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Patent Examiner (Physics and comparable STEM backgrounds) - Remote

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
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The United States Patent and Trademark Office's (USPTO) patent examiners evaluate next-generation technologies, products, tools, and systems that change how billions of people connect, explore, and interact with one another. The patents we issue and the trademarks we register have the potential to change the world! We're looking for STEM candidates who bring unique perspectives and fresh ideas and energy from all areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine.
 

>> EXPLORE becoming a patent examiner

>> MEET our diverse group of employees

>> LEARN MORE about the USPTO's comprehensive work-life balance package and benefits

 

Duties

As a patent examiner, you will:

  • Explore Innovation: Use specialized and cutting-edge technology to search prior art--information known publicly before the filing date of a U.S. patent application--to ensure inventions are unique.
  • Review Applications: Assess patent applications for new inventions, making sure they meet our standards and determining if they are eligible for a patent.
  • Communicate Findings: Write legal office actions and respond to applicants who have filed a patent application.
     

How to apply

  • TO APPLY, apply on USAJOBS by the cut-off date of 11/17/2024
  • IF YOU ARE A VETERAN: We love hiring vets! Veterans interested in applying, please first email a copy of your resume, academic transcripts, and DD-214 to HireVets@uspto.gov. To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/USPTOVeterans
  • IF YOU HAVE A DISABILITY: Individuals with disabilities are a large part of helping further our goal of protecting our nation's intellectual property rights. If you have a disability and are interested in applying, you may be eligible for special consideration under Schedule A. To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/3C4vdZM
     

Qualifications

Degree in physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics OR a combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

 

In either either above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in additional, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.

 

Specialized experience:

  • Interpreting and applying physics and/or scientific principles, theories, concepts and methodologies used in the evaluation of technology; planning and conducting research; applying appropriate references to the claimed invention, etc.
  • Work experience would have involved following established methods and procedures, or detailed instructions; using some judgment in applying basic principles and procedures; and independently completing recurring assignments, but referring deviations, problems, and unfamiliar situations to a designated person for decision or help.
     

Not sure where your education fits within the qualification requirements? Please review the Patent Examiner Disciplines list to see where your education and experience will fit best within the USPTO.

 

If you are a student nearing graduation, within 9 months from the date of your applications, you can still apply! Just submit your application now, and we will verify your degree before your start date.

 

Conditions of Employment

Applications will only be accepted from United States Citizens and Nationals and your resume and question responses must demonstrate the job-related competencies. If selected, you will be required to pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.

 

The duties of the position will depend on the level of the role, and the level a selectee is selected for will depend on a vary of factors, including education and experience.

 

The full list of duties, qualifications, and conditions of employment can be found on the USAJOBS posting.

 

The USPTO strives to embed diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in all aspects of our work. Intellectual property is most effective when people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives participate in exchanges with others and programs to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity for the benefit of all Americans and people around the world. The USPTO incorporates DEIA best practices throughout our exchanges, programs, and community partnerships, and in our workforce and workplace. The agency is committed to addressing barriers based on race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, geographic location, education, income, socioeconomic status, and other diversity dimensions that may hinder inclusion in the organization. The USPTO's commitment to DEIA strengthens the intellectual property ecosystem and is vital to building trust and partnerships in the United States and around the world.

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