Practice Coordinator (Patent Prosecution experience required)

Who are we?

Named for several years as a "great place" to work by The Washington Post and Washington Business Journal, Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. is proud to be one of the most highly regarded intellectual property specialty law firms in the world. We recognize that it is the talent and dynamism of each individual at Sterne Kessler that makes that possible. With that in mind, we have cultivated an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating with just the right touch of fun and exuberance. We offer a competitive compensation package with excellent benefits and are Metro-accessible in a prime downtown location with many nearby restaurants and shops.

What do we need?

We are seeking a Practice Coordinator specializing in intellectual property (IP) law that ensures the efficient operation of legal and administrative processes while delivering unparalleled customer service. A successful Practice Coordinator provides critical support to one or more Assigned Individuals (attorneys and other legal professionals or timekeepers) by coordinating communication and deadline/task management with a focus on the unique demands of IP law. A proactive, well-organized person who can successfully prioritize tasks and support the overall productivity of Assigned Individuals is needed for this role. The Coordinator is expected to partner with their Assigned Individuals and collaborate with other firm members to provide personalized assistance as needed to ensure the success of the Assigned Individual’s practice. Practice Coordinators train and mentor Practice Assistants to achieve high productivity levels according to established firm and client procedures. By understanding the nuances of IP law and demonstrating unwavering attention to detail, Practice Coordinators proactively assume responsibility and ownership for the duties and tasks assigned to them and their assigned group (Assigned Individuals and Practice Assistants) while fostering trust and client satisfaction. This is a hybrid role that requires 3 days per week in the office. 

How will you make an impact?

• Managing and prioritizing calendars, ensuring optimal scheduling and alignment with individual priorities, practice needs, firm procedures, and client requirements.
• Composing, preparing, formatting, revising, and proofreading standard business communications, forms, and documents.
• Coding and entering Assigned Individuals’ time in the firm's time and billing system.
• Arranging domestic and international travel, encompassing flights, accommodations, and vehicle rentals.
• Planning and coordinating onsite and offsite meetings, conferences, speaking engagements, client proposals, and events. Working with other support departments to manage food and beverage services, reserving rooms, and preparing materials.
• Facilitating, arranging, and promptly executing reimbursements, invoices, and check requests.
• Supporting calendar, deadline, and project management for Assigned Individuals by monitoring daily incoming correspondence, ensuring timely responses, and following up with Assigned Individuals regarding outstanding tasks.
• Conducting legal and factual research to support client development and business initiatives.
• Gathering and organizing information to do conflict checks, initiating new client paperwork, and developing engagement letters and other necessary paperwork.
• Producing a large number of work assignments in an accurate and timely manner.
• Performing additional duties and assignments as identified to support the team and organizational goals.

What will you bring to the role?

• 2 years of patent prosecution experience required
• Bachelor's degree or some college study preferred
• High attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and compliance in all communications
• Exercise judgment and proactivity to provide comprehensive support to one or more Assigned Individuals, ensuring maximum efficiency and reducing administrative burdens
• Anticipates client needs and delivers tailored solutions with professionalism and empathy
• Capable of managing multiple projects and assignments while working efficiently under pressure
• Excellent Communication and teamwork skills
• Proactively identifies and resolves potential issues in practice support or client service
• Demonstrates composure, flexibility, and a solution-oriented mindset in high-pressure situations
• Operate autonomously to ensure that complex or high-level production assignments are completed accurately and on schedule
• Proficient in the use of computer equipment, including the firm’s software and database systems (e.g., Microsoft Office and the firm’s document management, docketing, and workflow management software systems), the USPTO’s software, and other law resources and databases used in IP prosecution
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and discretion
• Possesses a polished demeanor and strong interpersonal skills

The good faith base salary range for this position is $65,000 to $``110,000 per year. The actual salary rate offered to candidates within that range will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, years of relevant experience, education, and the candidate’s overall qualifications for the position as assessed by the Firm. 

To Apply

Please include a resume and cover letter in your application materials. 

Sterne Kessler is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Salary : $65,000