Patent Counsel (80-100%)

Climeworks seeks a Patent Counsel (80-100%) in Opfikon, Zurich, to advise on patenting, manage innovation mining, and support IP strategy. The role requires 5+ years in patent prosecution, a scientific or engineering background, and strong English skills. Hybrid work model with benefits including 25 vacation days, equity, and professional development support.

The Patent Counsel role at Climeworks involves advising on patent matters and promoting sustainable innovation mining across the organization. The position supports the company’s goal of protecting and advancing its technological innovations in carbon removal.

Responsibilities

• Provide guidance on patenting and related IP matters while promoting innovation mining throughout the company.
• Support inventors and ensure IP readiness for upcoming projects.
• Track Climeworks’ product innovations and changes in the technology landscape.
• Act as a key link between inventors and IP experts to ensure smooth collaboration.
• Analyze the company’s patent portfolio and scientific literature to deliver technical insights.
• Manage core technology areas, focusing on patent filing and ongoing maintenance.
• Improve and streamline innovation mining and IP protection processes to maintain industry leadership.

Requirements

• Hold a scientific or engineering background with broad technical knowledge and a curious, open-minded approach.
• Have at least 5 years of experience in patent prosecution and managing patent portfolios.
• Be dependable, self-motivated, and capable of completing projects independently with strategic thinking.
• Adapt quickly to changing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Be fluent in English, both spoken and written.

Nice to have

• Hold qualification as a patent attorney (CH, EU, or US) with solid knowledge of EU and US patent laws.
• Have experience in patent litigation.
• Have worked in in-house roles within multinational companies.
• Possess strong expertise in engineering, chemistry, or both.
• Have successfully led cross-functional projects to completion.
• Be able to speak German.

What the company offers

• Receive 25 paid vacation days annually, plus public holidays.
• Work flexibly with a hybrid setup, including up to 4 weeks of remote work per year within any EU country.
• Earn fair base pay and an equity package reflecting your contributions.
• Access inclusive parental leave.
• Benefit from a dedicated budget for professional development.
• Earn referral bonuses for successful team hires.

About the company

Climeworks fosters an inclusive environment where everyone is accepted for who they are. The company encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background, identity, or experience, and invites those who may not meet every requirement to apply if they believe they are a strong fit.

• Inclusive and accepting workplace culture.
• Open to applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Encourages applications from women and individuals from minority groups, even if they don’t meet all criteria.