Average Patent Examiner Salary

$120,809
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$58k
MEDIAN
$121k
90%
$169k

The average salary for a Patent Examiner is $120,809 in 2025

Base Salary
$58k - $169k
Bonus
$7 - $30k
Total Pay
$58k - $177k
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What Do Patent Examiners Do?

Patent Examiner Tasks
  • Select jurors, argue motions, meet with judges, and question witnesses during the course of a trial.
  • Analyze and interpret laws, rulings, and regulations with probable case outcomes for individuals and businesses.
  • Respond to U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) actions.
  • Draft and prosecute patent application for invention.
  • Interview clients and conduct research to understand invention.
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FAQs About Patent Examiners

What is the highest pay for Patent Examiners?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Patent Examiner is $169k / year

What is the lowest pay for Patent Examiners?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Patent Examiner is $58k / year

How can Patent Examiners increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as a Patent Examiner is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Patent Examiner that oversees more junior Patent Examiners, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.