Patent Agent/Advisor (Software/AI)

Company: Direct Counsel
Location: Reston
Posted on: February 17, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Direct Counsel is seeking a Patent Agent or Patent Advisor to join a leading national firm’s busy patent counseling, prosecution, and litigation practice. This role is available in Boston, Denver, New York, Reston, or Washington, D.C. About the Role The firm is seeking a highly motivated candidate with substantive industry experience and a degree in software, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field . The ideal candidate will support attorneys on a wide range of patent matters involving cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning . Key responsibilities include: Conducting prior art searches for patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses Reviewing and analyzing patents, scientific literature, and technical documents Drafting patent applications and responses to USPTO office actions Advising attorneys on technology issues in preparation for depositions Collaborating with patent attorneys on prosecution, counseling, and litigation support Qualifications Degree in computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or related field Strong technical aptitude and excellent written and verbal communication skills Broad scientific understanding in computer science or electrical engineering Expertise in AI and machine learning strongly preferred Must be eligible to sit for the USPTO registration exam Ability to take initiative, learn quickly, and work effectively in a collaborative environment Law school tuition assistance is available for patent agent candidates Compensation & Benefits Expected annual salary: $125,000–$228,000 (Final offer will depend on location, experience, and skillset.) Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, HSA/FSA options, commuter benefits, life and disability insurance, long-term care coverage, backup care, and parental support resources Firm-paid benefits including generous parental leave, fertility benefits, four weeks of vacation per year, two weeks of sick leave, and 10 paid holidays annually

Keywords: Direct Counsel, Olney , Patent Agent/Advisor (Software/AI), Engineering , Reston, Maryland