In-house Patent Attorney [589]

About the role

Are you passionate about cutting-edge technology and working with world-class researchers? Do you enjoy intellectually challenging patent work in a collaborative environment? D-Wave is seeking an In-house Patent Attorney / Patent Specialist to join our Intellectual Property (IP) team and support the growth of our quantum computing research and development. In this role you will work closely with inventors to identify valuable innovations, draft and prosecute patents to develop the IP portfolio, bring a European perspective to prosecution and strategy, and contribute to the continued evolution of D-Wave’s IP practices. You will support patent strategy, manage priorities, solve complex problems, and build expertise in the quantum technology landscape.

The successful candidate will be hired as either a Senior or Staff Patent Specialist, based on expertise and demonstrated technical impact.

What you'll do

• Collaborate to identify, evaluate, and protect valuable innovations.
• Draft and prosecute patent applications across diverse technical areas.
• Build strong partnerships across technical teams.
• Coordinate effectively with external patent counsel.
• Support the growth, management, and continuous improvement of D-Wave’s patent portfolio.
• Provide IP guidance and education to internal stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities to improve IP processes.
• Anticipate challenges, recommend solutions, and escalate when appropriate.

About You

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Physics, Mathematics, Computing Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Experience drafting and prosecuting patents before a Patent Office.
• Registration as a European Patent Attorney (or equivalent certification) is an asset.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and sound judgment.
• Clear and effective communication skills with the ability to adapt to a variety of audiences.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and a solutions-oriented mindset.

Level Expectations

Senior Patent Specialist

You are an independent patent professional who skillfully manages general patent matters and applies sound judgment to patent drafting and prosecution. You are a strong contributor to a team, are comfortable giving and receiving feedback, and are motivated to continue building expertise in patent law and developing knowledge in quantum technology and the competitive landscape. You effectively prioritize your workload, manage timelines, and identify and resolve challenges while contributing ideas, improvements, and guidance to others. Typically gained through 4+ years of relevant experience.

Lead Patent Specialist

You are an experienced patent professional who has a proven history of expertly managing complex patent matters and applying strong technical and IP expertise to patent drafting and prosecution. You are a thought leader within the team, contributing to improving IP practices and continuing to build expertise as a trusted partner, providing feedback to others and seeking growth opportunities within and outside the team. You efficiently prioritize a varied workload, anticipate and develop solutions to challenging problems, and collaborate effectively across technical and business teams to support innovation and business objectives. Typically gained through 6+ years of relevant experience.

A D-Waver's DNA

We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals. We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other. We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other. As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful: We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got — not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team. During the interview process, your Recruiter will review our total rewards (base, equity, bonus, perks, benefit, culture). The final offer is determined by your proficiencies within this level.

Inclusion: We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.

The Fine Print: No 3rd party candidates will be accepted. It is D-Wave policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.