Engineer / Scientist / Technical or Mechanical Expert

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. Bewerben Sie sich (indem Sie auf die entsprechende Schaltfläche klicken), nachdem Sie alle Informationen zu dieser Stelle durchgelesen haben. _____________________________________________________________________________ Duration of contract: Five years, renewable (full-time) Location: Hybrid based in 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. Whether you come from research, academia or industry, if you're curious, open to learning and looking for 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 using digital search tools, scientific databases and patent information sources 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 Your profile We're looking for expertise in these fields: Applied Maths, AI, and Quantum Computing : artificial intelligence/machine learning, applied math Drug delivery: microneedles, injectors and related devices; Surgical devices: surgical instruments, powered and robotic surgical systems; Spinal implants: pedicle screws, rods, intervertebral cages, disc prostheses Semiconductors : Semiconductor manufacturing technology, Lithography Technologies, Magnetic Applications and Electromagnetic Components, Lithography Chemistry (Photoresists 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 examiner training: a comprehensive two-year development programme covering all aspects of patent search and examination, starting with a six-week Academy programme on‑site and delivered in English 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 2027 and are already building a talent pool for upcoming roles in 2028. 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. In line with the EPO's values and the standards of honesty and integrity expected of its employees, candidates are expected to uphold these same principles throughout the selection process. We recognise that AI tools may be used to support the preparation of job applications. Candidates nevertheless remain responsible for the content of their application and for the accuracy of the information submitted – and we encourage candidates to ensure that their job application remains an authentic reflection of their own qualifications, skills and experience. During interviews and assessments, candidates are expected to rely on their own knowledge, experience and judgement, without the use of AI tools or other forms of real‑time assistance, unless explicitly stated otherwise. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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 ** Pre-selection outcome communicated by: end December 2026 Technical Interviews estimated for: October – January 2027 Final interviews planned for: November – February 2027 *After deduction of EPO-internal tax (no other national income tax applies) and before deduction of staff contributions to the social security and pension schemes. **The position will require relocation to the country of one of the following EPO sites: Germany (duty station: Munich/Berlin) or The Netherlands (duty station: The Hague). The final location will be discussed later and depends also on team‑specific needs. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- For LinkedIn posting on sites outside of TH/MUC/BER we add this: When joining the EPO, relocation to the country of one of our duty stations (Munich, Berlin, The Hague or Vienna) is required. This means you will need to reside in the country of your duty station (Germany, Austria or the Netherlands). xhdzyng Please note that your place of residence will need to be either at your place of employment or within a reasonable commuting distance. #J-18808-Ljbffr