Patent Engineer - Electrical/Computer

Use your computer or electrical engineering background to build a career at the intersection of technology, invention, and patent law. As a Patent Engineer at Hanley, Flight & Zimmerman, LLC, you will work with inventors on cutting-edge technologies and help protect the ideas that move industries forward.

Hanley, Flight and Zimmerman, LLC (HFZ) is seeking individuals interested in pursuing a career as a patent engineer and, if they choose, a career as a patent attorney. In this role, you will use your technical background to understand inventions, work with inventors and attorneys, help prepare patent applications, develop prosecution strategies and arguments, and support intellectual property portfolio decisions for technology-focused clients.

This position is well suited for recent graduates, graduate students, and experienced engineers who enjoy learning new technologies, writing clearly, and solving complex technical problems in a professional setting. Prior legal experience is not required; HFZ provides training and mentorship as you learn patent prosecution from experienced practitioners.

HFZ works with clients in automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, software, artificial intelligence, wireless technologies, oil and gas, consumer products, biomedical devices, instrumentation, and automation and process control technologies. Our team of seasoned intellectual property practitioners will help you learn patent law from the ground up while exposing you to new technologies every day.

Why consider patent engineering? The role lets you stay close to advanced technology without following a traditional engineering track. You will build writing, analytical, client-facing, and legal skills while learning how inventive ideas become protected assets.

HFZ is a boutique intellectual property firm in the heart of Chicago, specializing in U.S. and foreign patent prosecution and patent counseling. Many of our practitioners worked as engineers and inventors before becoming patent attorneys, so new patent engineers learn from colleagues who understand both the technical and legal sides of the work. That combination helps HFZ serve numerous Fortune 500 technology companies while giving early-career professionals a practical, mentorship-focused environment in which to grow.

Please apply by submitting a cover letter, resume, and transcript, including transfer credits, through the online portal. Attention: Bill O'Connor, Recruitment Manager.

Hanley, Flight & Zimmerman, LLC is committed to diversity as a core value of the firm. We continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees. A diverse and inclusive workforce enriches our work experience and enhances the value of our legal services. HFZ is an Equal Opportunity/M/F/Vet/Disabled Employer.

Requirements

Requirements

• Electrical or computer engineering undergraduate degree
• Excellent undergraduate academic credentials, with a minimum 3.3 GPA preferred
• Strong analytical and writing skills
• Interest in learning patent law and working with advanced technology

Candidate Preferences

• Advanced engineering degrees, graduate coursework, research experience, internships, or engineering-related work experience are preferred.

Benefits

Compensation and benefits include a salary range of $95,000-$110,000 per year, year-end bonus potential based on productivity, a comprehensive program with health, life, and disability insurance, available dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, and hybrid flexibility for this in-office, Chicago-based role. Actual salary may vary based on experience.

bachelors degree graduate degree (preferred but not required)