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Patent Agent

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Job ID 317037 Date posted 10/30/2025 Location : Wayzata, Minnesota Category  LAW Job Status  Salaried Full Time

Cargill’s size and scale allows us to make a positive impact in the world. Our purpose is to nourish the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. We are a family company providing food, ingredients, agricultural solutions and industrial products that are vital for living. We connect farmers with markets so they can prosper. We connect customers with ingredients so they can make meals people love. And we connect families with daily essentials — from eggs to edible oils, salt to skincare, feed to alternative fuel. Our 160,000 colleagues, operating in 70 countries, make essential products that touch billions of lives each day. Join us and reach your higher purpose at Cargill.

Job Purpose and Impact

The Patent Agent will handle the intellectual property affairs for our company with collaboration from senior lawyers and agents. In this role, you will advise and represent the organization on legal issues concerning patent matters.

Key Accountabilities

  • Prepare and prosecute applications for patents.
  • Provide legal advice on the patentability of inventions.
  • Support intellectual property litigation, dispute resolution, intellectual property related agreements, and merger and acquisition activities on an as needed basis partnering with lawyers.
  • Build knowledge of the organization, processes, and customers.
  • Provide expert thought leadership in your field and work with limited direction, using additional research and interpretation to identify issues or problems. You may provide direction to supporting team members and be a strategic contributor.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in a technical or scientific field
  • Minimum of six years of related work experience
  • Registration to practice in front of U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
  • Excellent communication, advocacy, and drafting skills
  • Ability to effectively handle conflict and apply judgment in counseling
  • Ability to solve problems using a creative, resilient, and flexible style and approach
  • Confirmed ability to assess and handle risk

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Excellent academic track record
  • Master’s degree, doctoral degree, or equivalent experience in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, biochemistry, food science, or a related field
  • Minimum three years of experience drafting and prosecuting patents in the United States

External Applicant Information

This position is open to candidates located in the Minneapolis area.The role follows a hybrid schedule. 

The expected salary for this position is approximately $131,000 to $175,000. Compensation varies depending on a wide array of factors including but not limited to the specific location, certifications, education, and level of experience. The disclosed range estimate may be adjusted for any applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. This position is eligible for a discretionary incentive award. The incentive award amount is dependent upon company performance and your personal. 

At Cargill we put people first. As part of your overall rewards, we offer a comprehensive benefit program including medical and/or other benefits dependent on the position offered and hours worked. Visit: https://www.cargill.com/page/my-health/mh-health-and-wellness to learn more (subject to certain collective bargaining agreements for Union positions).

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet.

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