Materials Engineer

Join to apply for the Materials Engineer role at European Patent Office .

Overview

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'll assess whether inventions meet the criteria for patent protection and support innovation.

Responsibilities

• 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 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 rigor.
• Contribute to Europe's innovation ecosystem by ensuring fair and consistent application of the European Patent Convention (EPC) and related legal texts.

Qualifications

We are looking for expertise in at least one of the following fields: Laminates , Chemical recycling of polymers , and Textile engineering .

• Solid background and relevant expertise in the specified fields, built up during studies, projects, 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 to 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.

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 of English (at least C1) and willingness to learn missing languages to reach B2 within a set time frame.
• Work experience in industry would be an advantage.
• Citizenship of one of the member states of the European Patent Organisation.

Benefits

• 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.

Next Steps

We are recruiting for positions starting from 2026 and are already building a talent pool for upcoming roles. If selected to join our talent pool, you will receive priority access to future vacancies, exclusive learning offers, and regular updates.

Ready to apply? Click Apply and take the first step towards a meaningful role in which science, innovation and purpose come together.

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