Renewals Patent Records Clerk – trainee level 1

This is an entry-level position in our Patent Renewals team, designed for those beginning a career in intellectual property administration. As a Trainee Patent Renewals Clerk, you will support the accurate and timely maintenance of clients’ patent portfolios across multiple jurisdictions. You will receive full training on renewals processes, systems, and the post-grant lifecycle, while working alongside experienced colleagues in a friendly and professional team. This role sits at the first stage of our structured development pathway, with clear opportunities for progression.

Key responsibilities include:

• Processing instructions to pay patent renewal fees.
• Checking, preparing, and sending renewal reminders to clients.
• Processing renewal certificates and updating case records accordingly.
• Generating a range of reporting letters and sending processed work to the Renewals Checking iManage Workspace.
• Handling abandonment and CPD instructions.
• Processing official renewal-related communications from the Patent Office.
• Saving all relevant work to iManage and able to correspond with Name Administration in relation to any client updates.
• Supporting colleagues with renewals administration and ad hoc tasks.

Skills & attributes:

• Communication – Clear, polite communication; ability to listen and follow instructions carefully.
• Organisation – Strong attention to detail and confidence managing time-sensitive deadlines.
• Collaboration – A supportive team player who contributes positively to the team environment.
• Resilience – Reliable, professional, and able to always maintain confidentiality.
• Growth mindset – Willingness to learn, develop skills, and take responsibility for personal progression.
• IT confidence – Competence with Microsoft Office and readiness to learn specialist systems.

Knowledge & understanding (developed through training):

• Understanding of key IP terminology and how it applies to renewals.
• General awareness of post-grant and maintenance patent lifecycles.
• Ability to check and process overdue and ceasing notifications.
• Confidence navigating UKIPO, EPO, and EUIPO websites.
• Ability to perform advanced searches in iManage.
• Completion of the CIPA formalities course (expected as you progress).

This role is the entry point into our administrative support competency framework. With experience and development, you will have the opportunity to progress into more senior roles, taking on greater responsibility for client work, projects, and technical formalities.

What we offer:

• A structured training and development programme.
• A supportive, friendly working environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Hybrid working opportunities after training.
• Access to wellbeing initiatives, professional development, and career pathways.