Patent Agent

Job Title : Patent Case Manager

Location : Québec or Montréal, QC (Hybrid work model)

Position Type

• : Permanent, Full-time

About EXFO

EXFO is a global leader in test, monitoring, and analytics solutions for the telecommunications industry. Our success is driven by innovation, collaboration, and the talent of our teams worldwide.

Role Overview

The Patent Agent / Patent Case Manager plays a key role in the development and protection of EXFO’s global innovation portfolio.

Working closely with inventors, engineering and R&D teams, as well as external legal partners, this individual is involved in the full lifecycle of patent-related activities—from invention assessment to drafting and prosecution of applications, as well as strategic portfolio management.

This role directly contributes to protecting EXFO’s technological innovations across advanced domains such as telecommunications, networking, software, optics, and high-performance technologies.

Depending on the candidate’s experience and profile, the role may evolve toward deeper involvement in strategic intellectual property initiatives, portfolio development, and patent advisory activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate invention disclosures and assess patentability, strategic relevance, and alignment with business objectives
• Participate in the development and execution of global IP protection strategies across multiple technology domains
• Draft, file, and prosecute patent applications in collaboration with inventors and external legal counsel
• Prepare responses to office actions and contribute to prosecution strategy decisions
• Manage and track patent portfolio activities, including deadlines, filings, and associated management systems
• Work closely with engineering and R&D teams to identify and protect high-value innovations
• Liaise with external law firms and foreign associates across multiple jurisdictions
• Contribute to patent-related analyses, including freedom-to-operate studies and potential infringement assessments
• Support continuous improvement of IP processes, practices, and portfolio optimization initiatives
• Monitor emerging technologies, market trends, and IP developments relevant to EXFO’s business areas

Candidate Profile

• Degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related technical field
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in patent management, intellectual property, or related activities in a technology-driven environment
• Experience in telecommunications, networking, software, photonics, electronics, or related high-tech industries considered a strong asset
• Patent Agent qualification considered a strong asset
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in multidisciplinary environments
• Strong proficiency in both French and English, written and spoken

Languages

• French: Advanced
• English: Advanced (international environment)

Why join EXFO?

• Innovative and growing technology company
• Collaborative and stimulating work environment
• Projects with real business impact
• Flexible hybrid work model
• Comprehensive benefits package

EXFO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.