Patent Portfolio Manager

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

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Job Description

Ciena is currently seeking a Patent Portfolio Manager to join our legal department to manage the company’s patents and patent applications in the optical devices and optical networking areas. The successful candidate’s responsibilities will include working with the rest of the patent prosecution team to strategically manage Ciena’s worldwide patent portfolio of more than 3,000 properties, promoting the patent development program within the internal R&D community, contributing during internal Patent Review Board meetings, receiving and evaluating invention disclosures, managing outside patent prosecution counsel, assessing the value of patent acquisition prospects and helping to define Ciena’s overall Intellectual Property strategy.  The successful candidate will report to the Head of Patent Prosecution and will have the opportunity to support other IP projects as appropriate. This is a part time role (~16 hours a week) that can be remote based in India.

Required Skills:

• Strong technical knowledge of telecommunication networks and devices
• Deep understanding of patent drafting, claim construction and claim charting, especially in the electrical arts
• Ability to effectively manage and run an invention intake system and the Patent Review Board
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across all reporting levels of an organization
• Self-starter capable of working independently and as part of a team
• Patent assertion and litigation support experience a bonus

Required Experience:

• B.S. degree in electrical engineering, physics, telecommunication engineering or software engineering; Advanced degree or commensurate work experience strongly preferred
• 5+ years of US patent prosecution experience in a law firm and/or corporate legal department
• Experience working with non-US patent offices, with a focus on Europe, India and Asia
• Previous experience managing a patent portfolio preferred

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At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard.  Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.