Job Description

Young Professionals Programme in Information Technology

 

Applications deadline: 09.03.2026

 

 

Are you a recent graduate interested in the world of intellectual property and looking for your first employment experience?
The European Patent Office (EPO) invites applications for the Young Professionals Programme, starting in September 2026. Young Professionals are recruited across a wide range of technical and corporate areas and will work at one of the EPO’s sites in Munich, The Hague, Vienna, Berlin or Brussels.


The programme is designed to attract and develop high-potential graduates who are motivated to grow, take on responsibility and contribute in a complex, international environment. It offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, apply academic knowledge in a professional setting, and develop skills that are relevant across disciplines.
Depending on the assignment, Young Professionals contribute to meaningful tasks and deepen their understanding of how intellectual property is applied in practice within an international organisation.

 

 

Opportunities in the area of Information Technology 

 

Depending on the department, your role may involve, for example: 

  • Supporting business analysis and process improvement activities, including analysing current processes, designing future-state solutions, gathering requirements and preparing related documentation 
  • Contributing to digital transformation and change initiatives, including collaboration with product, business and development teams to support the delivery of IT solutions aligned with organisational priorities 
  • Supporting data intake, data quality and data transition activities, including monitoring data flows, analysing issues, supporting system migrations and maintaining technical and process documentation 
  • Contributing to user experience, usability and accessibility initiatives, including supporting design systems, improving user journeys, developing onboarding materials and promoting adoption of digital tools 
  • Assisting with IT project and portfolio coordination, including maintaining overviews of initiatives, preparing reporting and supporting governance and decision-making processes 
  • Supporting IT service operations and technical environments, including documentation, coordination with stakeholders, and support for digital platforms, collaboration tools, and event or examination systems 
  • Contributing to data security, confidentiality and compliance-related activities, including supporting secure digital processes, reporting and audit-ready documentation 

 

List of departments offering a seat for a Young Professional

Check this list including department descriptions and example projects. You may express a preference for one of the listed departments in your application. 

 

 

With us you will: 

 

  • Enjoy a year-long paid programme in a field of interest, with the possibility to apply for up to two additional years on the programme 
  • Benefit from a tailored training and development programme, covering IP-specific topics, language learning and career guidance 
  • Learn on the job, supported by a tutor and experienced colleagues 
  • Work with colleagues from a wide variety of cultural and professional backgrounds 
  • Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and innovative environment 
  • Feel empowered to grow in your role and take on responsibilities 
  • Be among the first to see the latest inventions 

 

 

Programme requirements 

 

You should apply if you meet the following criteria: 

  • You come from one of the listed universities 
  • You are a national of one of the EPO’s member states 
  • You hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent 
  • You have excellent knowledge of one of the EPO’s official languages (English, French or German) 

 

We are looking for talented graduates with the potential to grow, strong analytical thinking, and the ability to contribute effectively in a collaborative working environment.

 

Learn more about the programme

 

Application process 

 

  • Application deadline: 09 March 2026 
  • Online interviews: April and May 2026 
  • Results announced: June 2026 
  • Programme start date: 15 September 2026 

 

 

Please note that you may only apply for one programme vacancy pool (e.g. Science and Engineering, Law, Economics and Finance) and should indicate your preferred department within that area. This does not limit consideration for other departments or areas if a suitable match is identified. 

 

 

Key information 

 

  • Net (basic) monthly salary: approx. EUR 2 300 
  • Duration of appointment: one year (full-time) 
  • Location: Office-wide (Munich, The Hague, Vienna, Berlin, Brussels) 

 

* Average across sites; net amount after deduction of EPO-internal tax and staff contributions to social security and pension schemes. 

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.
Information at a Glance
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Six reasons to join us
✓ Experience unique on-the-job learning
✓ Benefit from a targeted personal development plan
✓ Enjoy a tailored employment package
✓ Get mentoring and guidance
✓ Join a great multicultural community
✓ Work on global pressing challenges

Who we are
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.

Our vision
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.

Our values
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.

Our work environment
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.

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