Patent Prosecution Assistant – Hybrid

Merchant & Gould P.C.

Patent Prosecution Assistant supporting intellectual property law firm's IDS segment. Preparing and filing IDS forms, assisting with general patent prosecution and facilitating client reporting tasks.

Posted 6/30/2026full-timeMinneapolis • Minnesota • 🇺🇸 United StatesJunior💰 $55,000 - $65,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates proficiency in preparing and filing IDS forms in compliance with USPTO rules, along with strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate reference databases. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential for supporting legal teams and client reporting.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Patent Prosecution SupportUSPTO Filing ProceduresMicrosoft Office ProficiencyIP Management Systems ExperienceAttention to Detail

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

IDS Form PreparationReference Database ManagementPrior Art TrackingDocument Submission via USPTO EFS-WebData Accuracy

Soft Skills

Strong Organizational SkillsVerbal CommunicationWritten CommunicationWillingness to Learn

Tools & Technologies

USPTO EFS-WebPatent CenterIP Management Systems

Industry Keywords

Patent ProsecutionIntellectual PropertyLegal AdministrationClient ReportingBilling Entries

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

The Patent Prosecution Assistant plays a key role in supporting the firm’s IDS segment
Prepare and file IDS forms and ensure correct formatting of references in compliance with USPTO rules
Track and compile prior art references cited in related cases
Maintain and update IDS reference databases
Coordinate with legal assistants and attorneys
Assist with uploading and submitting IDS documents via USPTO EFS-Web or Patent Center
Assist with special tasks or duties as requested by manager
Organize and maintain files in accordance with firm and client guidelines
Help prepare materials for client reporting, billing entries, and internal audits

Requirements

What you’ll need

1–2 years of administrative experience in a legal or IP-related role
Familiarity with USPTO forms, filing procedures, and IDS requirements strongly preferred
Proficiency in Microsoft Office
experience with IP management systems
Excellent attention to detail and data accuracy
Strong organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and meet critical deadlines
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Willingness to learn new skills/software as needed

Benefits

Comp & perks

a competitive salary
a comprehensive benefits package that includes employee medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D insurance
short- and long-term disability
401(k) match
ten firm holidays