Careers

We are always eager to hear from individuals who are enthusiastic about technology, enjoy learning, and are interested in preparing and filing patent applications at a firm that represents clients working on the cutting edge of a wide range of technologies.

Candidates should have a strong technical background, excellent writing and communications skills, and be able to work efficiently and independently. An advanced degree in electrical engineering, computer science, physics, or equivalent experience is strongly preferred.

If a position at our firm interests you, please submit your cover letter, resume, transcripts, and a writing sample (if available) in PDF format to [email protected].

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Perks & Benefits

Retirement: 401(k) plan
Healthcare: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Short-term Disability, Long-term Disability, and Life Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts
Hybrid or Remote Working

Life at VPYJ LLP

At Van Pelt, Yi and James LLP, we understand that a cohesive and motivated team is the backbone of our success. Our social events are a vital part of our firm’s culture, designed to foster camaraderie, strengthen bonds, and simply have fun together. Here’s a glimpse into how we bring our team closer through engaging and memorable social activities.

What Our
Employees Say

When I left engineering and joined Van Pelt, Yi and James, I knew nothing about patent prosecution. The partners, in particular Lee Van Pelt and Bill James, were and continue to be excellent mentors to me. I’ve learned how to draft strong patent applications and effective office action responses, as well as how to excel at client-facing responsibilities, such as running patent strategy meetings and reporting to busy start-up founders and in-house counsel. In the wake of the pandemic, I appreciate the flexible work arrangement with no in-office requirements. I’m approaching my 20th work anniversary and can easily see myself working here for another 20 years.

It has been a pleasure and privilege to be a part of the VPYJ LLP family. Here, we work with inventors and clients ranging from early-stage startups to established multinational corporations, which provides a unique opportunity to engage in creative and strategic intellectual property portfolio counseling in addition to developing breadth and depth in patent prosecution expertise. Our culture is collegial, dynamic, and challenging, enabling each individual to define their own professional goals and career trajectory. My colleagues and mentors are fun to work with, supportive, and wise. I have made life-long friends here at VPYJ, and continue to be inspired by them.

Working at Van Pelt, Yi & James has been great. The environment is friendly and supportive. I have found that the firm provides a place with interesting work projects in cutting edge fields, and where you are interacting with top minds within technology industries in Silicon Valley and beyond. I really appreciate that there is control over your own schedule and the top tier compensation and benefits.

VPYJ LLP is a rare place that allows you do to meaningful, interesting work, in a friendly environment. The people are truly exceptional — not only talented and professional, but also supportive. The partners are generous with their time and collaborative, while allowing independence and early access to clients. I have had opportunities to work closely with clients from their first patent applications through due diligence for later financing rounds. I have gained invaluable insights into clients’ technologies and businesses, and been able to build strong, lasting relationships with them. Working with clients in different technologies means that the work is consistently interesting, engaging, and teaches me something new every day. My time at VPYJ has been invaluable for my professional growth.

Careers

Perks & Benefits

Life at VPYJ LLP

What Our Employees Say

What Our
Employees Say