Overview
Engineers / Scientists / Tech Specialists — European Patent Office (EPO).
Duration of contract: Five years, renewable (full-time). Location: Germany (Munich, Berlin) or the Netherlands (The Hague).
At the EPO, we explore breakthrough technologies before they reach the public. As a patent examiner, you'll assess whether inventions meet the criteria for patent protection and support innovation that improves lives, drives industries and shapes the future.
We are an inclusive, purpose-driven organisation committed to sustainability, fairness and excellence. If you're curious, open to learning and seeking a meaningful intellectual challenge, you’ll find your place at the EPO.
Your role and impact
As a Patent Examiner, you will:
* examine patent applications – including technical documentation and drawings – in one of our official languages (English, French or German).
* analyse new inventions to evaluate their novelty and inventive step.
* conduct in-depth research across scientific and technical fields to identify the most relevant prior art.
* apply legal and procedural frameworks to make clear, high-quality decisions on whether a patent should be granted.
* communicate findings clearly and constructively with applicants and other parties.
* collaborate with international colleagues in a diverse and inclusive environment.
* maintain high quality standards with strong attention to detail and scientific rigour.
* contribute to Europe\'s innovation ecosystem by ensuring fair and consistent application of the EPC and related legal texts.
Your profile
The technical areas that we are currently recruiting for:
* Agri-Tech & Smart Systems: mechanical engineering with expertise in agricultural machinery or systems (e.g. sprayers, harvesters, ploughs, harrows, tillers, milking machines, feeding systems, horticulture).
* Batteries & Fuel Cells: electrochemistry, material development, production processes, pack / stack / cell design, and software / simulation / control systems.
* Biotechnology: DNA analysis, protein and peptide analysis, genomic to proteomics and protein engineering, non-coding RNA biotechnology, viruses, viral vectors and/or gene therapy, plant and animal genetic engineering, medicinal chemistry or biochemistry with focus on conjugates, immunology.
* Computer: applied, emerging or business technologies (memory management, e-commerce, fintech, payments).
* Electromechanical Devices & Sensors: position sensors and encoders, speed measurement, accelerometers, optical fibre sensors; cooling of electronics; electromagnetic shielding; constructional details of electronic devices.
* Electric Motors and Control: control of electric machines/motors; electrical engineering background with knowledge of power electronics and motor control.
* Image, Audio & Video: display processing, digital video coding, cameras, image sensors, computer vision and pattern recognition.
* Laboratory Equipment: Microfluidics, Lab-on-a-Chip, dispensing technologies, bio-analytics.
* Materials Science: laminates, recycling of polymers and textile engineering.
* Semiconductors: lithography, laser technology, memory devices, semiconductor devices and manufacturing, packaging.
* Steel Metallurgy: heat treatments of ferrous metals or alloys.
* Telecom & Wireless: data networks, power saving in wireless systems, wireless networks.
You will thrive with us if you:
* have a solid background and relevant expertise in the specified fields, built up during studies, projects or professional experience.
* enjoy deep technical analysis, reading technical drawings and solving intellectual puzzles.
* are open to learning patent law and eager to acquire new skills across technologies.
* are curious, detail-oriented, open-minded and an analytical thinker.
* value independent work and team collaboration.
* are comfortable making structured, evidence-based decisions.
We provide full legal and procedural training to get you started.
Minimum requirements
* Diploma of completed studies at master\'s level covering one or more technical fields mentioned above.
* Excellent knowledge (at least C1) of one official language (English, French or German) and the ability to understand the other two; or excellent knowledge (C1) of English with willingness to learn the others and reach level B2 within a set time frame.
* Work experience in industry is an advantage.
* Citizenship of one of the member states of the European Patent Organisation.
What we offer
* competitive salary: €6 921 to €9 901 net/month (depending on location and experience).
* 30+ days of annual leave + flexible working arrangements.
* generous remote work policy: work from anywhere in the country of employment; up to 60 days from abroad (EPC states).
* family-friendly policies: childcare, education and relocation support.
* pension and insurance: social security coverage.
* training and development: legal training, technical upskilling and mobility opportunities.
* inclusive culture: 35+ nationalities, supportive networks and a strong DEI commitment.
* facilities: on-site gym, health services, staff clubs and more (depending on location).
* top locations: high quality of life and a thriving international community.
* (see full list of benefits).
What to expect next
We are recruiting for positions starting from 2026 and are building a talent pool for upcoming roles. If selected to join our talent pool, you\'ll receive:
* priority access to future vacancies.
* exclusive access to learning offers and resources to enhance IP awareness and readiness to become a patent examiner.
* regular updates and insights.
This is your chance to join our journey from the very beginning and to be fully prepared for when the next positions go live.
Ready to apply?
Click Apply and take the first step towards a meaningful role in which science, innovation and purpose come together.
For tips on how to prepare your application, and to read more about our recruitment process, visit our Careers page.
Process
Visit our Jobs & careers webpage to learn how best to prepare your application and read more about our recruitment process.
The successful candidate will be selected on the basis of qualifications, competencies, professional experience and language knowledge, supplemented by technical assessments, interviews and/or a personality questionnaire.
We are currently recruiting for future opportunities starting in 2025 and building our talent pipeline for future growth. Apply now to secure your place on our team and be part of our journey from the very beginning.
A talent pool (reserve list) will be constituted should more candidates than required at this time be considered suitable following the selection procedure. Such talent pools are valid for a period of 24 months and talent pool candidates may be contacted should a vacancy with substantially the same profile arise during that period.
#J-18808-Ljbffr