Intellectual Property Administrative Assistant (1 year contract)

**Please note that this is a 1 year contract**

Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The MDA Space team of more than 3,400 space experts in Canada, the US and the UK has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that’s been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we’ll take you there. For more information, visit www.mda.space.

The Role:

The Intellectual Property (IP) Administrative Assistant will provide support to the Business Area (BA) IP Team including the Director of Technology Strategy, IP Coordinator and inventors. They will support the efficient filing of new registered intellectual property and its prosecution.  Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Document Preparation: Supporting the IP Coordinator in the preparation and editing IP-related documents, such as invention disclosures, patent applications and trademark registrations.
2. Filing and Correspondence: Support IP Coordinator in the filing of IP applications and prosecution documents with MDA Space’s external counsel and handling and organizing all IP-related correspondence to and from external IP counsel including patent and trademark applications, office actions, deadlines and correspondence.
3. Data Entry and Docketing: Entering data into MDA Space’s IP Management Software (IPMS) and other IP related databases or repositories to track IP applications, registrations, and deadlines. Maintaining a docket of upcoming deadlines and events, such as patent application filings and trademark registration renewals.
4. Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of IP applications, registrations, requests for cross-divisional sharing, and other related documents. Support record keeping of any other IP related databases.
5. Reporting; Support IP Coordinator in reporting IP related communications, decisions, performances and plans.
6. IP Financial Accounting: Process all incoming IP-related expenses and maintain as-billed ledger of annual IP expenses.
7. Administrative Support: Provide general administrative support to BA IP Team including coordinating meetings with inventor teams and external counsel, as well as training and IP prospecting sessions.
8. Special Projects: Assisting with special projects, such as data migration, software implementation, or process improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications, Experience and Skills:

1. Administrative Assistant or Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma or relevant post-secondary education
2. IP Knowledge: Understanding of legal terms, IP concepts, laws, and regulations.
3. Administrative Experience: Minimum of 3 years in a time-sensitive patent administration role with docketing experience.
4. Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
5. Organizational Skills: Strong organizational and time management skills, with ability to multi-task within a fast-paced environment.
6. Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail and accuracy, including strong proof-reading skills.
7. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook); ability to learn and use electronic tools, systems, and applications; experience with IP Management software an asset.
8. Discretion and Confidentiality: Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

Other Considerations:

Successful candidates must obtain and hold security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR. 

MDA provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. As a team member of MDA, you and your qualified dependents are eligible to participate in a benefit plan that ensures a comprehensive level of protection through competitive health care including; extended healthcare and flexible drug plans, dental and vision benefits, disability income protection, life insurance, group retirement savings plans; and an employee and family assistance program. 

The compensation range for this position is $60,000 -75,000 annually. The specific compensation offered will be based on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.

MDA is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us.