At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Advanced Engineering group as a Trainee Patent Attorney and work on exciting technology cases.
- Company: Withers & Rogers is one of Europe's largest intellectual property law firms, specializing in engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, Christmas bonus, healthcare plan, and generous sabbatical policy.
- Why this job: Gain real responsibility early on and make a significant impact in your first year.
- Qualifications: Strong degree in mechanical, chemical, or related engineering; passion for technology is essential.
- Other info: Applications close on April 14, 2025; assessment day on May 28, 2025.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
Trainee Patent Attorney – Advanced Engineering
Sheffield, UK
Withers & Rogers LLP are looking for a bright and curious mind to join the firm\’s Advanced Engineering group in September 2025 as a Trainee Patent Attorney.
This is an opportunity to train and qualify as a Patent Attorney in both the UK and Europe, working with some of the worlds most exciting businesses to help protect their cutting-edge technology.
A career in the patent profession offers a unique platform to put your technical expertise into practice in a commercial environment. Long-term career prospects are fantastic and Withers & Rogers pride themselves on their employees\’ work-life balance: realistic business targets mean that you will have time for a life outside of the office.
Apply now to join Withers & Rogers and discover why a career as a Patent Attorney is a fantastic use of your academic training.
Becoming a Patent Attorney at Withers & Rogers
An excellent salary is on offer, as well as a discretionary Christmas bonus and our full package of employee benefits which includes our healthcare cash plan, holiday buy/sell scheme, a generous sabbatical policy and more.
Qualification as a Chartered UK & European Patent Attorney involves passing several sets of examinations and we provide a comprehensive package of support for our trainees through the process. We will pay for you to attend courses, lectures and tutorials which are organised by the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA). In addition, we have our own in-house tutorial system to prepare trainees for both the UK and European qualifying exams. Our patent professionals offer advice and help throughout so you won\’t be on your own.
The main focus of training, however, is exposure to a great variety of work on actual live cases under the supervision of a qualified Attorney. We give our trainees real responsibility early on, and you should expect to be making a significant contribution to client work within your first year.
Who we\’re looking for
Applicants should have a strong degree (2:1 or above at undergraduate level as a minimum) in a mechanical, chemical or related engineering discipline.
You will be able to demonstrate a passion for technology that goes beyond the academic, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to grasp new technical concepts. Confidence when communicating effectively with clients and staff of all levels is also prerequisite.
Though not essential, relevant work experience may put candidates at an advantage and we would welcome applications from experienced individuals who wish to make a career change into the patent profession.
Why choose Withers & Rogers?
Withers & Rogers is one of Europes largest dedicated intellectual property law firms. Our Advanced Engineering group is enthusiastic about great engineering. Our team works across a hugely diverse span of technologies, from medical devices, motorsport, oil and gas exploration, vehicle transmission to off-highway vehicles and sporting goods and more.
We believe that our patent and trade mark attorneys, support, and operations staff have a breadth of expertise and a depth of specialist sector knowledge that is second to none. Our purpose is building trusting relationships and our vision is to be an independent, responsible, sustainably profitable, and globally focused firm, known for building trusting relationships.
We focus on building strong partnerships with clients – getting to know their business, seeking to understand how best to protect the fruits of their developments and how to ensure that IP protection genuinely adds value to their organisation.
At Withers & Rogers, we believe in nurturing a diverse working environment where everybody feels included and valued. We are committed to attracting, developing and retaining people from all walks of life and backgrounds. We promise to create a culture of inclusion where all individuals feel respected, are treated fairly, can enjoy a good work-life balance, and have the opportunity to excel in their chosen career.
Next Steps
The closing date for applications is Monday 14 April 2025. The assessment day is booked to take place on 28 May 2025 in our London office. Successful applicants will start in September 2025, however earlier start dates will be considered.
Our application form is online and your progress will be saved once you have started the application, allowing you to make edits prior to submitting if you wish to.
Candidates who meet shortlisting requirements will be asked to undertake an online aptitude assessment which we will use to aid our sifting process.
For any questions relating to the vacancy or the application process, please contact the HR team.
Trainee Patent Attorney - Advanced Engineering in Sheffield employer: Withers & Rogers
Contact Detail:
Withers & Rogers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Patent Attorney - Advanced Engineering in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest trends and technologies in mechanical and chemical engineering. This will not only enhance your understanding but also demonstrate your passion for technology during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the patent field, especially those who work at Withers & Rogers or similar firms. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections and gain insights into the role of a Patent Attorney.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the online aptitude assessment by practicing relevant tests. This will help you feel more confident and perform better, as this assessment is a key part of the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase any relevant work experience, even if it's not directly related to patent law. Highlight transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork that are valuable in the role of a Patent Attorney.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Patent Attorney - Advanced Engineering in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Trainee Patent Attorney position. Understand the qualifications and skills required, and think about how your background aligns with these expectations.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experiences, particularly in mechanical or chemical engineering. Emphasize any projects or roles that demonstrate your passion for technology and your ability to communicate effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the patent profession and explains why you want to work at Withers & Rogers. Mention specific aspects of the firm that appeal to you, such as their commitment to work-life balance and diverse working environment.
Prepare for the Online Assessment: If selected, you'll need to complete an online aptitude assessment. Practice similar assessments beforehand to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you might encounter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Withers & Rogers
✨Show Your Passion for Technology
Make sure to express your genuine interest in technology during the interview. Share examples of projects or experiences that highlight your enthusiasm and understanding of advanced engineering concepts.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since effective communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be prepared to discuss complex technical ideas in a way that is understandable to non-experts, showcasing your ability to connect with clients and colleagues alike.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have any relevant work experience, even if it's not directly in patent law, be sure to mention it. Discuss how your background in mechanical or chemical engineering has prepared you for the challenges of being a Patent Attorney.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face questions that assess your technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Brush up on key concepts in your field and think about how they relate to intellectual property and patent law to demonstrate your readiness for the role.