Trainee Patent Attorney (Engineering)

Spoor & Fisher has a vacancy in our Cape Town office for a Trainee Patent Attorney / Patent Professional Intern in our Engineering team.

Applicants should hold, at least, a Bachelor of Engineering degree (B.Eng or BSc Eng) in the mechanical, electrical, electronic, electromechanical or similar fields.

The successful candidate will embark on a structured career pathway, beginning with an internship while pursuing an LLB degree. Upon completion of your legal studies, you will have the opportunity to undertake articles, gaining invaluable practical experience under the mentorship of experienced patent attorneys. This comprehensive training is designed to equip you with both the technical and legal expertise required to qualify and practise as a patent attorney in South Africa. It opens up a rewarding profession at the intersection of engineering and law, allowing you to protect clients' inventions both locally and internationally.

To excel in this profession, you should possess a robust analytical mindset and meticulous attention to detail, enabling you to interpret complex technical information and legal principles. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for drafting patent specifications and engaging with clients, inventors and fellow attorneys worldwide. The role demands adaptability and perseverance, as patent attorneys must keep pace with evolving technologies and the changing legal environment. Integrity and professionalism are vital when handling confidential client information. Additionally, the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team along with a proactive approach to problem-solving, are qualities that set successful patent attorneys apart in this dynamic and interdisciplinary field.

If you are dynamic, diligent, and dedicated, and are prepared to work hard towards becoming a patent attorney at a prestigious law firm, then this opportunity could be the ideal path for you. Take the first step towards this exciting opportunity by submitting your application and supporting documents as outlined below.

Please email the following documents to and include the wording "Patent Professional Intern - Engineering" in the subject line:

• CV;
• Academic record and degree certificate;
• Identity document; and
• Grade12/Matric certificate.

Preference will be given to employees from the designated groups, as per the Employment Equity Act.

For further information please contact Harold Mdlalose, Human Resources Specialist for Spoor & Fisher in South Africa, at . Find out more about our Engineering expertise.