Principal IP Patent Specialist/Counsel

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

The Principal IP Patent Specialist/Counsel will be responsible for providing critical IP law support to the ContiTech Group in the Americas region. This pivotal role encompasses the following essential responsibilities:

• Independently draft and file patent applications with the USPTO, including the preparation of comprehensive responses to office actions and other requisite submissions.
• Oversee patent prosecution in international jurisdictions, collaborating with internal and external national patent attorneys worldwide to ensure global IP protection.
• Provide expert counsel to the ContiTech Group in the Americas region on all aspects of industrial property protection, with particular emphasis on navigating third-party property rights through rigorous "Freedom To Operate" analyses.
• Contribute vital IP expertise to strategic development projects, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and compliance with intellectual property laws.
• The successful candidate will be expected to contribute significantly to the organization's intellectual property strategy and maintain the highest standards of professional conduct in all aspects of their work.

We’re looking for a motivated team member who is eager to grow, learn, and make an impact. This role is a great opportunity for someone ready to take the next step in their career and apply their existing skills in new ways. We value curiosity, adaptability, and a strong desire to continue developing professionally. If you’re passionate about learning and contributing to a collaborative environment, we’d love to hear from you.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE

• Bachelors degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, with a strong focus on polymer chemistry
• Minimum 7 years of relevant experience.
• Prior experience in related areas is beneficial but not required, we welcome candidates ready to grow into this role.
• Demonstrated capabilities relevant to the role, with the ability to apply prior experience in new or broader contexts.
• Strong learning agility and openness to developing new skills.
• Proven ability to collaborate, take initiative, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Extensive professional experience in intellectual property law, particularly in the field of chemistry
• Active license to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and spoken English
• Proven track record of effective teamwork and exceptional sense of responsibility
• Demonstrated ability to make critical decisions and assert professional opinions in high-stakes environments
• In-depth understanding of polymer chemistry and its applications in industrial contexts
• Exceptional analytical skills for conducting thorough patent searches and "Freedom to Operate" analyses
• Proficiency in drafting complex patent applications and responding to office actions
• Strong project management skills to oversee international patent prosecutions.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas now or in the future for this job posting.

The expected annual salary range for this role is $166,400.00 - $208,000.00 a year. This position is also eligible for a variable incentive program. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

THE PERKS

• Immediate Benefits
• Robust Total Rewards Package
• Paid Time Off
• Volunteer Time Off  
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Discounts, including tire discounts.
• Competitive Bonus Programs
• Employee 401k Match
• Diverse & Inclusive Work Environment with 20+ Employee Resource groups.
• Hybrid Work
• Employee Assistance Program
• Future Growth Opportunities, including personal and professional.
• And many more benefits that come with working for a global industry leader!

EEO-Statement:

EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Continental offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to unlawful consideration to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. In addition, as a federal contractor, Continental complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans, where they apply. To be considered, you must apply for a specific position for which Continental has a current posted job opening. Qualifying applications will be considered only for the specific opening(s) to which you apply. If you would like to be considered for additional or future job openings, we encourage you to reapply for other opportunities as they become available. Further, Continental provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance in the application process, please reply to [email protected] or contact US Recruiting at 800-821-2727. This telephone line and email address are reserved solely for job seekers with disabilities requesting accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Please do not call about the status of your job application, if you do not require accessibility assistance or an accommodation. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or non-disability related technical issues, will not receive a call back.

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