Who We Are:

Aird & Berlis LLP is a prominent Canadian business law firm located in the heart of Toronto’s and Vancouver’s financial districts. With over 250 lawyers, business advisors and patent agents, we serve clients across Canada and globally.

What We Believe In:

The firm is committed to ensuring that all members of the Aird & Berlis LLP community feel valued, respected and supported. We are a dedicated group of diverse individuals who care about each other, the work we produce and the client service we provide. We go to great lengths to foster a professional, supportive environment for all firm members so you can focus on the important things: client service, your career and your life.

What We Are Looking For:

Aird & Berlis LLP is looking to fill an open vacancy for a Legal Assistant – Patent to support our busy Aird & McBurney IP Practice Group. The successful candidate will have prior experience in patents and a solid understanding of patent filings, prosecution and related procedures. The ideal candidate would bring a high level of engagement and responsibility in managing the practice, taking an ownership-oriented approach, while being an expert communicator and able to thrive in an environment where they can work both independently and in collaboration with colleagues. They should have a proven track record of working in a fast paced environment and managing a high volume practice.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor all patent due dates and follow up accordingly
• File responses to Office Actions
• Knowledge of Canadian, US, and Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) patent filing/prosecution processes and requirements
• Correspond/communicate with foreign associates regarding patent filings/prosecution processes and requirements
• Correspond/communicate with clients, including understanding aspects that require docketing or follow-up
• Ensuring timely completion of tasks, while foreseeing, planning and prioritizing upcoming activities
• Complete weekly and monthly reports for clients, including management of dockets
• Process expense reports
• Coordinate a high volume workload with great accuracy and organization
• Calendar management
• Manage duties related to accounting and specifically accounts/billing
• Handle daily administrative details
• Produce the highest quality of work
• Accountable for all work assigned
• Take initiative
• Confidential

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 years of previous experience as a Patent Legal Assistant
• Successful completion of a post-secondary education, preferably in a Legal Assistant Program
• Ability to use discretion when dealing with confidential information
• Handle time pressure situations and stress of multiple demands

Skills:

• Microsoft 365 Suite of Applications (including Word, Excel and Workshare Compare)
• Knowledge of PATTSY is considered an asset
• Strong verbal and written communication
• Ability to problem solve
• Good judgement and decision making
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Organized
• Resourceful
• Detailed

Compensation:

The salary range for this position is $65,000- $80,000 annually; the base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal and market equity.

Why You Should Apply:

• Opportunities for growth and on the job training and development

• Competitive compensation and benefits package

• We pride ourselves on being a mid-sized firm with a family feel

• Active involvement in our community with opportunities to volunteer

• Mentor program

• Wellness programs

Any offer of employment will be conditional upon a criminal background check.

We will review applications as they are received and all applications will be kept on file. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Aird & Berlis LLP is committed to providing equal access to employment. If you require accommodation, please contact ckelly@airdberlis.com and we will work with you to provide accessibility support.