and reliable and able to meet set deadlines.  
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of matters and other firm business information.

Wolf Greenfield offers a comprehensive benefit package focused on the overall well-being of firm employees. Our benefits include multiple health care plan options, vision and dental insurance,  flexible spending accounts/health saving accounts and life insurance. Eligibility for our employer sponsored 401(k) plan includes an employer match and discretionary profit sharing. The firm is invested in our employees development by providing tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities. Additionally, WGS offers further benefits and perks focused on employee well-being including generous paid time off; including sick time and vacation time, parental leave, commuter benefits, charitable matching gift program, well-being support and much more!  

Wolf Greenfield does not offer visa sponsorship. All job openings are subject to export control regulations. 

Any offer of employment is subject to the successful completion of a background check. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. 

Physical Demands: The firm will strive to provide reasonable accommodations, as requested, to enable an employee with a disability to successfully perform this position in our office setting.  Frequent communication is an essential aspect of this position and employees must be able to exchange timely and accurate information in a variety of situations. This position may also encompass maintaining a stationary position for long periods of time (at least up to 50% of the workday) with occasional movement, as well as lifting and/or moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.  Other essential functions may apply and employees working remotely have the same or similar requirements.  

Work Environment: The office work environment of the firm is characteristic of the environment the job holder will encounter. In this typical office setting, an employee will encounter standard office equipment and any noise associated with that equipment. The noise level is usually quiet to moderate.  The office setting of Wolf Greenfield requires the ability to manage multiple work priorities along with frequent interruptions.