Patent Counsel (m/f/d)
For more than a century, we have been shaping progress in our product sector as a technology leader – whether it's starter motors, generators, start/stop systems or mild hybridization. Innovation, development expertise and the highest quality standards make us a reliable partner for automotive manufacturers – at 14 locations worldwide. Our products are not only efficient and durable but also provide high functional flexibility and the right answers for global product platforms and more stringent CO2 requirements.
Patent Counsel (m/f/d)
Shape the future of mobility with us. And your own.
SEG Automotive combines the strength of a global player with the short decision-making paths and culture of a medium-sized company. We offer you a fulfilling, challenging and future-proof job: With us, you can make a contribution to society – and at the same time have a wide range of opportunities for personal and international development. Become part of our intercultural team of over 6,000 employees in 14 countries. This is how you make an impact – on the automotive industry and your own career.
Your responsibilities:
Further development and implementation of the global patent portfolio strategy to support corporate objectives, taking into account strategic relevance, risks, and costs
Independent legal and strategic handling of patent matters in a national and international environment, including the assessment of inventions, protection strategies, patent office procedures, oppositions, disputes, and portfolio decisions in close alignment with the business units
Advising and supporting the business units, particularly in the development and market launch of new products, freedom-to-operate clearances, collision risks, and the defense of our patents
Identifying, capturing, and evaluating protectable innovations, as well as conducting invention disclosure discussions in collaboration with the business units
Avoiding infringement of third-party intellectual property rights by analyzing the respective scope of protection; developing solutions to work around third-party rights in collaboration with the business units
Limiting or invalidating obstructive third-party intellectual property rights; filing oppositions and nullity actions
Enforcing our own intellectual property rights and defending against third-party rights asserted against us
Analyzing technology trends, competitor portfolios, and patent landscapes to support strategic decisions in collaboration with the business units
Reviewing, drafting, and supporting negotiations of intellectual property agreements, particularly license, cooperation, and transfer agreements
Preparing decision papers and recommendations for action for our business units and management, with a clear focus on risk, economic viability, and our business interests
Managing and supporting external patent attorneys and lawyers in patent proceedings before offices and courts
Ensuring efficient, effective, and globally aligned ways of working
Further developing processes and conducting training in the field of patents
Your profile:
Completed degree in engineering or natural sciences, preferably in electrical engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering, physics, or a comparable field
Completed training and admission as a German and/or European patent attorney
Several years of relevant professional experience in a corporate patent department, an internationally oriented patent law firm, or a comparable role
Sound knowledge of German, European, and international patent law; additional experience in trademark law, design law, copyright law, domain law, know-how protection, anti-counterfeiting, and/or IP litigation is an advantage
Understanding of technical products and business models in the mobility and automotive supplier industry
Experience in developing, managing, and optimizing international patent portfolios
Experience in freedom-to-operate analyses, intellectual property assessments, and developing options for action to minimize risk
Experience in opposition, nullity, and/or infringement proceedings
Experience in negotiating and drafting license, cooperation, or technology agreements is an advantage
Experience working with international teams, external law firms, authorities, and operational departments
Strong analytical thinking, clear communication, negotiation skills, assertiveness, and the ability to assess legal risks from a business perspective
Structured, independent way of working with a high level of integrity, confidentiality, and sense of responsibility
Business-fluent German and English, both written and spoken
Willingness to undertake occasional national and international business travel
What we'll be offering you in the future:
Flexible work hours with flex time and remote work / hybrid work
Additional days off in addition to 30 vacation days
Support for personal development (Learning hub@SEG)
AvwL (age-related capital-forming benefits), ergonomic workstations
Company events (e.g., BBQ, Family Day, etc.), subsidized meals in the cafeteria Employee Assistance Program (EAP) INSITE
Free parking garage with ample parking spaces
Additional benefits under the collective bargaining agreement for the metal and electrical industry
Affordable electric vehicle charging at headquarters
Sustainable, eco-friendly location
Flat hierarchies (town hall meetings, direct sessions with the CEO for Q&A)
Talent development through the SEG Potential Hub
Contakt
SEG Automotive Germany GmbH | Lotterbergstraße 30 | 70499 Stuttgart | Germany | www.seg-automotive.com
SEG Automotive +49 711 4009-8000 contact@seg-automotive.com
Apply online www.seg-automotive.com