Associate Patent Examiner

We are recruiting around 50 associate patent examiners across all areas of technology including chemistry, biotechnology, engineering, computer science, physics and mathematics. We are particularly interested in engineers with experience in telecommunications engineering, electrical and electronic engineering and computer systems engineering.

Patent examiners require at least a 2:2 degree or equivalent in a relevant science, engineering, computer science or mathematics subject, or relevant industrial experience at that level. GCSE/O-level grade C or above in Mathematics and English is also required.

Main Duties

Patent examining offers an unusual opportunity to combine scientific and technical expertise with legal skills. Successful candidates will receive comprehensive structured training and mentoring in the legal skills and knowledge required, as well as in the professional searching skills necessary for carrying out the patent examiner role. Patent examiners combine these legal skills and searching skills with their well-developed analytical ability and their technical knowledge to determine if the invention is new and inventive and whether the application satisfies other legal requirements.

Start dates & Salary

Available start dates are 1 April 2019 and 2 September 2019. You are asked to specify your preferred start date in your application.

A £3,030 allowance is included in the starting salary package which overall currently starts at £28,180. In addition a further £4,040 allowance is available for posts in telecommunications, bringing the starting salary package for these posts to £32,220.

Application Process

In order to apply you will need to complete the form at the following link and attach it to your online application. Your application may not be considered if this form is omitted.

When completing your application form please ensure that your examples cover the bullet points under each of the competency headings listed below:

Professional skills

• Degree-level knowledge or equivalent experience in a relevant technical field and an ability to apply that knowledge in practical situations. You will need to draw on any relevant research projects and/or technical industrial experience in order to demonstrate this competency.

Making effective decisions

• Well developed analytical skills to analyse, understand and evaluate technically complex scientific and/or engineering information and an ability to reach conclusions quickly, accurately and decisively.

Leading and communicating

• Strong ability to express ideas effectively, both orally and in writing, and with sensitivity and respect for others.