Job description
Join a fast-growing tech leader delivering innovative products worldwide. We are seeking a Senior Intellectual Property Counsel to manage and navigate a demanding IP program, partner with product and engineering teams, and drive the company's patent and trademark strategy.
\nYou will own global IP portfolio development, work cross-functionally, and advise on freedom-to-operate, licensing, and enforcement matters. The ideal candidate has strong technical aptitude, a strategic mindset, and a track record of successfully defending IP in high-stakes environments.
Responsibility
- Lead the development and execution of the company's global IP strategy across patents, trademarks, and trade secrets.
- Serve as the primary IP counsel for product teams, advising on FTO, patentability, and potential infringement risks.
- Oversee patent prosecution, office actions, and patent portfolio optimization in collaboration with external counsel.
- Manage trademark clearance, registration, enforcement, and brand protection across multiple jurisdictions.
- Coordinate IP licensing, technology transfer, and collaboration agreements with partners and customers.
- Develop internal processes for IP risk assessment, invention disclosure, and employee training on IP best practices.
- Monitor IP litigation landscape, respond to enforcement actions, and manage relationships with external IP firms.
- Provide ongoing IP diligence support for M&A, investments, and strategic partnerships.
Qualification
- J.D. from an accredited law school with active bar admission in California or eligible to register as in-house counsel in CA.
- 5+ years of experience in intellectual property law, preferably with in-house tech company exposure.
- Strong technical background in software, electronics, or related fields; optional engineering degree is a plus.
- Proven track record in patent prosecution, IP portfolio development, and licensing strategies.
- Excellent negotiation, drafting, and communication skills with ability to influence cross-functional teams.
- Experience in FTO analysis, IP litigation support, and working with international IP offices is preferred.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and mentor junior IP staff.
- Fluent in English; additional language capabilities a plus.