The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is India’s top defence R&D body, known for cutting-edge technology, innovation, and strengthening national security. This year’s recruitment drive includes roles for scientists, technicians, apprentices, and research fellows, making it a big opportunity for aspirants targeting government and engineering jobs.
Let’s get straight to the details. DRDO Recruitment 2026 covers multiple hiring drives such as CEPTAM-11, Scientist ‘B’ through GATE, Apprenticeships, and research posts like JRF and RA. As per the latest updates, CEPTAM-11 alone has 764 vacancies – 561 for Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) and 203 for Technician-A (Tech-A). Whether you’re a fresher or an experienced professional, this is a golden chance to work with one of India’s most prestigious government organisations.
So, what does the official notification include? DRDO jobs in 2026 focus heavily on technical fields like mechanical, electronics, computer science, electrical engineering, and more. Detailed notifications are available on drdo.gov.in and rac.gov.in, where you’ll find post-wise vacancies, reservation rules, and eligibility details.
For example, Scientist ‘B’ recruitment depends on GATE 2026 scores, with around 181 vacancies across disciplines such as mechanical, chemical, aeronautical, and physics. Apprenticeship programs, including the one at Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), offer 33 seats for ITI, diploma, and graduate candidates – perfect for hands-on learning.
Vacancies here are more than just numbers. Under CEPTAM-11, STA-B posts span subjects like agriculture, automobile engineering, botany, chemical engineering, and library science. Tech-A roles are available in trades such as carpenter, book binder, CNC operator, and welder. Research-focused roles include 28 JRF posts at DRDE and RA positions at DYSL-QT. If research and innovation excite you, these roles are worth exploring.
Eligibility is simple but important. Candidates must meet the required educational qualifications, age limits, and experience criteria depending on the post. The application process is fully online and hassle-free through the official portals.
This guide will walk you through everything about DRDO Recruitment 2026 – application steps, eligibility, exam pattern, salary, and preparation tips. If you’re serious about defence jobs, stay tuned. This could be your path into DRDO.
DRDO Recruitment 2026 Out – Freshers & Experienced Candidates Can Apply Now
Great news! DRDO Recruitment 2026 is officially out, and it brings exciting opportunities for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals. DRDO jobs are known for stability, prestige, and meaningful work, and this year’s recruitment drive lives up to that reputation.
For freshers, the attraction is massive. Imagine starting your career by working on missile systems, radar technology, or AI-based defence projects. The CEPTAM-11 notification, released in December 2025, is ideal for entry-level candidates. Diploma and B.Sc. graduates can apply for STA-B, while ITI pass-outs can target Tech-A posts. No experience? That’s perfectly fine – many roles are designed for beginners.
Experienced candidates also have plenty to look forward to. DRDO highly values practical knowledge, especially in engineering and research roles. Candidates with strong GATE scores and relevant experience can apply for Scientist ‘B’ posts in specialised laboratories. Apprenticeship programs at labs like SSPL and DGRE offer structured training that may lead to long-term opportunities. Age relaxations are also available for experienced professionals.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the latest posts:
- Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B): 561 vacancies in civil, electrical, electronics, computer science, and more
- Technician-A (Tech-A): 203 vacancies in trades like fitter, electrician, draughtsman, machinist
- Scientist ‘B’: Around 181 posts through GATE 2026
- Apprentices: 33 at SSPL (20 ITI, 8 Diploma, 5 Graduate), plus other labs
- JRF & RA: 28 JRF posts at DRDE and 1 RA post at DYSL-QT
These are the key highlights, but DRDO may release more updates. Keep checking the official website regularly. For freshers, it’s a chance to learn from the best; for experienced candidates, it’s a chance to grow in a meaningful DRDO career.
DRDO Recruitment 2026 Apply Online: Salary, Selection Process & Important Dates
Planning to apply? Here’s everything you need to know about salary, selection process, and key dates for DRDO Recruitment 2026.
How to Apply Online:
Applications are accepted through drdo.gov.in or rac.gov.in, depending on the post.
