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.

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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 & NLP, quantum computing
• Computer: ICT security or cryptography, network security, image processing, AR/AV, HCI, GUI, computer devices, AI applications, error detection & correction, distributed processing & CPU, software execution
• Electrical Engineering & Power Systems Electric Power Distribution & Protection (photovoltaic systems, wind turbines, hydropower plants etc, to grid/power networks) via AC and/or DC lines (including HVDC), power conversion, energy storage, wireless power transfer and battery charging technologies (e.g. EVs/HEVs charging)
• Electromechanics – electrical connectors Electrical Connectors, Electrical Connectors & Displays - coupling devices, terminals, and current collectors across automotive (including high‑voltage/EV systems), industrial, and consumer applications. Key areas include electromechanical contact design, busbar assemblies, termination technologies (crimping, IDC, welding), board‑to‑board and cable‑to‑board interconnects, electromagnetic shielding (EMI/EMC), and mechanical latching and environmental sealing.
• Video Engineering: digital video coding and compression (MPEG, HEVC, VVC, point cloud), video transmission (DVB, ISOBMFF, HbbTV), digital cameras, image sensors and camera control
• Mechanical Engineering: Tobacco processing and aerosol generation, Air Conditioning, Heating Systems, Conveyors, Furniture and Hand Tools
• Medical Device Engineering: Medical Mechanics - design, development, testing or manufacture of medical devices and surgical technologies. Minimally invasive devices: catheters, guidewires, delivery systems; 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 & Photomasks), Physical aspects of OLED displays, lighting devices and organic photovoltaic devices, Semiconductor devices and manufacturing technology
• Telecom & Wireless: Messaging, Topology, Access, Multiple Access & Transmission Lines, Network Management, PowerSaving, Sync, SatCom, Resource Allocation, Wireless & Data Networks

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