About Accelleron
Accelleron is at the forefront of driving sustainability in the marine and energy industries as a global technology leader specializing in turbocharging, fuel injection, and digital solutions for heavy-duty applications. With a legacy spanning over 100 years as a trusted partner in the industry, we proudly serve customers in more than 100 locations across over 50 countries. Our team of 3,000 dedicated employees is continuously innovating to deliver top-tier products, services, and solutions critical to the energy transition. At Accelleron, you will collaborate within a team of experts in an exciting international environment, dedicated to excellence and innovation. Together, we empower our customers to lead the transition toward sustainable industries by leveraging cutting-edge technology, extensive expertise, and intelligent solutions. We wholeheartedly embrace diversity and inclusion, celebrating the unique differences that strengthen our organization.
Position Overview
In this pivotal role, you will report to the Group Head of IP, serving as a key technical and IP specialist within Accelleron’s Global IP organization. You will independently drive the protection of Accelleron’s technologies. With your deep engineering expertise, you will evaluate invention disclosures, patent applications, and patents, identify strategic IP risks, and shape impactful patent strategies. As the primary expert contact for patent matters, you will collaborate directly with R&D leadership, project managers, and external counsels, using sound judgment to ensure robust, forward-looking IP protection across the business.
Your Responsibilities
- Patent Portfolio Management:
- Provide expert, business-aligned evaluations of invention disclosures (including prior art searches) to support strategic decision-making in the IP review team.
- Maintain and manage the company’s patent and design patent portfolio, guiding patent attorneys during prosecution processes.
- Prepare regular assessments of the patent portfolio for periodic presentations to the IP review team.
- Collaborate closely with R&D and cross-functional teams to develop robust IP protection and defense strategies.
- Freedom to Operate (FTO):
- Coordinate FTO processes, including prior art searches and IP risk assessments.
- Provide expert IP guidance to project managers during new product development, ensuring early identification and effective mitigation of risks.
- Continuously enhance the FTO process, incorporating AI solutions.
- Third-Party Patent Monitoring:
- Assess and track relevant third-party patent applications and changes in legal status.
- Conduct technical and IP assessments of potential conflict cases with experts and patent attorneys, leading each case towards successful resolution.
- IP Processes & Tools:
- Maintain IP management tools (e.g., Diams iQ) and recommend optimizations where needed.
- Train employees on patent-related processes and document reviews.
- Continuously improve IP processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and value for stakeholders.
- Contractual & Enforcement Support:
- Review IP clauses in contracts and agreements, as well as General Terms and Conditions (GTCs).
- Assist in IPR enforcement and infringement cases as a member of Accelleron’s enforcement board team, leveraging technical and strategic insights to secure successful resolutions.
- Collaboration:
- Serve as the main contact for external law firms, coordinating closely with internal divisions on all patent-related matters.
- Provide consultancy to inventors, project managers, and management teams.
- Work closely with the IP Specialist in China regarding patent and IPR enforcement matters.
- Evaluate supplier requests for the use of Accelleron’s IPRs, making decisions that maintain brand integrity and prevent unauthorized promotional use.
Your Background
- Strong technical background in mechanical engineering, ideally with experience in:
- Turbocharging/Turbomachinery
- Internal combustion engines and power generation systems
- Materials and additive manufacturing
- Experience as a patent officer or patent engineer, or other relevant experience in intellectual property preferred. A strong motivation to make this career move is also considered.
- Structured working methods, planning, prioritization, and strategic skills.
- Ability to work independently with high accuracy and initiative.
- Strong interpersonal skills and effective communication abilities (written and verbal).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, MS Teams, and SharePoint.
- Interest and capability to identify AI opportunities that enhance IP operational efficiency, optimize resources, and support cost-effective IP management.
- Business fluency in German and English.
Additionally Nice to Have
- Familiarity with IP management tools (e.g., Diams iQ, Anaqua, Orbit).
- Knowledge of patent law processes and enforcement strategies.
- Ability to coordinate with global teams and external partners.
- Strong analytical skills and curiosity are advantageous for this role.
- Basic knowledge or experience in trademark management (filings, prosecution, maintenance) and an understanding of trademark governance (usage rules, policies, strategic alignment) is considered an asset.
Your Benefits
- Canteen
- Childcare
- Modern office with smart working opportunities
- Flexible working model
- Attractive holiday plan
- Employee assistance program
We look forward to receiving your application. Apply online using the form below. Please note: Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For more information about Accelleron, we encourage you to visit our website at accelleron.com.
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Job Family Group:
Engineering