Patent Docketing Specialist

Wilson Sonsini is the premier legal advisor to technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises worldwide. We represent companies at every stage of development, from entrepreneurial start-ups to multibillion-dollar global corporations, as well as the venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that finance and advise them. The firm has approximately 1,100 attorneys in 17 offices: 13 in the U.S., two in China, and two in Europe. Our broad spectrum of practices and entrepreneurial spirit allow exceptional opportunities for professional achievement and career growth. Wilson Sonsini is seeking a Patent Docketing Specialist to join our Intellectual Property docketing team. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and maintaining all aspects of the patent computerized docket system, working closely with practice group lawyers, staff, and third-party docketing vendors to ensure efficient and effective patent support services. This position is available as a fully remote opportunity.

Calendar dates related to patent application filings, formalities, office actions, and maintenance fees

Download and file electronic correspondence from the USPTO, foreign patent offices, or foreign agents into the document management system

Circulate incoming correspondence from the USPTO, foreign patent offices, or foreign agents to the appropriate attorney teams

Prepare firm-standard and custom docket reports

Proactively monitor due dates to ensure deadlines are met on time

Review outstanding dates in the docketing database, consult with supervisors, and advance or de-docket as instructed

Open and close matters in the docketing database as needed

Set up new cases in the docketing database

Assist with intakes and transfers related to new clients, attorney hires, attorney departures, or changes in counsel

Participate in IP practice group and docketing team meetings

Provide backup support to other docketing staff as needed

Perform other tasks as assigned

5+ years of automated patent docketing experience; candidates with more experience are also considered

Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent experience

Familiarity with electronic filing systems and paperless docketing

Extensive knowledge of CPI and the USPTO's Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR) system

Knowledge of U.S., PCT, and foreign patent docketing procedures

Understanding of rules and deadlines for domestic and foreign patents

High level of accuracy and attention to detail • Ability to manage multiple priorities • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, and Excel)

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Strong organizational skills

Ability to perform duties with minimal direction

Ability to communicate and collaborate virtually with colleagues

The primary location for this job posting is in Palo Alto, but other locations may be listed. The actual base pay offered will depend upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, level of education, professional certifications and licenses, and work location. The anticipated pay range for this position is as follows: Palo Alto, New York, San Francisco: $39.23 - $53.08 per hour.
Austin, Boston, Boulder, Century City, Delaware, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, San Diego, Seattle, Washington, D.C., and all other locations: $35.14 - $47.55 per hour. The compensation for this position may include overtime and a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. We offer a highly competitive salary and benefits package. Benefits information can be found here. Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).