Intellectual Property, Associate Counsel

This role is will provide intellectual property ("IP") legal support to Stryker’s care.ai business, including its communication and data-generating medical devices. The role partners with the divisional IP team to develop and execute on business’s IP strategy. This role also advises internal clients and manages outside counsel on a wide range of issues including patents, trade secrets, trademarks, copyrights, open source, agreements, freedom to operate analysis, M&A, and IP risk mitigation. This role will work closely with IP managers, IP litigation counsels, business counsels, R&D, business development, and commercial business leadership.  

This is a remote position; however, there is a strong preference for candidates located in Orlando, FL, Kalamazoo, MI or San Jose, CA. Up to 30% of this role’s time may be spent travelling. 

What you will do: 

• Assist with the development and implementation of IP strategy  

• Draft, negotiate, and advise on complex IP agreements, including licenses and IP provisions in commercial agreements  

• Counsel on patentability and freedom to operate issues  

• Coordinate and collaborate on patent portfolio development and management  

• Work closely with legal team and internal clients on IP litigation and other legal disputes  

• Support Stryker’s growth by providing IP diligence on our acquisitions  

• Counsel on IP matters related to patent, trade secret, copyright, and trademark law  

• Develop and provide IP training  

What you will need: 

Required 

• Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering/science, biomedical engineering or equivalent  

• Juris Doctor degree and member in good standing of at least one U.S. state bar  

• 10+ years of relevant work experience 

Preferred 

• Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) 

• Legal experience in IP law (law firm or in-house), with a focus on digital, AI, and software-enabled technologies 

• Expertise in patent clearance and freedom-to-operate analysis with proven results 

• Experience negotiating complex technology agreements, including licenses and IP provisions 

• Proven ability to oversee patent preparation and prosecution for digital and software technologies 

• Strong track record of cross-functional collaboration within matrixed organizations 

• Ability to build and influence relationships at all organizational levels, including senior leadership 

• Commitment to integrity, accountability, and high ethical standards 

• Skilled in managing multiple high-priority projects in fast-paced, dynamic environments  

$149,300 - $329,000 salary plus bonus eligible + benefits. Actual minimum and maximum may vary based on location. Individual pay is based on skills, experience, and other relevant factors.