Patent Engineer

Company Description AWA is a leading international intellectual property firm that helps clients turn ideas and innovations into business value, regardless of size or industry. With more than 400 employees across 20 offices in Belgium, China, Denmark, Hong Kong, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland, AWA offers a global yet collaborative working environment. The firm provides full-service support in prosecution, dispute litigation, aftermarket services, legal advice, strategy, and commercialization. AWA’s IP professionals are specialists in patents, trademarks, designs, copyright, and domain names, working across diverse technologies and sectors. Founded in 1897 by Swedish engineer Anders Wilhelm Anderson, AWA combines a long heritage with a forward-looking approach to emerging businesses and innovation.

Role Description This full-time Patent Engineer role is based in Liège and follows a hybrid work model, combining on-site collaboration with the option to work from home for part of the time. The Patent Engineer will handle the preparation and technical drafting of patent applications, including claims and descriptions, for a range of technologies. Day-to-day responsibilities include analyzing inventions, conducting prior art searches, and assessing patentability and freedom-to-operate. The role involves close interaction with clients and R&D teams to understand technical developments, translate them into strong IP protection, and support IP strategy. The Patent Engineer will also assist with responses to office actions, contribute to IP portfolio management, and collaborate with colleagues across AWA’s offices on cross-border matters.

Qualifications

• Strong capability in Patent Preparation and the technical drafting of patent applications.
• Solid Analytical Skills to evaluate inventions, prior art, and competitive IP landscapes.
• Knowledge of Patent Law and Intellectual Property principles, including patents, trademarks, and related rights.
• Experience working with Research and Development (R&D) teams or in a technical R&D environment.
• Degree in engineering, mechanics, physics, or computer science technical field.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; additional European languages are an advantage.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines independently.
• Interest in continuous learning in IP law, technology trends, and client industries.
• Prior experience in a patent firm, in-house IP department, or related technical role is beneficial but not mandatory.