Intellectual Property (IP) Paralegal

Greenberg Traurig (GT), a global law firm with locations across the world in 15 countries, has an exciting employment opportunity for you. We offer competitive compensation and an excellent benefits package, along with the opportunity to work within an innovative and collaborative environment.

Join our Intellectual Property Prosecution team as Paralegal located in our Austin office.

We are seeking a highly skilled professional who thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. The ideal candidate possesses strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in every task. With a dedicated work ethic and a can-do attitude, you will take initiative and approach challenges with confidence and resilience. Excellent communication skills are essential for collaborating effectively across teams and delivering exceptional client service. With a client-focused mindset and an initiative-taking approach, you will play a critical role in driving success, anticipating needs, and providing strategic solutions. If you are someone who demonstrates initiative, adaptability, and innovation, we invite you to join our team.

This role will be based in our Austin office, on an onsite basis with an option to work remotely one day a week.

Position Summary

The Intellectual Property (IP) Paralegal position will provide organizational and practice specific assistance to attorneys in the IP Department by managing patent prosecution matters, including performing related patent prosecution services and support Also supports the department with general administrative duties and special projects related to IP matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Manages and organizes U.S. patent docket and processes for multiple IP attorneys

• Prepares client formalities for execution (e.g., Declarations, Assignments & Power of Attorney), eFiles Provisional, U.S. Utility, Continuation, Divisional, Design, PCT & 371 national stage applications, reissue applications, and follow-up on patent prosecution submission requirements such as response to office actions and issue fee payments with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office USPTO (USPTO), including formalities and Information disclosure statements

• Performs assignment searches, assignment recordings, and reviews chain of title

• Docket management and calendaring requiring significant awareness of and sensitivity to time management and filing deadlines

• Manages and updates files with USPTO Pair database and prepares responses as needed

• Draft Office Action Responses and shells for Office Action Responses.

• Provides client management support by maintaining client portals, updating client status charts, running various client docket reports for portfolio analysis, and communication with clients regarding upcoming U.S. patent deadlines, requests for instructions, formalities reminders, and filings

• Calculates Patent Term Adjustments and processes payment of Issue Fees

• Reviews, files, and prepares Information Disclosure Statements and accompanying documents

• Effects national phase entry of PCT applications and prepares and files continuing applications

• Corresponds with foreign associates, oversees payment of foreign associates' invoices, and prepares reporting letters to client

• Effects portfolio transfers and manages multi-client portfolios

• Files and assists in prosecution of design applications (including convention deadlines for filing abroad)

• Proofs and edits patent applications, formal documents, and office actions, and prepares office actions’ shell responses.

• Meets all ethical and professional requirements of the firm and keeps up-to-date on all learning and development requirements at the firm

• Meets internal and external deadlines, and successful time management, including during periods of prolonged intense work during and after regular office hours

• Fulfills firm administrative responsibilities, including, but not limited to, timekeeping and billing requirements

• Assists with other department activities as needed, and performs additional duties and responsibilities as assigned

• Candidate should be flexible to work overtime as needed

Qualifications

Skills & Competencies

• High attention to detail, outstanding organizational skills, and the ability to manage time effectively Ability to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines, adapt to a fast-paced, high pressure environment to achieve business goals and objectives

• High attention to detail, outstanding organizational skills, and the ability to manage time effectively

• Ability to maintain composure, positive outlook, and professionalism Recognize confidential, sensitive, and proprietary information and maintain confidentiality Highly motivated, self-starter who can work well under minimal supervision, as well as take a proactive approach in being team-oriented Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross-functional, collaborative team

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written), and professional demeanor and presentation, including active listening and ability to convey information clearly

• Ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations, including unfavorable situations and /or when constructive criticism is given

Education & Prior Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree required, Certificate in Paralegal studies from an accredited institution preferred; equivalent experience considered

• Certified Paralegal a plus

• Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience in a professional environment. Law firm experience preferred

• Extensive knowledge of U.S. patent rules and procedure; knowledge of PCT and/or national laws of other countries

Technology

• Proficiency in Windows-based software and Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook

• Exceptional computer skills with the ability to learn new software applications quickly

• Previous experience with Filesite is a plus

• Understanding of AI capabilities, limitations, and responsible use in a professional environment

• Familiarity with, or willingness to learn, firm-approved AI tools (e.g., Copilot, ChatGPT, or similar platforms) to support daily workflow and/or improve work quality 

GT is an EEO employer with an inclusive workplace committed to merit-based consideration and review without regard to an individual’s race, sex, or other protected characteristics and to the principles of non-discrimination on any protected basis.