Laser Engineer

Laser Engineer

Join to apply for the Laser Engineer role at European Patent Office

Duration of contract: Five years, renewable (full‑time)

Location: Germany (Munich, Berlin) or the Netherlands (The Hague)

About the EPO: 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

• 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

Technical areas we are recruiting for:

• Laser technology: Physicist with broad knowledge in laser technology, in particular with R&D experience.

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 and 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.

Minimum requirements

• 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 or German) and ability to understand the other two; alternatively, excellent knowledge (at least C1) of English (in such cases, willingness to learn the missing languages and 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: €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.
• 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

• 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.
• Through a talent pool, you may be contacted should a vacancy with substantially the same profile arise during a 24‑month 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 .

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.

We are currently recruiting for future opportunities starting in 2025 and building our talent pipeline for future growth.

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