Become a Leader in Intellectual Property: Director, National Patent Engagement
Are you a visionary legal professional with a passion for innovation? The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is currently searching for a high-level executive to join our team as the Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices. This is a pivotal role that shapes how the public understands and interacts with the American patent system.
Job Responsibilities
As the Director, you will serve as the principal spokesperson for the agency on patent matters. You will bridge the gap between complex patent policy and the general public, including academic leaders, startup communities, and industry stakeholders.
Key duties include:
- Strategic Leadership: Overseeing regional office operations to ensure nationwide alignment with USPTO goals.
- Public Engagement: Representing the agency at media engagements, hearings, and high-visibility forums.
- Policy Communication: Translating intricate patent terminology and examination procedures into clear, actionable information for diverse audiences.
- Stakeholder Relations: Building productive networks across local, state, and federal levels.
Requirements
To be considered for this Senior Executive Service (SES) position, candidates must meet rigorous standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school |
| Licensure | Active membership in a U.S. State or Territorial Bar |
| Experience | Expertise in patent prosecution or relevant IP legal practice |
| Application | 2-page resume highlighting ECQs and PTQs |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $198,491 to $220,000 per year, reflecting the executive nature of the role. New federal employees may be eligible for a $25,000 recruitment bonus subject to a service agreement.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Stick strictly to the two-page limit and use an 11-point font minimum.
- The Accomplishment Record: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for each of your five competencies.
- Verifiers: Ensure every example in your Accomplishment Record has a reachable contact who can verify your claims.
This role offers a unique opportunity to influence the direction of American intellectual property policy at a national level. If you are an experienced leader ready to advocate for the value of innovation, we encourage you to apply by September 21, 2026.
Why This Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices Job Matters
Shape the future of American innovation as a Senior Executive at the USPTO, leading national outreach and regional operations at the forefront of intellectual property policy.
Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices Job Overview
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is seeking a dynamic, strategic leader for the position of Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices. Reporting to the Chief Public Engagement Officer, this executive role serves as the agency’s primary spokesperson for patent-related outreach. You will lead high-level external engagements, manage regional office strategy, and translate complex patent policies for diverse audiences, including academic institutions, startups, and innovation stakeholders.
Requirements for Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- Current active membership in a U.S. state, territory, or District of Columbia bar.
- Proven experience in patent examination, patent prosecution, or high-level intellectual property policy work.
- Must be able to document Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Professional Technical Qualifications (PTQs) within a two-page resume.
- Capacity to pass a high-risk security background investigation.
- Ability to work on-site at the Alexandria, Virginia campus.
Preferred Qualifications for Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices
- Prior experience serving as a public spokesperson or executive presenter before national-level audiences.
- Demonstrated success in leading and managing large-scale regional office operations.
- Strong track record of developing strategic partnerships with trade associations, academic institutions, and interagency stakeholders.
- Expertise in aligning public engagement goals with complex technical and legal patent frameworks.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Competitive salary range up to $220,000 per year.
- ✓Potential $25,000 recruitment bonus for eligible new federal employees.
- ✓Opportunities for situational telework in accordance with agency policy.
- ✓Support for professional development within the Senior Executive Service (SES) framework.
💡 How to Apply Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Director, National Patent Engagement & Regional Offices Job
- Prepare a two-page resume (11pt font minimum) addressing specific ECQs and PTQs.
- Draft a separate two-page Accomplishment Record using the required STAR format.
- Gather proof of bar membership and academic transcripts.
- Submit your application package via the USAJOBS portal before the September 21, 2026 deadline.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS applicant dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Do not use the standard USAJOBS resume builder; ensure your custom resume is strictly limited to two pages.
- When drafting your Accomplishment Record, focus on one clear example per competency rather than a summary of your career.
- Ensure your narrative clearly defines the 'Situation, Action, and Result' for each of the five required competencies.
- Double-check that all contact information for verifiers is current and accurate.
- Proofread thoroughly; illegible or improperly formatted resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, the position is based in Alexandria, VA, but allows for limited situational telework in accordance with current agency policy.
Do I need to submit a separate narrative for the Executive Core Qualifications?
No. You must demonstrate your competency in the ECQs and PTQs directly within your two-page resume and the specific Accomplishment Record.
Job from Patent And Trademark Office
The USPTO is the federal agency responsible for granting intellectual property rights for patents and trademarks. For over 200 years, we have served as the engine of American innovation, supporting the inventors, entrepreneurs, and researchers who drive our economy forward. Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, we are a diverse, fast-paced organization committed to high-quality service and excellence.