Principle Director of Patent Operations

A nationally recognized AM Law 200 firm with 500+ attorneys providing comprehensive legal services to innovative companies from startups to global enterprises.

Role

This individual will partner closely with the firm’s patent attorneys, practice group leaders, and C-suite to design, implement, and continuously improve high-volume, high-quality patent prosecution and portfolio management operations. The role combines strategic oversight, process optimization, technology leadership, and people management in a fast-paced, client-service-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end patent prosecution support for U.S. and foreign filings (docketing, formalities, IDS management, annuity payments, assignment recordation, portfolio reporting).
• Lead a team of paralegals, docketing specialists, formalities clerks, and annuity coordinators across multiple offices/time zones.
• Drive adoption and maximization of IP management systems (Anaqua, IPfolio, Lecorpio, FoundationIP, Pattsy Wave, etc.) and related tools (e.g., AppColl, ClaimMaster, USPTO Patent Center integrations).
• Partner with billing and finance teams on patent-related cost recovery, client-specific outside counsel guidelines, and e‑billing compliance.
• Design and deliver training programs for new attorneys, lateral hires, and staff on patent rules, best practices, and firm systems.

Qualifications

• Paralegal certificate, Registered Patent Agent, or JD strongly preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive patent prosecution and operations experience in a large law firm or sophisticated in‑house patent department.
• At least 4 years in a people‑management or team‑lead role overseeing docketing, formalities, and/or annuity functions.
• Proven track record of implementing or migrating major IP management systems.
• Base Salary: $175-250k+, commensurate with experience.
• Additional Compensation: Annual performance‑based bonus.
• Benefits Package: Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match program, vacation and sick time, paid holidays, and professional development/career growth programs.

How to Apply

Please send me your resume to
Please add me on LinkedIn!
I look forward to working with you!
Chris McFarland
Liberty Personnel Services