Job Title: Senior Patent Engineer

Position Profile

Under the supervision of the General Counsel and/or an Assistant General Counsel (IP Law), the Senior Patent Engineer provides primary intellectual property services to one or more Ricoh business units and/or corporate functions. The focus of this role is on conducting patent clearance studies and preparing and filing local origin patent dockets.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Lead and perform patent clearance and adversely held patent (AHP) studies. Participate in Invention Disclosure Teams and identify/select high-value inventions for patent protection. Prepare original and communicated patent applications for national, regional, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and service country filings. Prosecute national, PCT, U.S., and service country patent applications and appeals. Assist lead attorneys in patent licensing and infringement actions, including compiling and presenting proof packages to technical and legal stakeholders. Contribute to Patent Offense activities. Supervise and mentor Patent Engineers and IP Law Trainees. Oversee Outside Counsel and contractor search activities.

Qualifications (Education, Experience, and Certifications)

Typically Requires:

A Bachelor's degree in math or science. At least 3 years of engineering experience in a technology relevant to Ricoh. Eligibility to take the U.S. patent examination to become a registered patent agent.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated client relationship and development abilities. In-depth understanding of Ricoh’s internal policies, procedures, and systems. Solid understanding of intellectual property law principles and procedures. Strong problem-solving, analytical, and anticipatory skills.

Working Conditions, Mental and Physical Demands

Standard office environment with adequate lighting, ventilation, and typical temperature/noise levels. Cyclical stress from deadlines and ongoing responsibilities tied to high-impact decisions. Minimal physical effort; work is primarily sedentary but may require light physical activity (walking, standing, lifting items <10 lbs). Moderate dexterity required (e.g., keyboard, calculator, hand tools, eye/hand coordination). Occasional travel may be required.

Note:
This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.