Electric Motors and Control Engineer

Join to apply for the Electric Motors and Control Engineer role at European Patent Office

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 will 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

• 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.

Your profile

• Control of electric machines/motors: background as electrical engineer, expert in the field of electric machine/motor control, with broad knowledge on various types of electric machines and profound knowledge of power electronics and control of electric machines/motors.
• Solid background and relevant expertise in the specified fields, built up during studies, projects, and/or professional experience.
• Enjoy deep technical analysis, reading technical drawings and solving intellectual puzzles.
• Open to learning patent law, eager to acquire new skills and develop knowledge of technologies in different fields.
• Curious, detail-oriented, open-minded and an analytical thinker.
• Value both independent work and team collaboration.
• Comfortable making structured, evidence-based decisions.

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: 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
• (see full list of benefits)

What to expect next

• 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

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 as appropriate by technical assessments, interviews and/or a personality questionnaire.

Key information

• Job group: 4
• Grade: G7 to G10 (net monthly salary EUR 6 921 to 9 901, depending on experience and location)
• Working mode: Hybrid
• Technical interviews estimated for: October 2025 – January 2026
• Final interviews planned for: November 2025 – February 2026

Seniority level

• Associate

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Science, Research and Engineering
• Government Administration

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