Patent Paralegal (In-House)

About the Opportunity

We are anticipating future client needs in the IP space and are seeking a skilled Patent Paralegals to join our roster of talent. Such roles provide support to our in-house client teams as related to managing the full lifecycle of patent filings, prosecution, and maintenance across multiple jurisdictions. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional with a strong background in intellectual property (IP) and a passion for innovation.

Candidate Profile

• 5+ years’ experience in a patent paralegal or IP formalities role, ideally within a law firm or in-house legal department.
• Strong working knowledge of UKIPO, EPO, and WIPO procedures and systems.
• Proficiency with IP management systems (e.g., Anaqua, Inprotech, or similar).
• Familiarity with docketing practices and managing large patent portfolios.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Experience in the pharmaceutical or healthcare sector is advantageous.
• A degree or equivalent experience is required; a Paralegal and/or CIPA Patent Administrator Certificate is highly desirable.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, remote-first environment with cross-functional teams.
• Epiq Counsel partners with industry-leading clients in support of their sophisticated interim talent needs. Must be interested in practicing in an alternative, fixed-term legal services model.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage patent portfolios, including UKIPO, EPO, and international (PCT) filings.
• Prepare and file patent applications, responses to office actions, and other formal documents.
• Monitor and maintain patent dockets, ensuring all deadlines are met and actions are taken promptly.
• Liaise with external counsel, patent attorneys, inventors, and internal stakeholders to coordinate filings and prosecution strategies.
• Conduct research on patent law developments and provide administrative support for IP-related projects.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with UK and international IP regulations.
• Support the development and implementation of best practices within the IP function.

Benefits

• We offer market beating benefits in the alternative legal services space, including: 25 days holiday + bank holidays, pension and comprehensive healthcare.
• Competitive compensation based on experience and engagement complexity.
• Hybrid/Remote schedule.
• Engagement support and coaching.

Application Process

If your experience aligns with the role, a member of the Epiq Counsel team will be in touch. While we aim to respond to all applicants, the volume of applications may limit our ability to do so in every case.

About Epiq Counsel

Epiq Counsel is a leading provider of flexible legal talent solutions, offering experienced legal professionals the opportunity to work with top-tier clients on high-impact engagements . We provide our professionals with the flexibility to work remotely or in hybrid settings, while engaging in meaningful legal work for global organisations.