Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Examine patent applications and support innovation in a diverse, inclusive environment.
- Company: Join the European Patent Office, a purpose-driven organisation committed to sustainability and excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30+ days leave, flexible work, and generous remote work policy.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Europe's innovation ecosystem while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Master's degree in technical fields and strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Join a vibrant international community with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 6100 - 8600 £ per month.
When joining the EPO, relocation to the country of one of our duty stations (Munich, The Hague, Vienna or Berlin) is required. This means you need to reside in the country of your duty station (Germany, Austria or the Netherlands). You are not required to live in the city itself.
Duration of contract: Five years, renewable (full-time)
Location: Germany (Munich/Berlin) or the Netherlands (The Hague)
At the European Patent Office (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 in doing so support innovation that improves lives, drives industries and shapes the future. We are an inclusive, purpose-driven organisation committed to sustainability, fairness and excellence – diversity is part of our DNA.
Your role and impact as a Patent Examiner includes:
- 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 your 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 European Patent Convention (EPC) and related legal texts
We're looking for expertise in these fields:
- Applied Maths, AI, and Quantum Computing
- Chemical Engineering - Lubricants/Fuels
- Computer Electric Power Distribution
- Electronics
- Life Science
- Mechanical & Automotive Engineering
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics - Sensing & Testing Technology
- Semiconductors
- Telecom & Wireless
You will thrive with us if you:
- Have a solid background and relevant expertise in the specified fields, built up during your studies, in projects, and/or as a result of professional experience
- Enjoy deep technical analysis, reading technical drawings and solving intellectual puzzles
- Are open to learning patent law, eager to acquire new skills and develop your knowledge of technologies in different fields
- Are curious, detail-oriented, open-minded and an analytical thinker
- Value both independent work and team collaboration
- Are comfortable making structured, evidence-based decisions
We provide full legal and procedural training to get you started.
Our minimum requirements for this post:
- Diploma of completed studies at master’s level covering one or more technical fields mentioned above
- Excellent knowledge (at least C1) of one of our official languages (English, French and German) and the ability to understand the other two; alternatively, excellent knowledge (at least C1) of English (in such cases, the willingness to learn the missing languages and to reach level B2 within a set time frame would be required)
- Work experience in industry would be an advantage
- Citizenship of one of the member states of the European Patent Organisation
What we offer:
- Competitive salary: €7 076 to €10 164 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: excellent 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
What to expect next:
We are recruiting for positions starting from 2026 and are already building a talent pool for upcoming roles in 2027. If selected to join our talent pool, you’ll get:
- Priority access to future vacancies
- Exclusive access to learning offers and resources to enhance your IP awareness and your readiness to become a patent examiner
- Regular updates and insights
Being a member of the talent pool gives you a chance to join our journey from the very beginning and to be fully prepared for when the next positions go live.
Process:
The successful candidate will be selected on the basis of qualifications, competencies, professional experience and language knowledge, supplemented as appropriate by technical assessments, interviews and/or a personality questionnaire. 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.
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.
Key information:
- Job group: 4
- Grade: G7 to G10 (net (basic) monthly salary for this vacancy: EUR 7 076 to 10 164, depending on experience and location)
- Working mode: Hybrid
- Technical Interviews estimated for: April – June 2026
- Final interviews planned for: May – June 2026
Engineer / Scientist / Technical Expert employer: European Patent Office
Contact Detail:
European Patent Office Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineer / Scientist / Technical Expert
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former EPO employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. Personal connections can give you insights that you won't find anywhere else.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your field's latest trends and technologies. Dive into recent patents in your area of expertise to understand what the EPO is currently focusing on. This will help you stand out as someone who's genuinely interested and knowledgeable.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Patent Examiner, you'll need to explain complex ideas clearly. Try explaining a technical concept to a friend or family member who isn't in your field. This will help you refine your ability to communicate effectively during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our Careers page for updates and resources that can help you prepare for the selection process.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineer / Scientist / Technical Expert
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight your relevant experience in applied maths, AI, or any of the other fields mentioned. We want to see how your background aligns with what we do at the EPO!
Show Your Curiosity: In your application, let us know about your eagerness to learn and explore new technologies. Mention any projects or experiences that showcase your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. We love candidates who are open-minded and ready to dive into patent law!
Language Skills Matter: Since we operate in multiple languages, make sure to highlight your language proficiency. If you're fluent in English and willing to learn French or German, mention that! It shows your commitment to fitting into our diverse environment.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our Careers page! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find more tips and insights about our recruitment process there!
How to prepare for a job interview at European Patent Office
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the technical fields mentioned in the job description. Whether it's AI, Quantum Computing, or Mechanical Engineering, be ready to discuss your expertise and how it relates to the role of a Patent Examiner.
✨Language Skills Matter
Since the EPO operates in multiple languages, ensure you're comfortable discussing technical concepts in English, French, or German. If you're not fluent in all three, show your willingness to learn the missing languages and set a plan to reach B2 level.
✨Show Your Analytical Side
Prepare to demonstrate your analytical thinking skills. You might be asked to solve a technical puzzle or analyse a patent application during the interview. Practise explaining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Cultural Fit is Key
The EPO values diversity and collaboration. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked in diverse teams or contributed to an inclusive environment. Highlight your curiosity and openness to learning, as these traits align with their organisational culture.