Patent Engineer

Are you ready for what’s next?  

Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond.  Brunswick believes “Next Never Rests™,” and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation. 

Job Summary: 

We are seeking a Patent Engineer to join our dynamic, client focused legal team serving as a strategic partner to the Brunswick product development and engineering teams.  This is a hybrid opportunity, and weekly presence in one of our Mettawa, IL or Fond du Lac, WI locations is required.

This position will provide intellectual property legal support for a diverse and broad range of marine-related technologies such as internal combustion and electric propulsion systems, ACES programs (autonomy, connectivity, electrification, and shared access), control systems, switching systems, parts & accessories, and boat designs.

The Patent Engineer will work closely with engineers to support the product development process by performing patent searches, freedom-to-operate analyses, and providing design-around proposals as necessary.  The role will assist with patent portfolio management (participating in patent review committees and supporting invention disclosure reviews, patent maintenance decisions, competitive reviews, etc.), due diligence reviews for acquisitions, trademark reviews, and occasional offensive and defensive IP litigation support. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Support product development teams by performing patent searches, freedom-to-operate analyses, and providing design-around proposals

• Support the process of procuring patent rights for Brunswick, including managing and evaluating invention disclosures, supporting the patent review committee; proactively identifying potentially patentable inventions created during product development lifecycle

• Serve as trusted advisor to engineering and business teams on intellectual property matters; educate engineering and business teams on internal IP processes and new developments related to IP law

• Assist with due diligence review of IP portfolios of acquisition targets

• Manage surveillance of competitor intellectual property portfolios and activity

• Work with paralegal staff to develop appropriate docketing and documenting decisions regarding the Brunswick IP portfolio

• Anticipate and manage multiple projects, expectations and concerns of the business related to intellectual property by working closely with business personnel

• Anticipate issues and obstacles that impact Brunswick’s success; develop innovative solutions in alignment with business strategy

Qualifications and Skill Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science in engineering or other hard science, preferably electrical engineering or mechanical engineering

• 3-6 years’ experience as a Patent Engineer

• Registered Patent Agent with USPTO

• Efficient patent searching skills

• Strong analytical skills

• Excellent judgment; ability to apply the judgement independently and make decisions/recommendations

• Skilled in anticipating obstacles and developing innovative solutions in alignment with business strategy

• Self-motivated, able to learn and work independently in a fast-paced, global environment

• Ability to manage a large number of complex projects successfully, and set priorities

• Clear, concise, effective communicator

• Team player

• Demonstrated integrity, initiative, resilience

• Intellectual curiosity willing to stretch thinking and learn new capabilities and skills

• Willingness to identify opportunities and take on new challenges

• Licensing and litigation experience a plus but not required

• Work on-site at either Mettawa, IL or Fond du Lac, WI locations

• Travel will be expected (~20% time)

The anticipated pay range for this position is $100,900 - $160,800 annually. The actual base pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors including job- related knowledge/skills, relevant experience, business needs, and geographic location. In addition to base pay, this position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.

At Brunswick, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the salary range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the specifics of the candidate’s qualifications and the business context.

This position is eligible to participate in Brunswick's comprehensive and high-quality benefits offerings, including medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, 401k (up to 4% match), Health Savings Account (with company contribution), well-being program, product purchase discounts and much more. Details about our benefits can be found here.

Why Brunswick: 

Whatever tomorrow brings, we’ll be at the leading edge.  As the clear leader in the marine industry, we’re committed to our values and supporting our exceptional people. We offer and encourage growth opportunities within and across our many brands. In addition, we’re proud of being recognized for making a splash with numerous awards! 

About Brunswick:  

Brunswick Corporation is a leader in the marine industry, and we’re looking for people just like you to take part in the movement towards better boating for all. We rely on the thoughtful input of people from all backgrounds to create compelling, innovative products for our customers around the globe. As such, diversity, equity, and inclusion are priorities in the enduring culture of our company. As a world leader in emerging recreational products and technologies, when you join our team, you become part of some of the most innovative, forward-looking brands in the marine industry today.   

Next is Now!  

We value growth and development, recognizing that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.

Brunswick is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.  Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is key to innovation and inspiration and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.  If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact [email protected] for support. 

For more information about EEO laws, - click here

Brunswick and Workday Privacy Policies

Brunswick does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors. For help, please contact our support team at: [email protected] or 866-278-6942.

All job offers will come to you via the candidate portal you create when applying through a posted position through https:///www.brunswick.com/careers.  If you are ever unsure about what is being required of you during the application process or its source, please contact HR Shared Services at 866-278-6942 or [email protected].