IP Counsel

The role

This IP Counsel will own the full range of intellectual property issues including patents, trade secrets, trademarks, copyright, and domain names. You will build IP infrastructure, manage the patent portfolio, and support commercial transactions.

What you will do

• Develop and lead an IP strategy aligned with the technology roadmap
• Build and manage the patent portfolio from invention capture through prosecution
• Establish a trade secret protection program
• Oversee the trademark, brand, and domain name portfolios
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreement provisions involving IP
• Lead IP due diligence for financings, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships
• Act as a business partner to cross functional project teams
• Provide general legal support across the business

Required qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Active bar membership in good standing
• 6+ years of intellectual property experience (law firm and/or in-house)
• Experience managing patent prosecution and portfolios
• Experience drafting and negotiating IP-related commercial agreements
• Technical fluency to engage with engineers and scientists on complex processes, hardware, and software
• Strong drafting, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple competing priorities
• High degree of ownership and accountability

Nice to have

• Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
• Technical degree in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, metallurgy, mechanical or electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field
• Experience in a fast-paced startup or similar organization
• Experience with IP in mining, energy, chemicals, advanced materials, industrial processing, robotics, or other physical or deep-tech industries
• Experience with international filing strategy (including PCT practice), trade secret programs, and open-source governance
• Experience with IP due diligence, licensing transactions, and IP disputes or litigation support
• Experience building or improving processes from scratch, including by leveraging software and/or AI

About the company

Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company. They aim to supply critical minerals for energy, AI, and defense technologies by combining industry expertise with software and automation.