At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct patent searches and analyses to protect advanced technologies in defence and aerospace.
- Company: Join Leonardo UK, a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security.
- Benefits: Generous leave, award-winning pension, mental health support, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team shaping the future of technology.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security and innovation while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in science or engineering; experience in patent searching preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
At Leonardo UK, Intellectual Property (IP) plays a critical role in safeguarding our technological and commercial edge whilst also supporting national defence capabilities. We are seeking a Patent Searcher / IP Analyst to join our Chief Technology Office (CTO) function. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the protection of advanced technologies that underpin national security and aerospace innovation.
Responsibilities
- Conduct patent and IP searches focused on defence electronics technologies (e.g., radar systems, signal processing, electronic warfare).
- Perform freedom‑to‑operate (FTO) and prior art analyses to support R&D and procurement decisions.
- Map and monitor competitor IP portfolios, including defence contractors and dual‑use technology providers.
- Collaborate with inventors and engineers to evaluate invention disclosures and draft patent filing strategies in line with search intelligence.
- Maintain secure and classified IP databases in accordance with internal and governmental protocols.
- Prepare briefings and reports for key stakeholders.
- Contribute to the Electronics Division IP strategy by providing actionable insights that support innovation, risk management, and business growth.
Qualifications
- Degree (or higher) in a scientific or engineering discipline; Physics or Electronics preferred.
- Proven experience in patent searching and/or patent analytics, preferably in defence, aerospace, or high‑security sectors.
- Strong knowledge of IP databases (e.g., Espacenet, PatBase, Derwent, USPTO, EPO) and search tools, and defence technology landscapes.
- Strong ability to interpret technical documentation and develop effective search strategies.
- Strong ability to present results to a non‑IP specialist audience.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Curious, detail‑oriented, and able to work independently and collaboratively.
Desirable
- QPIP (Qualified Patent Information Professional) certification.
- Familiarity with aerospace, defence, or high‑integrity systems.
- Security clearance or eligibility for clearance is highly desirable.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, which could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).
Benefits
- Time to Recharge – enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
- Secure your Future – benefit from our award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Your Wellbeing Matters – free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
- Rewarding Performance – all employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning – free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend – receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
- Tailored Perks – spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working – flexible hours with hybrid working options.
For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety. At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know. Be part of something bigger – apply now!
Location and Contract
- Primary Location: GB – Luton – Cap. Green 300
- Additional Locations: GB – Basildon, GB – Bristol – Coldharbour Lane, GB – Edinburgh, GB – Southampton
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Hybrid Working: Hybrid
Patent Analyst in Southampton employer: Leonardo
At Leonardo UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the defence and aerospace sectors. Our employees benefit from generous leave, a robust pension scheme, and access to extensive learning resources, all while contributing to critical national security initiatives. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we provide a supportive environment where every team member can thrive and grow professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Patent Analyst in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the IP and defence sectors on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions to get your name out there. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Leonardo UK and its projects. Understand their technologies and how your skills as a Patent Analyst can contribute. We want to see your passion for innovation and national security shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You’ll need to explain complex patent information to non-IP specialists. We suggest doing mock presentations with friends or family to build confidence and clarity in your communication.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Patent Analyst in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Patent Analyst role. Highlight your experience in patent searching and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially in defence or aerospace. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about IP and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Don't forget to mention any specific technologies or experiences that relate to the role.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be presenting results to non-IP specialists, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. In your application, include examples of how you've successfully conveyed technical information to diverse audiences.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo
✨Know Your IP Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of intellectual property, especially in the context of defence technologies. Familiarise yourself with key terms and concepts related to patent searching and analytics, as well as the specific technologies mentioned in the job description.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with patent searches and analyses. Think of specific examples where you've successfully conducted freedom-to-operate analyses or mapped competitor IP portfolios. Highlight how your analytical skills can contribute to the company's innovation and risk management strategies.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll need to present complex information to non-IP specialists, practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. During the interview, focus on clear and concise communication, ensuring that you can convey your ideas effectively to a diverse audience.
✨Demonstrate Curiosity and Collaboration
Leonardo values curiosity and teamwork, so be ready to share examples of how you've worked collaboratively with inventors and engineers in the past. Discuss how your inquisitive nature drives you to explore new technologies and contribute to team success.
