Searcher (Designs and Trademarks)
さーちゃー（いしょう・しょうひょう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist who searches and analyzes prior registration information for designs and trademarks from various databases, and performs risk assessments for new applications and rights enforcement.
Description
A Searcher (Designs and Trademarks) is a job that comprehensively searches and analyzes prior information on design registrations and trademark registrations using public and private databases such as J-PlatPat. They design appropriate search queries using IPC, international trademark classifications, and domestic classifications, and evaluate subtle design differences and trademark similarities. The investigation results are compiled into reports provided to patent attorneys and clients, serving as foundational materials for application strategies and examination responses. Knowledge of domestic and international literature search/reading, legal systems, and examination standards is also required.
Future Outlook
While efficiency will improve with the普及 of AI-powered automatic search and analysis tools, demand for highly skilled personnel who perform specialized search design and detailed evaluations is expected to remain. As the importance of international IP strategies increases, global search capabilities will be even more in demand.
Personality Traits
Cautious / Curious or inquisitive / Meticulous / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Corporate IP Department Employment / Dispatched Contract Employee / Flexitime / Patent Office Employment / Remote
Career Path
Junior Searcher (Assistant) → Searcher → Chief Searcher → IP Analyst → Patent Department Manager
Required Skills
IPC Classification Search Query Creation / Intellectual Property Law (Basics) / Prior Art Search Database Operation / Report Creation / Search Result Analysis and Evaluation
Recommended Skills
English (Technical Literature Reading) / Presentation Skills / Prior Art Search / Script Automation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | To precisely analyze and extract relevant information from vast amounts of registration data. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Accuracy is required to not miss subtle design differences or textual variations. |
| Problem Solving | Problem-solving skills are required for adjusting search conditions and handling unknown classifications. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly desk work involving long hours of sitting, so physical demands are low. |
Related Qualifications
- Intellectual Property Management Skills Test Level 2
Aliases
- Design Searcher
- IP Searcher
- Trademark Searcher
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- IP Analyst
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