How to Get an Intellectual Property Analyst Job in 2022

Safeguarding Intellectual Property (IP) has become very significant in 2022, with more companies dedicating resources toward research and development. When developing a new concept, device, or product, getting patents and trademarks to secure their IP from being copied by competitors is critical. If you’ve chosen to work as an intellectual property analyst in 2022, you can expect to find employment in any sector where new ideas are conceptualized that may need protection from unauthorized duplication. Read ahead for some in-depth information on how to get started with this career path. 

Basic Qualifications for a Certified Intellectual Property Analyst (CIPA)

Candidates wishing to qualify as certified intellectual property analysts need to have a Bachelor’s degree in the field where they have chosen to work. Most students aspiring to work as IP analysts start off with undergraduate STEM subjects, such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, engineering, design, and technology. Thus, if you intend to work in the sphere of technology, you’ll need a degree in engineering. Similarly, working in the pharmaceuticals sector requires a degree in science or medicine. Again, depending on the industry where you’ll apply for jobs, you’ll need some knowledge of patent laws and regulations.

Courses to Work as an Intellectual Property Analyst

Several courses are available online that you can sign up for and gain the necessary certification. Courses may have varying durations, but in the broad sense, they include modules covering topics like calculating the damages resulting from patent infringement, evaluating emerging technologies and innovations, understanding advanced patent evaluation techniques, and negotiating licensing deals for clients to ensure maximum returns. 

Once you pass the exam and acquire accreditation, you’ll register with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). You are now ready to apply for a job as a junior associate with a company and work your way up to higher positions. Check out online websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Higher Hire, or PayScale to look for openings for applying.

Expected Salary and Job Prospects

According to a recent salary survey, certified intellectual property analysts can expect to make around $70,000 in 2022. As for the job outlook, PayScale estimates a 22% uptrend from 2020 to 2030. Aside from your qualifications, you’ll need soft skills like verbal and written communication and good customer service. These skills are essential for interacting with clients and presenting your findings coherently. You’ll also need investigation skills since the job needs you to research existing patents to identify comparable products. 

Based on your search results, clients can decide whether to modify their products or abandon projects for more viable ones. Keen analytical skills help you draw practical conclusions from the data you collect, while decision-making is essential for providing advice on the best course of action.

Additional Skills and Training 

Since the Intellectual Property sphere is dynamic and constantly evolving, you’ll need to upgrade your skills constantly. For instance, if you’re working with an Orlando patent attorneys firm, you’ll remain updated with the latest government regulations related to patents and intellectual properties. 

Following industry trends and reading journals and articles will help. 

In addition to proficiency with using patent search engines and relevant software, you might need experience working with law firms to counsel clients on patent laws. IP analysts often work with a team to develop a strategic patent portfolio for client companies. As your skills and position grow, you could be asked to mentor and train new hires in the organization. 

Acquire the necessary qualifications, and you can get a great position as an IP analyst. 

Adam Hansen
 

Adam is a part time journalist, entrepreneur, investor and father.