- CEPTAM-11: Apply from December 11, 2025 to January 11, 2026
- Scientist ‘B’: Application opens after GATE 2026 results (GATE exam in Feb 2026)
- SSPL Apprentices: Apply between January 1 and January 15, 2026
Salary Details:
- STA-B: Pay Level 6 – ₹35,400 to ₹1,12,400
- Tech-A: Pay Level 2 – ₹19,900 to ₹63,200
- Scientist ‘B’: Pay Level 10 – starting at ₹56,100 + allowances
- Apprentices: ₹8,000–9,000 (ITI), ₹12,000 (Diploma), ₹13,000 (Graduate)
- JRF: Around ₹37,000 + HRA
Selection Process:
- CEPTAM-11: Tier 1 CBT + Tier 2 Skill/Trade Test (no negative marking)
- Scientist ‘B’: GATE shortlisting → Descriptive exam → Interview
- Apprentices/JRF: Merit-based, sometimes interview or walk-in
These timelines and benefits make DRDO Recruitment 2026 a strong choice for serious aspirants.
DRDO Scientist, Technician & Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – Full Details
Let’s break down the main roles offered under DRDO Recruitment 2026.
Scientist ‘B’:
Recruited via GATE 2026 in disciplines like mechanical, electronics, computer science, physics, chemistry, mathematics, psychology, and more. Total vacancies are around 181. Selection includes GATE-based shortlisting, a descriptive test, and an interview.
Technician & STA-B:
Under CEPTAM-11, Tech-A requires ITI after 10th, while STA-B needs a diploma or B.Sc. These roles support lab operations and technical work.
Apprentices:
Ideal for beginners. SSPL alone offers 33 apprenticeship seats across ITI, diploma, and graduate levels. Training lasts one year with a monthly stipend.
Complete details are available in official notifications on DRDO’s website.
DRDO Recruitment 2026 Eligibility Criteria Explained Simply
Here’s eligibility explained in easy language:
- Age Limit: Usually 18–28 years (relaxations for SC/ST, OBC, PwD, ex-servicemen)
- Education:
- Tech-A: 10th + ITI
- STA-B: Diploma or B.Sc.
- Scientist ‘B’: BE/B.Tech or MSc + GATE
- Apprentices: ITI/Diploma/Degree
- JRF: MSc + NET/GATE
- Nationality: Indian only
Always double-check official notifications before applying.
DRDO Recruitment 2026 Syllabus & Exam Pattern – Prepare Smart
CEPTAM-11 Exam Pattern:
- Tier 1: 150 MCQs, 2 hours, no negative marking
- Sections: Quant, Reasoning, GA, English, Subject/Trade
- Tier 2: Skill/Trade Test (qualifying)
Scientist ‘B’: GATE syllabus + descriptive exam + interview
Smart preparation, mock tests, and regular practice are key to cracking DRDO exams.
How to Apply for DRDO Recruitment 2026 – Step-by-Step
- Visit drdo.gov.in / rac.gov.in
- Register with email & mobile
- Fill application form
- Upload documents
- Pay fee (if applicable)
- Submit and download confirmation
Simple steps, but accuracy is crucial.
Why DRDO Recruitment 2026 Is a Golden Opportunity
DRDO Recruitment 2026 isn’t just about a job – it’s about working for the nation. With job security, good pay, growth opportunities, and the pride of contributing to India’s defence, DRDO stands out among government jobs.
If you’re aiming for a stable, respected, and impactful career, DRDO 2026 could be your breakthrough. Don’t let this opportunity slip away!
FAQs
Q1: What is DRDO Recruitment 2026?
A1: It’s DRDO’s annual hiring drive for scientists, technicians, apprentices, and research staff.
Q2: Who can apply?
A2: Indian citizens who meet age and educational criteria, from ITI to postgraduate level.
Q3: What is the age limit?
A3: Generally 18–28 years, with category-wise relaxations.
Q4: How to apply?
A4: Online through Defence Research and Development Organisation or RAC, DRDO
Q5: Is there an application fee?
A5: Yes, ₹100 for General/OBC males; others are exempt.
Q6: What are the typical educational qualifications?
A6: Depends on post: ITI for Tech-A, diploma/B.Sc. for STA-B, degree + GATE for scientists.
Conclusion
DRDO Recruitment 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest and most attractive government job drives in the defence sector. With hundreds of vacancies across Scientist, Technical Assistant, Technician, Apprentice, JRF, and RA posts, it offers something for everyone—from freshers taking their first career step to experienced professionals looking for stability and growth.
