Associate

If you’re inspired by brilliant thinking, come and work with our team of IP experts at one of Australasia’s leading IP firms and help protect, build and grow some of the world’s most exciting ideas and innovations.

We have an opportunity for a motivated and enthusiastic Associate to join our team of Patent experts at AJ Park in Auckland. You’ll have upward of 2-5 years PQE with a background in ICT, Mechatronics or Electrical engineering and looking to further your career in the world of Intellectual Property.

You will be at the forefront in helping clients to navigate the best path to protect, commercialise, enforce and defend their IP rights.

You will have exceptional communication skills, with the ability to think commercially and critically when providing advice for clients. You will exhibit a strong commitment to your own professional development and expanding your IP expertise.

The Role

Technical

• Assesses client invention proposals


• Advise on patentability and whether third party rights may be relevant


• Prepares, files and prosecutes patent applications in NZ, Australia and internationally


• Advising on infringement and validity


• Drafting patent specifications with a global focus


• Patent portfolio management


• Assistance with contentious matters


• Advises and guides on IP Strategy

Leadership

• Proactively manages client relationships


• Provides leadership and coaching to junior and assistant team members

Marketing and Business Development

• Acts as an ambassador for the firm, actively driving business development and building the AJ Park profile.


• Authors articles on relevant topics, presents at relevant industry events where required

In order to be successful in this role you will have:

• Registered Trans-Tasman, UK, EP and/or US patent attorney


• 2+ years post-qualification experience


• Bachelor’s degree or post-graduate degree in ICT, electrical or mechatronics engineering


• A high level of skill in writing against prior art


• Exceptional organisational skills including an ability to multi-task, prioritise and meet competing deadlines

What’s in it for you?

Being part of a dynamic and inclusive team, where you will gain excellent experience and structured career development. We offer competitive remuneration along with benefits as follows: 

• Paid parental leave of up to 18 weeks, plus 6 weeks’ partner leave


• One day of paid birthday leave


• Volunteer leave


• Leave purchase scheme (up to 2 weeks)


• Salary sacrifice benefits (annual leave, public transport, and bike)


• Income protection and life insurance


• Structured professional development programmes


• Professional membership fee support


• A collaborative and inclusive culture


• Hybrid working as standard


• Fitness and wellness benefits


• Access to our wellbeing hub


• Fresh fruit delivered daily, plus weekly morning tea

Who are we?

We are not your typical law firm. We dress for our day, have a flat structure and a collegial vibe where bringing your whole self to work is at the heart of who we are.

AJ Park is the IP Firm of choice in New Zealand. We support our clients with intelligent action and are well respected both within the patent profession and the clients we work with.

We offer a rewarding career, community and team spirit and opportunities to develop technically and personally.

Find out more about us here.

Note: Successful candidates will undergo a standard pre-employment screening as part of the hiring process within the IPH Group. This process may include verifying key information such as your identity, qualifications, references, and criminal history. By submitting your application, you acknowledge that you may be required to complete any necessary background checks relevant to the role.