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Scripps Research · 2 months ago

MANAGER, PATENT PARALEGAL / IP SYSTEMS & OPERATIONS

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Hybrid

Mid Level

$90K/yr - $110K/yr

3+ years exp

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute renowned for its impactful innovation in various fields. The Manager, Patent Paralegal / IP Systems & Operations will provide comprehensive support for the Office of Patent Counsel, focusing on patent prosecution, docket management, and modernizing operations to enhance efficiency and compliance.

BiopharmaBiotechnologyMedical

Responsibilities

Prepare and file formal patent documents with the USPTO and PCT Receiving Office

Monitor and route communications from the USPTO, outside counsel, and foreign associates

Maintain complete and organized patent files and coordinate new matter setup with OTD

Conduct compliance reviews, including Government Support Clause (GSC) and Verify File Completeness (VFC) audits

Track issued patents, record assignments, and maintain accurate prosecution histories

Support Patent Strategy Committee (PSC) meetings: prepare dockets, track decisions, update actions

Ensure all prosecution deadlines are accurately entered into the docket

Develop or improve AppColl workflows, automated rules, reminders, and reporting dashboards

Implement efficiencies in docketing, reporting, and internal communication

Identify and lead opportunities for system automation and modernization

Support automation of deadline notifications through AppColl

Manage reporting obligations under grants and contracts (invention disclosures, confirmatory licenses, extensions, utilization reports)

Update invention progress in iEdison and maintain compliance with Federal regulations

Provide patent estate and status reports as requested by attorneys, OTD, or General Counsel

Design and document internal workflows, SOPs, checklists, and audit controls

Standardize procedures across OPC, including intake, filing, docketing, communication, and reporting

Identify gaps, propose solutions, and lead improvements to strengthen operational efficiency

Support hiring, onboarding and training of future patent operations staff

Maintain and reconcile the USPTO Deposit Account, ensuring sufficient funds for filings

Work with CPA Global (or equivalent) to manage patent annuity payments, invoices, and reporting

Provide receipts and billing information to OPC Billing for chargebacks to licensees

Oversee OPC personnel records, subscriptions, and office equipment

Order supplies, process invoices and reimbursements, and coordinate purchase orders

Manage file archiving and storage logistics

Qualification

Patent prosecutionDocket managementIP operations experienceMicrosoft Office SuiteAppColl optimizationAttention to detailOrganizational skillsEffective communication

Required

Bachelor's degree in related field preferred

3-5 years' experience as Paralegal or equitable legal experience including IP operations experience (law firm, in-house, or tech transfer)

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Acrobat Pro, Outlook, and Dropbox required

Prior experience in patent prosecution, paralegal support, docketing and knowledge of U.S. and PCT patent filing processes

Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Ability to manage deadlines and communicate effectively with stakeholders

Preferred

Familiarity with iEdison reporting, government support clause requirements, and experience optimizing or automating AppColl, FoundationIP, Anaqua, IPfolio or similar systems is a plus

Benefits

Employer Contributed Retirement Plan – Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)

Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more

Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)

Competitive vacation and sick leave policies

Free, on-site parking