Why Work for USPTO?

Imagination. Creativity. Possibility. Opportunity. No career is fulfilling without them. USPTO is the premier agency of over 8,000 talented and enthusiastic employees serving the economic interests of the U.S. by contributing to a strong global economy, encouraging investment in innovation, and cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit for the 21st century. Our employees take their jobs very seriously, because they know the public is counting on them. As an employee of the only Federal agency responsible for granting patents and registering trademarks in the U.S. Government, you too can have the satisfaction of protecting the intellectual property rights of inventors.

At USPTO, we’re powered by innovation and we’ll empower you to seize them to help make your future as dynamic and rewarding as it can be. Because our people are our greatest assets, we empower them to realize their full potential. That’s why people who are highly motivated, self-managed and relish the challenge of leadership while working within a team often find that USPTO is a perfect fit. In 2006, the agency was ranked among the “Best Places to Launch a Career.”

USPTO is a place rich in diversity and culture. For that reason, we value and seek diverse and talented individuals who can bring their skills and experiences into our environment, and make our agency stronger and richer. At USPTO, we work hard but we also recognize the importance of having fun at our workplace. Throughout the year, employees can take advantage of the annual cultural event Community Day. At this event, you can savor the outdoor celebration which offers fun, food, and entertainment – a winning formula. This annual celebration supports the USPTO's continuing affirmative program to promote equal employment opportunity and the agency's commitment to a workforce drawn from all segments of society.

In addition to an inclusive organizational climate, we offer outstanding salaries and a competitive benefits package, which includes job security, paid vacation, sick leave, a wide range of health insurance options, life insurance, and an excellent retirement package, casual dress policy, transit subsidy, family friendly leave policy to allow leave for necessary family problems, and a maternity/paternity compensatory program is also available. Two weeks of military leave annually for all armed forces reservists. We actively support flexible or alternative work schedules including Telework as well as an Employee Assistance Program to assist employees with family and work issues and many other incredible benefits. Patent examiners are eligible for performance-based cash awards in the amount up to 10% of their yearly salary. We also offer a recruitment bonus for qualified patent examiner candidates.

With career opportunities in a diverse range of areas, come and examine the possibilities and see innovation in action. They may well offer you the opportunity of a lifetime. Learn about what USPTO can do for you in this section and get set to bring your talents to USPTO.