Intellectual Property Engineer (all genders)

About H2FLY

Join H2FLY, the leader in hydrogen-electric powertrain systems for aviation. Since 2015, we’ve been developing, integrating and testing hydrogen-electric powertrains and demonstrated several records including the world’s first piloted flight powered by liquid hydrogen. 
Since 2021, we’re part of Joby Aviation, the leading developer of electric air taxis. Together, we’re accelerating the path toward quiet, zero-emission flight.
As part of our team, you will work hands-on on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of aviation. By harnessing the power of fuel cell technology, our team is at the forefront of making hydrogen-electric flight a reality.
From engineers to software experts, our team spans different disciplines. We celebrate the different skills and perspectives everyone brings to the table and foster a work environment where new ideas can thrive.
Become part of the future of flight.

Responsibilities

We are looking for an Intellectual Property Engineer (all genders) who will holistically support innovations from initial idea through public funding to strategic IP protection - ensuring that H2FLY’s innovation potential is sustainably secured and scaled. Your responsibilities include:

• Actively link public funding projects with IP protection to sustainably secure H2FLY’s innovation pipeline
• Develop, implement, and continuously evolve the IP strategy in close alignment with technology, funding, and corporate strategy
• Identify, evaluate, and structure protectable innovations in collaboration with engineering, systems, and research teams
• Establish and operate a structured invention disclosure and management process
• Coordinate and support invention disclosures, ensuring high technical quality and consistency
• Manage and support IP protection processes (patents, utility models, designs) in collaboration with external patent attorneys
• Conduct and evaluate patent searches, competitive analyses, and technology landscape assessments
• Prepare and assess Freedom‑to‑Operate (FTO) analyses to support product and technology development
• Support engineering teams with IP‑compliant design (“Design for IP”) and documentation standards
• Maintain, structure, and strategically develop the IP portfolio (monitoring, evaluation, prioritization)
• Work closely with Legal, Strategy, Business Development, and Engineering on partnerships, collaborations, and technology decisions
• Raise IP awareness and advise internal teams on IP fundamentals, inventor obligations, and best practices
• Support management, investor, and partner inquiries with robust IP analyses and decision‑ready insights

Requirements

• Completed degree in engineering, natural sciences, or a comparable technical field
• Proven professional experience in intellectual property and invention management, ideally in a technology‑ or research‑driven environment (industry, startup, or research institution)
• Strong experience in identifying and assessing protectable technical innovations, including patent landscape and FTO analyses
• Solid knowledge of patent law and IP protection systems (patents, utility models, designs), ideally with an international focus
• Strong technical understanding and experience in technology‑intensive fields such as mobility, energy, hydrogen, or deep tech
• Structured, analytical, and self‑driven working style
• Strong communication and coordination skills across internal and external interfaces
• Fluent German (C1–C2) and fluent English (C1)

Nice to Have:

• Experience with publicly funded projects, FTO analyses, or employee invention law
• Contribution to IP strategy development
• Project management certifications (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2)

What we're looking for

We're looking for people who take initiative, own their work, and develop solutions together. You enjoy working hands-on, stay curious, and are ready to grow with us.

• Hands-on mentality: You turn ideas into action and aren't afraid to roll up your sleeves
• Ownership: You take responsibility for your work, embrace new challenges, and think proactively
• Team collaboration: You work well in teams, communicate clearly, and organize your work independently
• Structured thinking: You approach complex tasks methodically and focus on finding solutions
• Personal qualities: Curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to keep growing

What we offer

• Working with purpose: transforming the aviation industry
• Flexible working hours and remote work options
• 30 days paid vacation
• Continuous training on the job and individual career development opportunities
• Access to the Corporate Benefits platform
• A public transport friendly office and transportation allowance
• In-house gym and Urban Sports membership
• Childcare subsidy
• Regular team events and celebrations 
• A team that truly values diversity and achieves great things together