Patent Prosecution Paralegal at Hylton-Rodic Law

Description

Tired of long hours and high stress? Ready to stay in IP work you love—without the burnout?

If you’re an experienced patent prosecution professional who wants meaningful work, genuine balance, and a team that actually respects your time, Hylton-Rodic Law wants to meet you.

We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running: a skilled IP specialist with hands-on experience in U.S. and/or foreign patent prosecution, docketing, filings, and client coordination. This role is perfect for someone who wants the quality of BigLaw work without the BigLaw pressure.

About Us

Hylton-Rodic Law PLLC is a boutique intellectual property firm based in Washington, DC. We focus on patent protection, global filing strategy, and portfolio management across chemical, life sciences, biotech, and pharmaceutical sectors.

We’re a small, growing practice that values excellence, integrity, and balance. Our clients range from emerging startups to global companies, and our work blends scientific precision with strategic legal insight.

At HRL, you’ll join a close-knit, collaborative team where mentorship, wellness, and professional development genuinely matter.

What You’ll Do

• Manage all aspects of U.S. and foreign patent prosecution with minimal supervision
• File PCT applications, national phase entries, and U.S. patent filings
• Prepare and e-file office action responses, IDSs, petitions, issue fees, and other prosecution documents
• Coordinate with clients, inventors, and foreign counsel on filing instructions and formalities
• Communicate directly with overseas associates, clients, and the USPTO
• Track deadlines, maintain accurate docket entries, and collaborate with attorneys and technical specialists
• Prepare reporting letters and reminders for upcoming deadlines
• Review filings for accuracy and completeness (inventor, assignee, priority data, etc.)
• Assist with CRLs, fixed-fee tracking, and billing administration
• Maintain organized electronic files and uphold confidentiality standards
• Proactively identify workflow and process improvements
  
  

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

• 2–4+ years of experience in patent prosecution (U.S. and/or foreign)
• Solid understanding of USPTO rules, PCT processes, IDSs, CRLs, and docketing systems
• Experience communicating with clients, inventors, and foreign associates
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and comfort with IP management software
• Professionalism, discretion, and a collaborative mindset
• Paralegal certificate or college degree preferred
• Experience with trademarks or design patents a plus
  
  

Why Hylton-Rodic Law

• Flexibility and Balance: Manageable hours and an environment that respects your time and life outside of work.
• High-Quality Work: Engage with complex patent portfolios and global filings without BigLaw burnout.
• Professional Growth: Work directly with partners and attorneys who invest in your development.
• Positive Culture: A supportive team that values precision, humor, and professionalism.
• Great Location: Our office is a short walk from the Tenleytown Metro station.
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary: Competitive, typically $70,000 – $95,000+, depending on experience

Status: Non-exempt (overtime eligible)

Comprehensive Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance subsidy
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 6.5-day paid holiday break (Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day)
• 401(k) with matching
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Mental health days
• Birthday leave
• Sunshine Fridays
• Commuter benefits
  
  

How To Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining:

• Your experience with patent prosecution
• Why you’re interested in joining Hylton-Rodic Law
• Anything else you’d like us to know
  
  

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.