On-site in Palo Alto, CA, Part-time (20+ hours/week)
Compensation: $80-100K salary equivalent ($40-50/hr) based on experience
Company:
ZeroAvia is at the forefront of innovation, developing the first practical zero-emission engine for commercial aviation. Our vision is to bring hydrogen-electric engines to every aircraft, enabling truly zero-emission flight.
Role:
We are seeking a driven and detail-oriented Legal Operations Associate to join our growing startup. In this role, you'll work closely with founders, engineers, inventors, and external law firms, overseeing invention disclosure development, patent drafting, office actions, and legal operations. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, is excited to bring structure and continuous improvement to processes, and doesn't shy away from occasional out-of-hours work.
To excel in this role, you must be someone who genuinely enjoys continuous improvement, has exceptional attention to detail, and possesses a strong service mindset—always looking to help others and anticipate needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Communicate with engineers, inventors, and other parties to gather necessary information and documents
- Organize and maintain electronic files and docket with precision
- Conduct research using the latest tools and technologies
- Administrative tasks including engagement management and shadowing principals’ inboxes
Essential Skills:
- Exceptional attention to detail and organization skills
- Strong written communication skills, including reviewing technical writing and redlines
- Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment
- Basic understanding of USPTO rules and patent prosecution processes
- Proficiency with Microsoft online tools
- Demonstrated interest in technology and startups
- Strong service mindset - genuinely enjoys finding ways to be helpful, anticipating needs, and going above and beyond
Essential Skills & Requirements:
- Meticulous Attention to Detail: You must thrive in managing details that others might overlook, with an unwavering focus on accuracy.
- Exceptional Written Communication: Strong skills in reviewing, editing, and drafting documents, including technical content.
- Independent Worker: Able to manage your own workload, make sound judgments, and seek out clarity when needed.
- Patent Knowledge: Basic familiarity with patent prosecution and USPTO processes.
- Technical Proficiency: Comfortable using Microsoft online tools and organizing digital information effectively.
- Interest in Technology & Startups
- Service Mindset: A proactive attitude with a genuine passion for helping others, anticipating needs, and going beyond expectations.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree is preferred
- Previous experience in patent prosecution
If you are excited by the prospect of working in a demanding environment where your organizational skills and passion can help leave behind inventions that make the world a better place, we'd love to hear from you.