Are you a skilled, organized, detail-loving IP professional who wants a place to grow, learn, and do high-quality work without being swallowed by BigLaw chaos?

If you’re an experienced patent prosecution pro who takes ownership, thrives in organized chaos, and loves a good challenge, Hylton-Rodic Law would really love to meet you.

If you’re the type of person who takes pride in accuracy, enjoys fast-moving patent work, and loves a good challenge — but also thrives in a supportive environment where excellence and balance go hand-in-hand — we’d love to meet you.

This role is perfect for someone with a solid foundation in patent prosecution who wants to level up, expand their expertise, and become a trusted operational partner in a boutique practice.

If that sounds like your speed… keep reading.

We’re looking for a confident, detail-obsessed self-starter who can hit the ground running and doesn’t need hand-holding to do great work. If you’re the kind of person who can keep the USPTO from getting spicy and still log off at a decent hour, welcome home.

About Us 

Hylton-Rodic Law PLLC is a boutique intellectual property firm in Washington, DC.

We deliver high-end patent protection, global filing strategy, and portfolio management across chemical, life sciences, biotech, and pharma.

We’re small, mighty, and intentionally growing — which means your work actually matters. You won’t be buried in bureaucracy here. You’ll be trusted, empowered, and expected to bring your A-game. Every. Single. Day.

Mentorship matters. Wellness matters. Professional development matters.
(And yes, we take “evenings off” seriously.)

What You’ll Do 

This is the role for someone who enjoys precision, loves a challenge, and has a sixth sense for keeping a docket on the straight and narrow.  As our IP Legal Assistant, you will support U.S. + foreign patent prosecution with increasing levels of responsibility as you grow.

Patent Prosecution Support

• Prepare and e-file U.S. applications, responses, IDSs, petitions, and other filings
• Assist with PCT applications and national phase entries
• Work with inventors, clients, and foreign associates to gather and prepare filing materials
• Draft reporting letters, reminders, and status updates
• Review filings for accuracy down to the last comma, claim, and priority number
• Prep reporting letters and deadline reminders before anyone has to ask
• 
  

Docketing & Deadline Management

• Maintain accurate docket entries (you don’t need to be a docketing guru — we’ll help you get there)
• Track deadlines like they’re sacred (because they are) and follow through proactively
• Spot discrepancies and raise issues early

Global Coordination

• Communicate professionally with clients, inventors, and foreign associates
• Assist with assignment filings, priority claims, formalities, and other data-driven tasks
• Help keep global filings clean, timely, and accurate

Workflow & Operations

• Keep electronic files organized
• Maintain beautifully organized electronic files
• Support CRLs, fixed-fee tracking, and billing
• Identify process improvements — and feel empowered to implement them.  In other words, spot workflow or process gaps and fix them before they cause even a flicker of chaos

You will aslo: 

• Assist with trademark filings and keep the trademark docket looking sharp

If you’re the person who likes to keep things running smoothly and loves turning chaos into order, you will thrive here.  If you’re the person who sees a loose thread and immediately ties it up, you will shine here.

What We’re Looking For 

• 2–4+ years of hands-on experience in patent prosecution (U.S. and/or foreign)
• You understand USPTO rules, PCT processes, IDSs, CRLs, and docketing systems
• You communicate clearly and confidently with clients and foreign associates
• You’re obsessed with accuracy — the “it’s either correct or it’s not” type
• You’re a self-starter who takes ownership and doesn’t wait for instructions
• You’re tech-comfortable (Microsoft Office + IP software)
• You’re professional, discreet, proactive, and not afraid to speak up
• Paralegal certificate or college degree preferred
• Trademark or design patent experience = gold star

Translation: If you need constant direction, this isn’t your role. If you thrive when the bar is high, keep reading.

Why Hylton-Rodic Law 

• Flexibility and Balance: Manageable hours and an environment that respects your time and life outside of work. 
• High-Quality Work: Complex portfolios + global filings — minus the pressure cooker.
• Professional Growth: Work directly with partners and attorneys who invest in your development. 
• Positive Culture: Precision, humor, and zero unnecessary drama.
• Great Location: Steps from Tenleytown Metro.

Compensation & Benefits 

Base Salary:  $70,000–$105,000+, commensurate with your demonstrated ability to independently manage U.S. and foreign patent prosecution.

Comprehensive Benefits: 

• Health, dental, and vision insurance subsidy 
• Paid Time Off (PTO) 
• 6.5-day paid holiday break (Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day) 
• 401(k) with matching 
• Life insurance and disability coverage 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
• Mental health days 
• Birthday leave 
• Sunshine Fridays 
• Commuter benefits 

How to Apply 

When you apply, send us:

1. Your resume
2. A short cover letter that tells us:
   • Why this role feels like the right fit for you
   • How you keep your docket, inbox, and sanity in order
   • What “taking ownership” looks like in the wild
   • Your best example of clear, professional communication

Keep it honest. Keep it human.
Bonus points if your subject line makes us smile or nod appreciatively.
Skip the corporate jargon—we want to hear your real voice.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
No recruiters. No phone calls.
Just awesome humans only.