European Patent Examiner in Electromechanics - electrical connectors

European Patent Examiner in Electromechanics - electrical connectors

Five years, renewable (full-time)

Germany (Munich/Berlin) or the Netherlands (The Hague)

2 November 2026

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.

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

We're looking for expertise in at least one of these fields:

• Disconnectible and non-disconnectible electrical connectors, 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

• 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.

• 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…