European Patent Examiner in Electrical Engineering (Electric Power Distribution & Protection)
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At the European Patent Office (EPO), we explore breakthrough technologies before they reach the public. As a European Patent Examiner in Electrical Engineering (Electric Power Distribution & Protection), 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.
- Duration of contract: Five years, renewable (full-time)
- Location: Germany (Munich/Berlin) or the Netherlands (The Hague)
- Working mode: Hybrid. The position will require relocation to the country of one of the following EPO sites: Germany (Munich/Berlin) or The Netherlands (The Hague). The final location will be discussed later and depends also on team-specific needs.
- Positions starting from 2027; a talent pool is being built for upcoming roles in 2028.
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 at least one of these fields:
- Electric Power Distribution & Protection: background as electrical engineer or physicist with similar expertise, preferably with background in electric power distribution (e.g. from renewable energy sources, such as 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) and preferably Emergency Protective Circuit Arrangements.
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 genuinely curious about technology and enjoy continuously learning about new scientific developments, emerging technologies and patent law
- are analytical, detail-oriented and open-minded
- are confident using digital technologies and AI-supported tools to analyse information while applying own critical thinking
- value both independent work and team collaboration
- are comfortable making structured, evidence-based decisions
No prior IP (intellectual property) experience? No problem.
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). Grade: G7 to G10 (net (basic) monthly salary for this vacancy: EUR 7 076 to 10 164, depending on experience and location). 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.
- 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
- facilities: on-site gym, health services, staff clubs and more (depending on location)
- top locations: high quality of life and a thriving international community
Why join us?
- See the latest inventions and enable innovation
- Work with inspiring people from a variety of cultures
- Develop yourself and take on an intellectual challenge
Who we are
We are the patent office for Europe. We are proud to deliver high-quality patents and efficient services that foster innovation, competitiveness and economic growth.
The European Patent Office (EPO) is the second-largest European organisation, employing 7 000 staff from over 30 countries.
The EPO is the executive arm of the European Patent Organisation. It is headquartered in Munich, but also has a branch in The Hague, offices in Berlin and Vienna, and a liaison office in Brussels.
The EPO strives to support innovation and…
The European Patent Office (EPO) is the second-largest European organisation, employing 7 000 staff from over 30 countries.
The EPO is the executive arm of the European Patent Organisation. It is headquartered in Munich, but also has a branch in The Hague, offices in Berlin and Vienna, and a liaison office in Brussels.
The EPO strives to support innovation and promote a knowledge-based society in Europe:
- Patent protection enables inventors and companies to be rewarded for their innovation.
- The EPO has built up the world's largest databases of technical information, which it makes available to the public free of charge.
- It also offers a complete range of training on patenting and IP issues
The EPO's mission is to secure the highest quality standards in patenting:
- The European Patent Convention (EPC) provides the legal backbone for its patenting practice.
- The EPO offers a uniform application procedure leading to patent protection in up to 40 European countries.
- Processes at the EPO are fair, transparent and closely monitored for quality at all times.
As an employer, the EPO provides a distinctly multinational work environment in an intellectually stimulating atmosphere:
- We focus on building long-term relationships with our employees.
- We empower our staff to take responsibility and make the right decisions.
Based on this foundation of mutual trust and respect, we at the EPO are ready to meet the future challenges in European intellectual property.