Trainee Patent Attorney – Physics/Engineering – Autumn 2026 in Manchester

Trainee Patent Attorney – Physics/Engineering – Autumn 2026 in Manchester

Manchester Trainee 25000 - 32000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Wilson Gunn

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join us to protect innovative ideas and inventions in a dynamic legal environment.
  • Company: Wilson Gunn, a leading firm in intellectual property law.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, 25 days holiday, and full training support.
  • Other info: Exciting career path with mentoring and structured training opportunities.
  • Why this job: Launch your career as a Patent Attorney and make a real impact in technology.
  • Qualifications: 2:1 honours degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics or related field.

The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.

We are looking for a graduate or post‑graduate trainee to join our Manchester office to work towards the qualifications of Chartered Patent Attorney and European Patent Attorney starting in Autumn 2026. In addition to patents, you will also have the opportunity to become involved in other aspects of intellectual property, such as trade marks, designs and copyright.

Patent attorneys require a scientific/engineering background to be able to understand and protect ideas and inventions across a wide range of industries, and so candidates for this role must have a scientific academic background. We are interested in candidates with at least a 2:1 honours degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics or a related discipline, who are based in or keen to relocate to Manchester.

The candidate we are looking for will also:

  • Have excellent communication skills, particularly in writing
  • Be highly organised and have very good attention to detail
  • Have strong analytical skills and the confidence to defend the reasoning behind their opinion
  • Be motivated and ready to put in the effort required to obtain the challenging professional qualifications – which usually takes around 5 years
  • Be based in or around Manchester

In return, we are offering:

  • A fascinating and rewarding career
  • A competitive salary (plus bonus and pension)
  • 25 days holiday plus statutory holidays. Additional holidays are accrued with service
  • Full training, involving day to day mentoring and structured in‑house training (delivered both in person and via video conferencing) supplemented by external courses and tutorials
  • Examination support and study leave

To apply for this position, please send your CV together with a covering letter by 24 July 2026. Please mention IP Careers when applying to Wilson Gunn.

Areas of Specialism: Electrical Engineering, Engineering - Other, Mechanical Engineering, Physics

Trainee Patent Attorney – Physics/Engineering – Autumn 2026 in Manchester employer: Wilson Gunn

Wilson Gunn is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring Trainee Patent Attorneys in the vibrant city of Manchester. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide comprehensive training and mentoring, competitive salaries, and a supportive work culture that values innovation and collaboration. Our focus on intellectual property allows you to engage with diverse industries while enjoying a rewarding career path that encourages personal and professional growth.

Wilson Gunn

Contact Details:

Wilson Gunn Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Patent Attorney – Physics/Engineering – Autumn 2026 in Manchester

Excellent Communication Skills
Writing Skills
Organisational Skills
Attention to Detail
Analytical Skills
Confidence in Reasoning
Motivation