Mechanical Engineer Patent Agent

MNF Global • Washington, DC

1d • $120,000 - $220,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

This Intellectual Property team focuses on transforming high-value innovations into enforceable patent protection in mission-critical jurisdictions. The group supports clients across the full patent lifecycle - from invention harvesting and prosecution strategy to portfolio development and clearance analysis.
The practice works closely with product-driven companies developing complex mechanical and electromechanical systems, including technologies involving consumer-facing devices, integrated mechanical assemblies, motors, fluid handling systems, thermal management, materials, and embedded control features.
Patent agents collaborate directly with senior practitioners and in-house engineering teams on large, active patent portfolios, with an emphasis on strategic claim development, consistency across families, and long-term portfolio value. The work is hands-on, fast-moving, and closely tied to real-world product design and commercialization cycles.
A patent agent with a background in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related disciplines) is sought to join a collaborative patent prosecution team. This role offers meaningful responsibility and visibility within the practice, including drafting and prosecuting patent applications, conduct freedom to operate studies, and analyze patents to clear products for market.
Patent agents are expected to take ownership of matters, work independently while collaborating closely with attorneys and clients, and contribute substantively to prosecution decision-making.

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field
• Strong background in mechanical systems, consumer products, devices, or hardware-based technologies
• Experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications with increasing independence
• Comfort working directly with inventors and technical teams
• Ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Excellent analytical, writing, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail
• Collaborative, professional approach in a team-oriented environment
• USPTO registration preferred (or eligibility to sit for the patent bar)

Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications covering mechanical and electromechanical technologies
• Support patent protection for consumer-oriented products and systems across multiple product generations
• Conduct invention disclosure reviews and work directly with engineers to identify protectable concepts
• Develop and execute cohesive prosecution strategies across related patent families
• Draft high-quality Office Action responses, including substantive claim amendments and persuasive technical arguments
• Conduct and participate in examiner interviews, working toward commercially meaningful claim scope
• Perform freedom-to-operate and clearance analyses for products entering competitive markets
• Analyze prior art with an eye toward design alternatives, manufacturability, and product differentiation
• Coordinate closely with attorneys, agents, and technical specialists to maintain consistency and quality across portfolios
• Present technical and strategic recommendations clearly to colleagues and clients
• Contribute to the growth and long-term strength of large, product-focused IP portfolios

Benefits

• Salary range: $120,000 – $220,000 (depending on experience and location)
• Bonus eligible
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and professional development support

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level