Junior Patent Attorney (Life Sciences / Chemistry)

If you want to actually practice law—not just survive it—keep reading. You’ve put in the work: advanced science degree, law school, maybe a year or two at a firm. But instead of growing, you’re buried in bureaucracy, rigid hierarchy, or unclear expectations. This role is different. At Hylton-Rodic Law, you won’t sit on the sidelines. You’ll do real work, early , in a firm that values both precision and people . What This Role Actually Does You will take active ownership of patent work —not just assist. Draft and prosecute patent applications (primarily life sciences / chemistry) Respond to office actions and support USPTO interactions Manage your own docket (with guidance early, independence quickly) Communicate with clients on execution-level matters Work directly with legal assistants to move matters forward This is a producing role , not a training sandbox. What You’ll Be Measured On Billable performance + realization rate and budget targets Quality of work product (low revision, zero missed deadlines) Turnaround speed (we work ahead, not reactively) Docket ownership (organization is non-negotiable) Communication (internally and with clients) What Success Looks Like By 30 days: You’re contributing real work and learning our systems By 60 days: You’re handling matters with moderate oversight and hitting billables By 90 days: You’re managing your own docket and operating with growing independence This Role Is NOT For You If: You need constant direction or hand-holding You struggle with organization or deadlines You want to “ease into” practicing law You’re here for lifestyle but not performance You resist feedback or think you already know everything Requirements Required Background Life sciences or chemistry background (MS/PhD required) JD and Patent Bar equired 0–2 years of relevant experience (firm experience preferred) Basic familiarity with patent drafting/prosecution The Kind of Person Who Thrives Here Humble, coachable, and eager to improve Highly organized and detail-oriented Proactive—you don’t wait, you move Flexible in a growing, evolving environment Genuinely enjoys the science and the work About Hylton-Rodic Law We’re a boutique IP firm focused on life sciences —chemicals, pharma, and beyond. We are: Growth-oriented (BD-driven, expanding client base) Non-corporate in culture Serious about both quality of work and quality of life We offer: Reasonable billable expectations (~1700 range) Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) and commuter benefits Mental health days + birthday leave “Sunshine Fridays” (early Fridays when targets are met) A collaborative, respectful team environment Apply If You’re Serious About Growing If you want to do meaningful legal work early , grow quickly, and be part of a firm that’s building something—apply. If you’re looking to coast, avoid accountability, or be told what to do every day—this isn’t the role. Application Requirements: Please submit a resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in this role and in working at a smaller, non-corporate law firm.