The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is seeking to recruit Patent Examiners to start in September 2016.

Patent Examiners help companies to innovate and grow by granting high quality, valid patents. They scrutinise both the technical and legal aspects of a patent application, comparing the new invention against those found in patent databases, before considering whether or not to grant a patent.

Patent examining offers an unusual opportunity to combine your scientific and technical knowledge with legal skills. We are seeking people with highly developed analytical and critical skills and the communication skills necessary to express complex technical and legal arguments along with strong oral communication skills to communicate effectively with colleagues and customers. We require candidates who are self-motivated and willing to take responsibility for their own decisions.

The office deals with a wide range of subject matter, from chemical compounds to smart phones; we endeavour for each examiner to work in areas appropriate to their qualifications and interests.

Salary & Benefits

Associate Patent Examiners currently start at £26,779, which includes a £3000 recruitment and retention allowance, with benefits such as flexible working, non-competitive promotion, generous holidays and an excellent pension scheme.

Subject of Study

We welcome applications from people who have obtained or are expected to achieve at least a 2:2 degree in engineering (mechanical, electrical, chemical and electronic), chemistry, electronics, physics and computing technology; or from people who have equivalent experience in industry.