What are the responsibilities and job description for the Intellectual Property Manager position at Stryker Corporation?
This newly-created Intellectual Property Manager position will be based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, supporting the growth of the Instruments Division at Stryker in our recently opened state-of-the-art building at 1941 Stryker Way! The IP Manager will be responsible for managing the full patent lifecycle including: preliminary patentability assessments, working with counsel and engineers to draft patent applications, developing office action responses, and strategizing best options for protecting Stryker's IP assets. The IP Manager will collaborate with the R&D team through all phases of the new product development process. The IP Manager will further participate in growth initiatives including licensing and M&A activities. This position requires excellent communication skills and the ability to organize and prioritize work. Further responsibilities include:
- Review invention disclosures and lead Invention Evaluation Boards for patenting or trade secret decisions.
- Initiate and manage patentability, right to use, and state of the art patent searches.
- Liaise with inventors and counsel to draft, file, and prosecute patent applications.
- Perform IP assessments including IP clearance for new product development.
- Initiate and maintain market surveillance to drive strategic discussions.
- Manage patent portfolios and strategies with the business unit leadership.
- Create and maintain IP budget with the business unit team.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent.
- 8+ years of experience, including 3+ years of experience in development of research in the medical device industry or other related industry.
- Understanding of the USPTO patent prosecution process; knowledge of foreign patent prosecution processes.
- Experience performing patent searches.
- Demonstrated ability to influence others.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.