Patent Assistant

About Spruson & Ferguson

Spruson & Ferguson is one of the leading intellectual property (IP) service firms operating in the Asia-Pacific region. We have more than 130 years of experience providing a variety of services in the protection, commercialisation, enforcement and management of IP from our offices in Bangkok, Beijing, Brisbane, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Melbourne, Singapore and Sydney. Our multidisciplinary team of more than 480 people includes some of the most highly regarded IP professionals in the Asia-Pacific region. The team services a diverse client base of Fortune Global 500 companies, SMEs, public sector research organisations, foreign associates and local clients.

Spruson & Ferguson is a subsidiary of IPH Limited, the first IP services group to list on the ASX.

About the Role

An exciting opportunity is available for an accurate, motivated and reliable Patent Assistant with 2+ years' secretarial or administrative experience to join our team in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane on a full-time basis.

The successful candidate will provide secretarial and administrative support to attorneys in the Engineering/ICT patent team with a focus on assisting them in managing their practices, actioning client instructions and managing critical deadlines.

Some key responsibilities for this role include:

• maintaining data in the Firm's case management system (Inprotech)
• drafting and preparing correspondence and liaising with clients and associates on behalf of attorneys
• creating, finalising and distributing invoices, including submitting to client specific portals
• producing, amending and preparing official documentation for lodgement
• conducting document research and/or obtaining status reports through IP databases and IP Australia
• providing administrative support to attorneys by managing tasks that enhance efficiency and ensure timely completion of work, including tracking daily and weekly deadlines and overseeing workflow.

Spruson & Ferguson is committed to creating a flexible work environment and we are offering hybrid work options for this position. We welcome individuals who are looking to work in a flexible and collaborative environment.

About You

• At least 2+ years' secretarial or administrative experience in intellectual property or professional services.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Intermediate level) particularly Word and Outlook.
• Experience with task management system (preferable) and a high degree of IT Literacy.
• Excellent attention to detail, time management, and strong written/verbal communication skills.
• A proactive attitude with a keen interest in professional learning, growth and development.
• The ability to problem-solve and collaborate with staff members to ensure individual and shared goals are met to a high standard with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, consistently meeting tight deadlines and adapting to shifting priorities.

Why Us?

Spruson & Ferguson offers a wide range of benefits aimed at supporting our employee's ongoing development, including but not limited to:

• A flexible work environment including working from home;
• A supportive team-based environment with learning and development opportunities;
• Health and well-being programs; and
• Paid parental leave for all genders.

Spruson & Ferguson is committed to promoting and maintaining a workplace culture of shared respect to enable us all to feel valued and be the best we can be.

How to Apply

We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and individuals from diverse backgrounds. We remain committed to providing reasonable and fair adjustments to provide a positive, barrier free, transparent recruitment process and supportive workplace.

If this role sounds like a great fit, apply now with your updated resume and cover letter introducing yourself and why this role is right for you.

Please note, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly.

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.