Senior Patent Paralegal

Embedded in a worldwide network Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America continuously strives to remain at the forefront of successful automotive research and development. MBRDNA is headquartered in Silicon Valley, California, with key areas of Autonomous Driving, Advanced Interaction Design, Digital User Experience, Machine Learning, Customer Research, and Open Innovation. In Redford, Michigan, the focus is on Powertrain and eDrive technology as well as in Long Beach, where the teams test durability of the latest driver assistant and telematic systems. The Digital Hub in Seattle focusses on developing a cloud architecture and building out the cloud platform for the next generation of connected car services. The Testing and Regulatory Affairs Division in Ann Arbor and the Advanced Vehicle Design in Carlsbad complete the competence center.

The purpose of the senior paralegal/administrative assistant role is to provide all IP & Patent group team members with substantive and administrative support in the consultation of internal customers.

Job Responsibilities

• Maintain robust IP management system for multiple Mercedes-Benz entities including entering new case data and documentation, quality checking incoming documents, ordering services from outside counsel, preparing group reports and continually improving workflow processes with local and international groups
• Act as the local IP management system expert, training local group members on the IP management system including new/updated capabilities and incorporating group member activity into corporate IP workflow processes
• Communicate regularly with outside counsel and USPTO to maintain efficient matter and invoicing management
• Manage Mercedes-Benz-NAFTA design patent portfolio with limited oversight including regular communication with supported design teams, determining filing strategies, and coordinating efforts with international team members
• Assist in patent portfolio research and reporting, prepare file history research and analysis, and conduct case law research with both US and foreign jurisdiction consideration
• Provide general administrative assistance (i.e. arranging travel, preparing expense reports, copying, faxing, etc.)
• Prepare formality documents including unsolicited invention idea responses, assist with contacting inventors and obtaining signatures, notarization and transmission
• Maintain patent incentive program for Mercedes-Benz-NAFTA entities

Minimum Qualifications

• General knowledge of patent filing and prosecution rules/regulations
• Ability to handle highly confidential information professionally and with discretion
• Ability to work well independently and cross-functionally as part of a small group within a globally established team
• Experience training patent personnel in IP management software
• Ability to project leadership within the team as a group delegate at corporate functions showcasing IP group capabilities and services
• Strong interpersonal skills and highly collaborative with personnel from different cultures located internationally; excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work with hard deadlines and act independently to improve processes
• High proficiency with MS Office Suite; usage of subscription based patent search databases a plus

Preferred Qualifications

• Certificate in Paralegal Studies
• Registered Notary Public
• Experience conducting, analyzing and reporting on inventor, assignee, and basic patent information

Why should you apply?

Here at MBRDNA, you create digital ecosystems around cars, you design a language between humans and machines, you make a car even more intelligent – you make the new reality for cars. Our benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k savings plan, tuition and fitness reimbursement programs and much more. We have an open and flexible environment to allow you to push boundaries, join MBRDNA and design your future.

MBRDNA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and strongly supports diversity in the workforce.

MBRDNA only accepts resumes from approved agencies who have a valid Agency Agreement on file. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, MBRDNA employees, or send to any MBRDNA location. MBRDNA is not responsible for any fees or claims related to receipt of unsolicited resumes.

Thank you for your interest in Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America. Please be aware the impact of COVID-19 could increase the amount of time it takes our HR and Hiring Team to process your application. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We are dedicated to the health and safety of our employees and candidates. We appreciate your patience during this time.

Mercedes-Benz Research and Development North America, Inc.

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