European Patent Examiner in Video Engineering
EPO
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
European Patent Office (EPO) seeks a Patent Examiner in Video Engineering to assess patent applications in English, French or German, focusing on video coding, transmission and image sensors. The role blends deep technical analysis with legal procedures and collaborative work across international teams.
The position is a five-year, full-time contract with hybrid working options, relocation to Germany or the Netherlands, and a structured two-year examiner development programme.
Qualifications
- Master’s level studies in one or more technical fields mentioned.
- Excellent knowledge (C1) of English, French or German and ability to understand the other two.
- Citizenship of an EPC member state and willingness to relocate may be required.
Responsibilities
- examine patent applications – including technical docs and drawings – in English, French or German
- analyse new inventions to evaluate novelty and inventive step
- conduct in-depth research using digital search tools and patent sources to identify relevant prior art
- apply legal and procedural frameworks to make high-quality patent grant decisions
- communicate findings clearly with applicants and other parties
- collaborate with international colleagues in an inclusive environment
- maintain high-quality standards with scientific rigour
- contribute to Europe’s innovation ecosystem through EPC compliance
Skills
Education
Job description
Duration of contract: Five years, renewable (full-time)
Location: Germany (Munich/Berlin) or the Netherlands (The Hague)
Application deadline: 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:
- digital video coding and compression (MPEG, HEVC, VVC, point cloud)
- video transmission (DVB, ISOBMFF, HbbTV)
- digital cameras, image sensors and camera control
- 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 the European Patent Organisation
- competitive salary: €7 076 to €10 164 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
- 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
- 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)
We are recruiting for positions starting from 2027 and are already building a talent pool for upcoming roles in 2028. If selected to join our talent pool, you'll get:
- 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
Being a member of the talent pool gives you a chance to join our journey from the very beginning and to be fully prepared for when the next positions go live.
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.
A talent pool (reserve list) will be constituted should more candidates than required at this time be considered suitable following the selection procedure. Such talent pools are valid for a period of 24 months and talent pool candidates may be contacted should a vacancy with substantially the same profile arise during that period.
In line with the EPO's values and the standards of honesty and integrity expected of its employees, candidates are expected to uphold these same principles throughout the selection process.
We recognise that AI tools may be used to support the preparation of job applications. Candidates nevertheless remain responsible for the content of their application and for the accuracy of the information submitted – and we encourage candidates to ensure that their job application remains an authentic reflection of their own qualifications, skills and experience.
During interviews and assessments, candidates are expected to rely on their own knowledge, experience and judgement, without the use of AI tools or other forms of real-time assistance, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Job group: 4
Grade: G7 to G10 (net (basic) monthly salary* for this vacancy: EUR 7 076 to 10 164, depending on experience and location)
Career path: Technical
Working mode: Hybrid
Pre-selection outcome communicated by: end December 2026
Technical Interviews estimated for: October 2026 – January 2027
Final interviews planned for: November 2026 – February 2027
*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.
**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.
We welcome all applications for vacant positions. We consider each on its professional merits – regardless of your nationality, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, parental responsibilities, age, religion or belief.
Work as a patent examiner
- See the latest inventions and enable innovation
- Work with inspiring people from a variety of cultures
- Develop yourself and take on an intellectual challenge
- A competitive salary
- Family-friendly benefits
- A good work-life balance
- Generous flexibility options
- Relocation benefits and various allowances
- Contributory medical insurance and pension schemes
- 30 days' leave per year
- Free gym access
- Social activities and clubs
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.
We will empower and motivate our staff to set worldwide standards in intellectual property. Our Office will be effective and transparent, respond to the needs of our users and be agile in managing the changing demands and conditions of a dynamic global patent system. Our work will contribute to a safer, smarter and more sustainable world.
All our relationships within our Office and with partners around the world will prosper through trust, fairness, mutual respect, adaptability, collaboration and a commitment to excellence.
We believe that diversity is fundamental to our success. Our inclusive work environment respects, values and celebrates our individual differences. We want you to be yourself at work. Join us on this exciting journey to a more digital, collaborative and sustainable organisation.
EPO website
jobinfo@epo.org
© 2018-2025 European Patent Organisation
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