Intellectual Property Attorney

We are seeking an Intellectual Property Attorney who will initiate and lead intellectual property initiatives at a software company focused on defense and aerospace solutions. In this role you will be responsible for leading company efforts to research, draft, prepare, file and manage patents, licensing, trademarks, and copyright registrations applicable to our company software and digital solutions.

The Mission Starts Here  

TheIncLab engineers and delivers intelligent digital applications and platforms that revolutionize how our customers and mission-critical teams achieve success.   We are where innovation meets purpose; and where your career can meet purpose as well.  We are looking for an IP Attorney that has experience working with software and advanced technologies.  If this is you, we encourage you to apply and take the first step in joining our dynamic and impactful company.

Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept  

As an Intellectual Property Attorney, you will play a key role in protecting and managing the company’s intellectual property. Your responsibilities will include:

• Draft and negotiate software licensing agreements, including those tied to federal government and defense contracts.
• Advise on strategies for patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets.
• Manage IP portfolios, renewals, and monitoring for infringement.
• Develop policies to ensure compliance with U.S. and international IP law.
• Conduct patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses for software and defense technologies.
• Prepare and file patent disclosures, compliance documents, and regulatory submissions.
• Advise on export control and government contract provisions affecting IP ownership and licensing.
• Track and ensure timely compliance with USPTO, WIPO, and foreign IP office deadlines.
• Partner with product, engineer, R&D, and business development teams to align IP strategy with business goals and compliance requirements.

• Juris Doctor (JD) with active bar membership
• Additional background or degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field a plus.
• Licensed to practice before the USPTO in patent matters.

• 5+years of experience in an IP law firm, with a strong track record negotiating, drafting, and litigating IP agreements, including in the software sector.
• In-depth knowledge of software licensing, open-source software compliance, and U.S. government contract regulations dealing with IP.
• Superior legal writing, negotiation, and analytical skills; ability to communicate complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
• Familiarity with export controls and compliance requirements for technology used in defense projects.
• Experience developing and defending IP portfolios for software companies operating in high-security or regulated domains.
• Current or former professional software industry experience.
• This is a hybrid position requiring three days in-office (Tuesday to Thursday) at one of our facilities located in Nashville, TN; or McLean, VA.
• Ability to travel up to 20% of the time based on company and customer needs.
• U.S. Security Clearance Requirements:Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen and willing and eligible to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance at the Secret level. Existing clearance is preferred.

At TheIncLab we recognize that innovation thrives when employees are provided with ample support and resources. Our benefits packages reflect that: 

• Hybrid and flexible work schedules  

• Professional development programs  
• Training and certification reimbursement  
• Extended and floating holiday schedule   
• Paid time off and Paid volunteer time  
• Health and Wellness Benefits include options for Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance along with access to Wellness, Mental Health, and Employee Assistance Programs.  
• 100% Company Paid Benefits that include STD, LTD, and Basic Life insurance.  
• 401(k) Plan Options with employer matching  
• Incentive bonuses for eligible clearances, performance, and employee referrals.  
• A company culture that values your individual strengths, career goals, and contributions to the team.  

About TheIncLab  

Founded in 2015, TheIncLab (“TIL”) the first human-centered artificial intelligence (AI+X) lab.is   We engineer complex, integrated solutions that combine cutting-edge AI technologies with emerging systems-of-systems to solve some of the most difficult challenges in the defense and aerospace industries.  Our work spans diverse technological landscapes, from rapid ideation and prototyping to deployment.   

At TIL, we foster a culture of relentless optimism.  No problem is too hard, no project is too big, and no challenge is too complex to tackle. This is possible due to the positive attitude of our teams.  We approach every problem with a “yes” attitude and focus on results.  Our motto, “demo or die,” encompasses the idea that failure is not an option.   

We do all of this with a work ethic rooted in kindness and professionalism.  The positive attitude of our teams is only possible due to the support TIL provides to each individual.   

At TIL, we believe that every challenge is an opportunity for growth and innovation.  Our teams are encouraged to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to complex problems.  We understand that the path to success is not always straightforward, but we are committed to persevering and finding a way forward.  

Our culture of relentless optimism is not just about having a positive attitude; it is about taking action and making things happen.  We believe in the power of collaboration and teamwork, and we know that by working together, we can achieve great things.  Our teams are made up of individuals who are passionate about their work and dedicated to making a difference.  

Learn more about TheIncLab and our job opportunities at www.theinclab.com.  

**Salary range guidance provided is not a guarantee of compensation. Offers of employment may be at a salary range that is outside of this range and will be based on qualifications, experience, and possible contractual requirements.  

**This is a direct hire position, and we do not accept resumes from third-party recruiters or agencies.