Senior Director, Patents

NVIDIA redefined modern computer graphics, high performance computing and artificial intelligence. We are well positioned as the ‘AI Computing Company,’ and our GPUs are the brains powering Deep Learning software frameworks, accelerated analytics, big data, modern data centers, smart cities, and driving autonomous vehicles. If you are forward-thinking, hardworking, driven and if collaborating with extraordinary people across countries sounds interesting, this job is for you!

NVIDIA is seeking a Senior Director, Patents to support our innovation around the world. In this critical leadership role, you will be located in our Santa Clara, CA headquarters and responsible for developing and executing a global patent strategy that protects our groundbreaking inventions. You will lead a world-class team of patent attorneys and professionals, and partner directly with NVIDIA engineering groups to build a portfolio that demonstrates NVIDIA innovation. Our work supports the imagination behind video games and films, as well as cutting-edge technologies such as deep learning, autonomous vehicles, and robotics. We operate at the intersection of law and the most transformative trends in technology. We value initiative, continuous learning, and collaboration.

What you’ll be doing:

• Strategically manage our patent portfolio to align with NVIDIA’s business objectives

• Ensure patent coverage across all key product and research areas

• Directly handle enhanced prosecution and other special patent matters to secure our most critical inventions

• Provide expert counsel to senior leadership on patent matters

• Support and develop a high-performing team of IP professionals

What we need to see:

• At least 15 years of experience in patent prosecution matters with an understanding of how patents are filed and prosecuted

• 6+ years of leadership experience

• Significant personal experience in patent litigation matters with an understanding of how patents are asserted and litigated, including personal experience drafting claim charts

• Highly effective verbal and written communications skills, including strong persuasive skills

• Location in our Santa Clara, CA headquarters

• J.D. degree and a license to practice law in California is required

Ways to stand out from the crowd:

• An intense interest in patent law, technology, our industry, and continuous learning

• An ability to work independently and proactively in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment

• Experience in a dynamic, fast-growing technology company

NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world’s most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and talented people in the world working for us. If you're creative and autonomous, we want to hear from you!

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 360,000 USD - 546,250 USD.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until February 15, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy. 

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.