IP Docket Manager

We are always seeking talented, motivated, growth-minded, and creative individuals. Our firm is committed to providing employee support and advancement, while embracing inclusion and innovation as keys to a stronger future.

We invite you to explore the position below and to submit your application to join our team!

Job Description: The Intellectual Property (IP) Docket Manager will oversee and lead the firm-wide Intellection Property docketing department staff.  The IP Docket Manager ensures that the department adheres to firm policies and procedures on a daily basis.  Utilizing effective interpersonal communication, the IP Docket Manager handles the day-to-day training of the docketing staff and other personnel as required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Manage docketing staff. Recruit, onboard new hires, approve timecards and leave requests, coordinate backup coverage, conduct performance reviews, and collaborate with HR on any personnel issues.

• Motivate and guide team members to achieve optimal performance by providing constructive feedback and coaching to team members; foster a positive and collaborative work environment. 

• Develop training programs for the docketing team to keep them updated on new rules and requirements, ensuring they can perform their responsibilities accurately and promptly.

• Identify and analyze problem areas within the team or department; develop and implement effective solutions to resolve issues. 

• Oversee IP management system to ensure data integrity, accuracy, and compliance with rules across multiple worldwide jurisdictions.

• Stay current on trends, developments, and legislative rulings impacting patent and trademark administration, as well as up-to-date USPTO procedural changes.

• Conduct research to clarify patent and trademark rules.

• Serve as a subject matter expert on IP procedures and regulations.

• Organize and delegate tasks by working closely with the IP Operations Manager, Practice Management, and Paralegal Support Administrator to manage routine and complex assignments.

• Compile and ensure the accuracy and completeness of the docket manual and any additional SOPs.

• Collaborate with management for process approval on process changes.

• Actively participate in the IP Best Practices committee.

• Work closely with multiple departments to assist with firm workflow.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of Trademark and Patent prosecution from start to finish.

• Proficient in IP Management Systems such as Anaqua and CPI.

• Exceptional communication and client interaction abilities.

• Strong organizational, writing, and proofreading skills.

• High level of professionalism, sound judgement and discretion.

• Ability to deliver quality client service to both internal and external clients.

• Ability to multi-task, work independently with minimal supervision, and work under pressure with high-quality results in a fast-paced team environment.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Proficient in project and Change management.

• Ability to collaborate within a team environment across practice groups and offices.

• Willingness to learn and develop skills and stay current in industry trends in Intellectual Property rules and regulations.

• Ability to accept changing assignments and priorities.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Education and/or Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree or any combination of training, education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position.

• Minimum five (5) years of progressive Intellectual Property management experience.

• Intellectual Property prosecution paralegal experience preferred.

• Experience with database file management systems such as iManage.

The Firm will comply with any applicable city or state workplace mandates in effect in regards to Covid-19. 

This position description is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of the job.  The statements contained in the position description are not necessarily all-inclusive and additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned as determined by business needs.

This position description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

By applying for this position, you agree and understand that Troutman Pepper Locke will process your Personal Information pursuant to the terms of our Worker and Applicant Global Privacy Notice. If you have questions about our data handling practices, or you are a resident of California, the United Kingdom, or the European Union and wish to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us at privacy@troutman.com. 

Equal Employment Opportunity
Troutman Pepper Locke adheres to a policy of equal opportunity and will make all employment decisions, which include hiring, promotion, transfer, demotion, evaluation, compensation and separation, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, pregnancy, citizenship, disability, genetic information, marital or armed forces status and any other classification as protected by law.

Compensation is dependent on several factors, such as position, location, education, training, and/or experience.