Intellectual Property Attorney

Nakupuna Consulting is seeking an Intellectual Property (IP) Attorney to support legal and strategic initiatives related to the Department of Defense (DoD) Enterprise Software Initiative (ESI). This role is essential to protecting the organizations and clients' intellectual property interests as they relate to software licensing, procurement, and custom training development. The IP Attorney plays a critical role in safeguarding intellectual property assets by preparing key legal documents, delivering strategic legal counsel, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and policies to advance the organization's strategic objectives.

The following reflects management's definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign additional duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of legal agreements related to intellectual property, including software licensing agreements, service agreements, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), and technology transfer agreements.
• Advise internal teams and leadership on IP rights, protections, and obligations associated with DoD software procurement and training development activities.
• Prepare and manage patent, copyright, and trademark filings, as well as oversee the enforcement of IP rights and respond to infringement claims.
• Evaluate risks and provide legal counsel on matters related to the development and use of proprietary training materials under DoD Enterprise Software Initiative (ESI) projects.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal laws, DoD regulations, and contract terms regarding intellectual property, licensing, and data rights.
• Support the development and review of internal policies and procedures related to intellectual property and technology use.
• Collaborate with program managers, technical staff, and contracting professionals to identify and protect intellectual property created through custom training or service delivery.
• Provide legal guidance during audits, disputes, or litigation involving IP assets, and coordinate with external counsel as needed.
• Stay up to date on evolving IP laws, FAR/DFARS regulations, and DoD guidance impacting software procurement and intellectual property rights.
• May supervise or mentor junior legal staff and support cross-functional project teams as a legal subject matter expert.

Skills/Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge of intellectual property law, including copyright, trademark, and patent law
• Understanding of FAR, DFARS, and DoD policies related to IP, software licensing, and commercial item acquisition
• Strong legal drafting and negotiation skills
• Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving, and risk assessment abilities
• Effective communicator with the ability to translate complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders
• Capable of managing multiple priorities and working independently with minimal supervision
• Experience advising cross-functional teams and supporting compliance in technology-related legal matters

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active membership in good standing with a U.S. state bar

Experience:

• 4-6 years of experience practicing intellectual property law or a related legal field
• Experience with government contracting, software licensing, and data rights in federal environments
• Familiarity with DoD contracting policies and acquisition lifecycle preferred

Clearance Requirements: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance (active clearance preferred). Must be a U.S. citizen.

Location:The position is primarily based at Nakupuna facilities in Arlington, VA; however, the candidate is expected to support up to four in-person training events annually in San Diego, CA, or Washington, D.C.

Physical Requirements: The ideal candidate must at a minimum be able to meet the following physical requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to perform repetitive motions with the hands, wrists, and fingers.
• Ability to engage in and follow audible communications in emergency situations.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer.