Intellectual Property Operations Manager

Overview

The Intellectual Property (IP) Operations Manager leads the practice-wide IP operations team, driving efficiency and quality across multiple offices. The role collaborates with attorneys, patent agents, paralegals, docketing staff, and client‑facing partners to optimize workflow, tooling, and policy implementation.

Competitive base salary in the range of $100,000‑$150,000, dependent on location and experience.

• Coordinate development and implementation of best‑practice procedures for application, docketing, deadline, billing, client communication, and relationship development.
• Assist with assessment and continuous improvement of IP prosecution processes.
• Identify workflow inconsistencies with partners and stakeholders, proposing solutions to streamline support functions.
• Maintain central repository of procedures, training materials, schedules, and standard reporting letters/checklists.
• Ensure integrity of the IP prosecution database; conduct quality reviews and ongoing audits of files, databases, and dockets.
• Update USPTO account and communicate system changes in a timely manner.
• Serve as primary contact for prosecution policies and procedures.
• Track prosecution‑related developments (USPTO, PCT) and integrate updates into training and policies.
• Manage file intake and transfer processes for departmental records.

• Lead and manage docketing staff.
• Mentor and coach IP support team members; share process knowledge across sites.
• Gather individual and group needs to address morale and challenges.
• Prepare agendas and lead monthly IP staff meetings.
• Oversee workflow distribution, monitor quality, and adjust workloads during leaves, vacations, or overtime requirements.
• Coordinate onboarding materials for new hires and practitioners.
• Participate in new‑hire candidate selection for the IP support team.
• Manage outside vendors supporting IP prosecution work.
• Attend training sessions with attorneys and agents to communicate new policies and gauge needs, implementing procedural changes as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree (required).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in complex patent/IP administrative duties (filing, workflow, docketing).
• Prior IP paralegal/assistant experience (preferred).
• Strong understanding of U.S. patent and trademark rules and MPEP research.
• Proficiency with docketing, document‑assembly systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Expertise in PTO systems (EFS, EPAS, PAIR, TEAS, TESS).
• Leadership skills: supervise staff, prioritize tasks, and communicate effectively.
• Detail orientation and ability to thrive in a deadline‑driven environment.

Use of computer, telephone, printing, copying, faxing, and scanning equipment; occasional travel; exposure to weather conditions and moderate office noise.

Paid time off, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with employer match, life insurance, and additional benefits.

Candidates must have permanent authorization to work in the United States. Ice Miller LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.