Patent Attorney (In-House, Medical Devices)

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.

Position Description

The Patent Attorney at Applied Medical plays a pivotal role in protecting the company’s intellectual property and supporting innovation across advanced surgical technologies. This position is responsible for drafting and prosecuting U.S. and international patent applications, guiding inventors through the disclosure process, and contributing to strategic portfolio development. As a key member of the Legal team, the Patent Attorney collaborates with cross-functional groups to ensure Applied Medical’s innovations are well-documented, protected, and aligned with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications, ensuring timely and accurate filings
• Mentor inventors through the disclosure process and conduct detailed inventor interviews
• Develop and manage strategic patent portfolios aligned with business and product goals
• Provide clear and actionable patent counseling to internal stakeholders across departments
• Conduct freedom-to-operate and patentability assessments, delivering concise recommendations
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in research and development, manufacturing, and corporate development
• Support intellectual property strategy for medical device innovations and surgical technologies
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of USPTO filing practices and global patent regulations

Position Requirements

• Active registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
• Juris Doctorate (JD) and active membership with a U.S. State Bar
• Bachelor’s or an equivalent degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related field
• Minimum of three years of recent demonstrable hands-on experience in patent drafting and prosecution
• Strong understanding of USPTO procedures and docketing practices
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex concepts
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• High attention to detail, strong work ethic, and creative problem-solving abilities

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Secure robust patent protection for innovative surgical technologies
• Guide inventors through the IP process, fostering a culture of innovation and proactive disclosure
• Shape strategic patent portfolios that support long-term product differentiation and market leadership
• Deliver clear, business-aligned IP counsel that informs R&D and corporate development decisions
• Strengthen Applied Medical’s competitive position by ensuring timely, high-quality global patent filings and robust hands-on patent prosecution

Preferred

• Experience supporting intellectual property strategy in the medical device industry
• Background in patent portfolio management for mechanical, electrical, or biomedical innovations
• Exposure to international patent prosecution and global IP strategy
• Experience with intellectual property management software or docketing systems

Benefits

• Competitive compensation range: $145,000 - $175,000 / year (California).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Training and mentorship opportunities.
• On-campus wellness activities.
• Education reimbursement program.
• 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
• Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.