April 10, 2026

Patent Specialist

Intellectual PropertyPatent Prosecution

Patent Specialist

K&L GatesOrange County

Practice area

Intellectual Property · Patent Prosecution

PQE

1+ years

Location

Orange County, California

Salary

$73,000 - $110,000

Employment type

Full-time

Overview

The Patent Specialist will be based in the Orange County office and provide direct support to attorneys and Patent Agents.
Core responsibilities include preparing and filing U.S., WIPO, and foreign patent applications, Office Action responses, Information Disclosure Statements, and assignments.
Manage PCT and national/regional stage filings, coordinate directly with foreign associates, and report mail and deadlines to clients, ensuring compliance with global IP rules.
Oversee daily docket and deadlines, analyze U.S. patents for Patent Term Adjustment, and utilize patent analytical software for worldwide portfolio data.
Provide comprehensive legal secretarial support, including creating and editing legal documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, as well as managing Outlook communications and calendars.
Assist with time entry, proforma review, client invoicing, expense reports, and utilize firm systems for file openings, conflict checks, and document management.
Requires proven command of U.S. and/or foreign patent prosecution, strong attention to detail, the ability to manage multiple tasks, and effective communication skills.
A high school diploma or equivalent is required; a college degree is preferred, along with knowledge of basic Intellectual Property legal terminology.
The work arrangement is hybrid, requiring 4 days onsite and 1 day remote after an initial training period.
The annual salary range for this position is $73,000 to $110,000, with compensation determined by prior experience, relevant expertise, and market factors.
A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k), paid time off (20-25 days annually), and parental leave.

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Trusted recruiters

Work with a recruiter who has a real relationship with the hiring team and comes recommended by your peers.

Top recruiter for this opening
Kate Reder Sheikh
Legal Recruiter
Major, Lindsey & Africa
Why talk to Kate Reder Sheikh?
Veronica Fulton joined K&L Gates's San Francisco office in the Corporate group.
Kate was great to work with! She is prompt, has a strong understanding of the market and is always on hand when you need advice, someone to talk to, or just a small reassurance. She was recommended to me by a friend and I too would recommend her to any friends looking for new opportunities.
Veronica Fulton
K&L Gates • San Francisco

Last updated: April 10, 2026

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