Trainee Patent Administrator Bristol 2023

HLK are an IP powerhouse comprising over 200 people in 7 locations, providing a full suite of IP services advising across the globe and in all technical and scientific disciplines. We secure intellectual property rights for our clients, who are at the forefront of technological development in the electronics, engineering, chemical and biotechnology sectors.

Why work for HLK

Our clients expect only the best from us and that is what we deliver. The work here is progressive and challenging yet rewarding. We’re aware that our people are at the heart of everything we do, it’s why we invest in each employee’s professional development, run a yearly wellbeing programme, and not only listen to feedback, but act on it.

There is full support and training given for this role, with the aim of progressing the successful candidate through to their CIPA qualification and then on through their career at HLK, where there is scope for development and growth.

What will you be doing?

As a Trainee Patent Administrator, you will report to the Patent Administration Manager in the team, supporting Patent Attorneys with their cases and ensuring deadlines are met.

You will be responsible for:

• Providing administration and case management support to attorneys/technical assistants.
• Managing a caseload through a case management system to ensure official, client and internal deadlines are met.
• Preparing/checking of documentation for filing patent applications at the EPO, UKIPO and through overseas attorneys.
• Preparing draft correspondence to clients, official bodies and overseas patent attorneys, with consideration for legal and client requirements
• Managing registration of change in ownership (e.g. assignments, mergers, licences) of patents and designs.
• Timely billing of cases and monitoring of outstanding costs on the allocated caseload.
• Generating patent portfolio and various status report documentation.
• Using clients’ software for correspondence and docketing.
• Contributing to the team environment by supporting and assisting team members.

The ideal candidate needs

• Previous administration experience.
• A can-do attitude and flexibility to change and adapt to the day-to-day requirements of the office.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• The skills and maturity to take responsibility for safe and timely handling and prioritising of deadlines/correspondence.
• Strong command of the English language (verbal and written).
• Good organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Competent in MS Office.
• GCSE Grade C or Grade 4 and above in Mathematics and English.
• Minimum of 2 A levels or above (a degree or an equivalent would be an advantage)

HLK offers a great work/life balance, a friendly and supportive working environment with the opportunity of hybrid working.