Job description
NovaTech Innovations is seeking a Senior Intellectual Property Counsel to lead and grow our global IP portfolio at the intersection of software, hardware, and AI. You will partner with R&D, product, and business leaders to secure robust patent, trademark, and licensing strategies that protect our innovations and enable market leadership. This is a high-visibility, strategic legal role in a fast-paced tech environment where your counsel directly shapes our product roadmaps and partnerships.
As part of the Legal & IP team, you will drive cross-functional initiatives, build scalable IP processes, and mentor junior team members while maintaining practical business orientation.
Responsibility
- Lead and manage the global IP portfolio (patents and trademarks) across software, hardware, and AI initiatives.
- Develop and execute patent prosecution strategies, including drafting, filing, and coordinating with inventors and outside counsel.
- Draft, negotiate, and manage licensing, technology transfer, and cross-licensing agreements with strategic partners.
- Perform freedom-to-operate, landscape analyses, and competitive intelligence to inform product strategy.
- Supervise IP docket management, deadlines, and interaction with outside counsel; mentor IP paralegals and junior attorneys.
- Collaborate with R&D, product, and business teams to align IP strategy with business goals and product plans.
- Oversee IP diligence for partnerships, commercial agreements, and M&A activities; contribute to risk assessment and remediation.
Qualification
- Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent from an ABA-accredited law school; active bar admission in Washington State or eligible for admission.
- 5+ years of hands-on IP law experience, with a focus on patent prosecution in tech (software, hardware, AI) and trademark protection.
- Proven track record drafting and prosecuting patents before the USPTO; familiarity with international offices is a plus.
- Strong licensing, technology transfer, and contract negotiation skills with a business-minded approach.
- Excellent analytical, writing, and oral communication abilities; ability to translate complex IP concepts for non-legal stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage competing priorities, and mentor junior staff.
- Experience with IP due diligence for strategic partnerships, licensing deals, or M&A; comfort with fast-paced deal work.