Patent Counsel

TP-Link, a global leader in consumer networking, consumer electronics, enterprise networking, enterprise surveillance, software, and cloud services, invites you to join our mission in shaping a technology-driven future. We believe technology changes the world for the better! At TP-Link, we are committed to crafting dependable, high-performance products to connect users worldwide with the wonders of technology. Embracing professionalism, innovation, excellence, and simplicity, we assist our clients in achieving remarkable global performance and enable consumers to enjoy a seamless, effortless lifestyle.

At TP-Link, you will be part of a dynamic team working on cutting-edge technology that impacts millions of users worldwide. We offer a collaborative work environment, competitive compensation, and opportunities for professional growth and development. If you are a seasoned legal professional passionate about corporate compliance and privacy, we invite you to apply and contribute to our mission of innovation and excellence.

Overview:

TP-Link is growing our Legal Department!  We recently established an in-house legal department and are building a team of lawyers to guide the company in navigating a wide variety of legal opportunities, issues, and risks.  Do you enjoy creating new things?   Can you provide direction for a nascent endeavor?  Do you like to put your imprint on something and say “I did that”?  If so, this position might be for you. 

TP-Link is seeking an experienced patent portfolio manager to join our dynamic legal team, reporting to the General Counsel. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in patent law, with a focus on strategically managing and growing a global patent portfolio for a technology-driven company. This role involves close collaboration with R&D, product development, and our patent engineers to protect and leverage the company’s intellectual property assets. 

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

• Global Patent Strategy and Patent Portfolio Management:
• Develop and implement the company’s global patent strategy.
• Collaborate with engineers, product developers, and patent engineers to identify and capture innovative technologies and inventions for patent protection.
• Conduct invention disclosure meetings, provide guidance on patentability, and work with inventors to develop strong patent applications.
• Develop and implement strategies for managing and expanding the company’s global patent portfolio, ensuring alignment with business goals and technology roadmaps.
• Conduct regular portfolio reviews to assess the strength, scope, and value of existing patents, identifying opportunities for new filings or pruning of less valuable assets.
• Manage the lifecycle of patents from invention disclosure through prosecution, maintenance, and enforcement.
• Patent Prosecution and Maintenance:
• Maintain patent docketing system. 
• Work closely with outside counsel to draft, file, and prosecute patent applications in the U.S. and internationally, ensuring high-quality patents that align with the company’s strategic objectives.
• Oversee the maintenance of issued patents, including payment of annuities and decisions on patent renewals or abandonments.
• Manage patent engineers. 
• IP Risk Management and Defense:
• Conduct freedom-to-operate (FTO) analyses, patent landscape studies, and competitive IP monitoring to identify and mitigate risks associated with third-party patents.
• Assist in defending the company against patent infringement claims, including managing invalidity searches, preparing non-infringement opinions, and supporting litigation efforts as needed.
• Evaluate potential licensing opportunities and IP acquisitions to enhance the company’s patent portfolio.
• IP Education and Training:
• Develop and deliver training programs for internal teams on intellectual property matters, including patent processes, best practices for invention disclosures, and strategies for protecting IP.
• Serve as a resource for engineers and product teams on patent-related questions and concerns.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Member in good standing of the California state bar, either as a licensed attorney or California Registered In-House Counsel. 
• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• 5+ years of experience in patent law, with a focus on patent portfolio management, prosecution, and strategy.
• Experience in the technology sector, particularly in areas such as software, hardware, telecommunications, or electronics.
• In-house experience at a technology company is highly preferred, but candidates from law firms with relevant experience will also be considered.
• Strong understanding of U.S. and international patent laws, including familiarity with the patent prosecution process in major jurisdictions (e.g., USPTO, EPO, PCT).
• Experience conducting patentability assessments, FTO analyses, and competitive IP landscapes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex legal and technical concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate and build relationships across diverse teams and the ability to mentor junior team members.
• High level of integrity and ethical judgment, with a commitment to upholding the company’s values and legal responsibilities.
• Willingness to be flexible and learn new skills. 
• A true team player with a demonstrated record of mentoring and supporting others.

Benefits

 ·      Free snacks and drinks

·       Fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance (partial coverage for dependents)

·       Contributions to 401k funds

·       Over four weeks of PTO per year

·       Bi-annual pay increases

·       Health and wellness benefits, including free gym membership

·       Quarterly team-building events