Assistant General Counsel IP

About Intuitive Surgical
Intuitive Surgical is a global leader in minimally invasive care and innovative surgical robotics. We advance the boundaries of medical care by continually fostering an environment rich in discovery, problem-solving, and growth. Our mission is to drive better, safer outcomes for patients, care teams, and hospitals, while cultivating a culture where professionals are empowered and inspired.
Role Summary
We are seeking an exceptional Assistant General Counsel, Intellectual Property, with deep expertise in patent portfolio management, IP-related transactions, and IP counseling.
This role offers the chance to work at the intersection of some of the most exciting technologies in robotics and medtech today: robotic assisted surgery, AI, computer vision, advanced instrumentation, imaging, and digital surgery. As an in-house IP attorney, you would partner directly with world-class engineers, scientists, physicians, and business leaders to help develop IP strategy for technologies that have the potential to improve patient outcomes and transform how surgery is performed around the world.
Intuitive is entering an exciting period of growth as we continue to expand our platforms, integrate AI and digital technologies, and push the boundaries of what is possible in minimally invasive care. If you enjoy working on breakthrough technology, working closely with innovators, and seeing your work directly influence the trajectory of a business and an industry, we invite you to apply to join our dynamic team.
Primary Function of Position
The Assistant General Counsel, IP will lead and manage an active patent portfolio, including management of patent application preparation, patent prosecution, and IP strategic development to identify and protect Intuitive’s valuable innovations.
The Assistant General Counsel, IP will support a wide variety of IP-related transactional matters, including NDAs and other agreements covering collaboration, product development, and suppliers.
The Assistant General Counsel, IP will support strategic deals and investments, such as M&A and licensing, including conducting IP-related due diligence, crafting and negotiating deal agreements, and advising on IP-related deal strategies.
The Assistant General Counsel, IP will provide additional comprehensive IP-related legal support, including: litigation support (as needed), trademark protection, and trade secret protection.
The Assistant General Counsel, IP l will engage directly with engineers, scientists, management, clinical specialists, and executives, to translate technology developments into strong IP protection and support key business objectives.
The Assistant General Counsel, IP should become informed on industry trends and provide advice about industry and regulatory developments as well as development and implementation of operational and risk management processes and procedures.
The Assistant General Counsel, IP will report to the Associate General Counsel, IP Strategy, and must escalate issues, as appropriate, and partner with all legal team members.
The Assistant General Counsel, IP must represent Intuitive Surgical with external parties with professionalism and strategic insight, including customers, regulators, affiliates, and industry trade groups
Job/Skill Requirements
Minimum of 10+ years experience in intellectual property law as a practitioner at a law firm and/or in-house legal department experience, with a substantial focus on patent prosecution.
At least 2+ years of in-house counsel experience strongly preferred, where responsibilities included patent portfolio management as well as IP-related transactions (with support of litigation and due diligence a plus).
Technical degree, professional background, and/or significant experience related to medical devices, robotics, mechanical engineering, or a related field (electrical engineering or other engineering specialties considered).
J.D. degree and membership in good standing with the California bar or eligible for immediate registration as a Registered In House Counsel “RHIC”.
Admitted to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Ability to assess legal and business opportunities and risks related to IP assets in support of M&A, investment opportunities, licensing, and purchasing or selling of patent portfolios.
Exceptional communication and writing skills, able to distill complex technical and legal concepts for varied audiences.
Ability to closely manage outside counsel and control matter costs.
Willingness to travel on occasion as required.
Other Personal Characteristics:
Engaging, courageous, and self-directed, accustomed to managing with a collaborative, fact-based approach.
Collaborative, resourceful and adaptable—able to anticipate needs and navigate a rapidly changing environment.
Intellectually curious and eager to learn new areas of law and technology and apply knowledge effectively.
If you are ready to make an impact at the forefront of surgical technology innovation—and you have the drive to expand your expertise with a world-class team—we encourage you to apply.
**Please note this role requires being onsite 3 days per week in our Sunnyvale, CA office.

Employment type
Full-time

Work arrangement
Hybrid