Patent Agent

Job Responsibilities

You will be responsible for IP matters in the field of transportation, with a focus on Patents and on the Americas. The position supports the central IP department of the MANN+HUMMEL group and reports to the Head of Patents. 

− Drafting and prosecution of patent applications is a significant portion of the job  

− Representation of MANN+HUMMEL Group Entities in patent and trademark prosecution at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, including Examiner’s interviews 

− Handling Patents and other IP rights, freedom to operate evaluations, and IP enforcement in the field of transportation  

− Collaborate with all stakeholders and consult in patent law and related subject matters  

− Solve IP cases as part of a team within the international environment of MANN+HUMMEL Group IP 

− Be strategic and forward-thinking when it comes to identifying innovation and developing IP protection strategies and secure freedom to enter new field of businesses  

− Actively encourage the R&D teams to improve MANN+HUMMEL’s IP portfolio  

− Provide IP support for contracts and negotiation thereof in cooperation with the legal department  

− Perform IP trainings  

Educational Requirements

− Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, or another related area of study 

Experience Requirements

− 3+ years’ hands-on experience in patent drafting and prosecution  

− In-house experience in managing patent portfolios 

− Registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office 

Skills Requirements

− Qualified US Patent Agent (attorneys are welcome to apply) 

− Solid experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications 

− Solid experience in mechanics and/or material science 

− View IP with a strategic and “IP as a business asset” mindset by anticipating future business, competitive and legal risks, and seeking creative solutions and opportunities  

− Ability to work independently  

− Ability to work with an international team, across multiple time zones  

− Highly organized, able to navigate complex organization structures, systems, and processes 

− Willingness to travel up to 10% Domestically & International  

− Ability to manage multiple tasks 

Preferred Skills

− Additional qualification is considered as advantage  

− Additional language skills are a plus  

− Previous international experience  

− In-house experience in the automotive, off-road transportation, or adjacent sector 

− Advanced degrees in engineering and/or science