Director IP Litigation

About the role

Merck is seeking an experienced and strategic intellectual property litigation attorney to join its global IP litigation team. The Director will set strategy, manage high‑risk IP matters and lead external counsel on complex cases, reporting to the Vice President of Global Intellectual Property Litigation.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute IP litigation strategy, advising senior leadership on pre‑litigation and high‑risk matters.
• Lead and manage outside counsel from case inception through closure, including alternative dispute resolution.
• Conduct factual investigations, risk assessments and budget management to align with business objectives.
• Collaborate with business units, Office of General Counsel and Global Communications to ensure litigation aligns with overall company goals.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline and a JD from an accredited law school.
• Five or more years of legal experience in a law firm or pharmaceutical corporate setting with IP litigation exposure.
• Member in good standing of a state bar or the District of Columbia.
• Proven ability to manage outside counsel, balance competing priorities and travel domestically/internationally as needed.

Required skills

• Intellectual Property Law
• Patent Litigation
• Litigation Management
• Legal Research and Analysis
• Negotiation
• Client Counseling
• Confidentiality
• Intellectual Property Portfolio Management

What we offer

• Base salary range $210,400 – $331,100 per year, plus annual bonus and long‑term incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) retirement plan, paid holidays, vacation and sick days.
• Flexible work arrangement with primary location in Rahway, NJ and some remote flexibility.