DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online 764 Senior Technical Assistant B and Technician A Posts

DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 764 Senior Technical Assistant B and Technician A Posts

The highly anticipated recruitment notification for the Center for Personnel Talent Management (CEPTAM) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been officially released. The DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 drive seeks to fill 764 posts for the positions of Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) and Technician-A (Tech-A). This presents a significant opportunity for individuals with technical qualifications, including diplomas and ITI certificates, to join one of India's leading defense research establishments.

The application process for this recruitment cycle commenced on 11 December 2025, and eligible candidates are advised to apply online before the deadline, which is set for 10 January 2026. The selection process for these technical roles typically involves a Computer Based Test (CBT) followed by a skill test or trade test, designed to assess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

This article provides comprehensive details regarding the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Notification 2026, covering key information such as eligibility criteria, a detailed vacancy breakdown, the selection procedure, application steps, important dates, and links. Candidates preparing for technical government jobs should review these details carefully to understand the requirements and prepare effectively for the upcoming examination.

Key Details of DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026

The recruitment drive is organized by DRDO CEPTAM, a key agency responsible for managing human resources and conducting recruitment for various technical positions within DRDO labs and establishments across India. The current notification, designated as CEPTAM-11, aims to induct skilled technical personnel to support DRDO's research and development activities.

The total number of vacancies announced is 764 posts, distributed across the Senior Technical Assistant-B and Technician-A categories. These positions are critical for the functioning of DRDO, offering an opportunity to work on cutting-edge defense technologies and contribute directly to national security. The recruitment process is entirely online, starting from the application submission to the payment of fees.

Candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before applying. The official notification, available on the DRDO website, provides specific details regarding educational qualifications, age limits, and technical trade specializations required for each position. It is crucial for applicants to adhere strictly to the guidelines provided in the notification to avoid disqualification during the document verification stage.

DRDO CEPTAM 11 Vacancy Details: Breakdown by Post and Discipline

The 764 vacancies are allocated to two primary positions: Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) and Technician-A (Tech-A). The distribution between these two posts typically varies based on the operational requirements of DRDO labs. While a specific trade-wise breakdown for the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 is detailed in the official notification, here is a general overview of the expected distribution and roles:

Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) Posts:

STA-B positions generally require a higher level of technical expertise, typically a bachelor's degree in science or a three-year diploma in engineering or technology. The job profile involves assisting scientists and engineers in advanced research projects, performing complex technical tasks, and supervising junior technical staff. The specific disciplines for STA-B often include:

• Electronics and Instrumentation
• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Automobile Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Physics/Chemistry/Mathematics

It is anticipated that a majority of the 764 posts will be dedicated to the STA-B category, reflecting the need for graduates and diploma holders in various technical fields.

Technician-A (Tech-A) Posts:

Technician-A positions are primarily focused on hands-on technical support, maintenance, and operation of machinery and equipment within DRDO facilities. These roles typically require candidates to have passed Class 10 (Matriculation) along with an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) certificate in a relevant trade. The specific trades for Tech-A include:

• Fitter
• Electrician
• Machinist
• Welder
• Turner
• Electronics Mechanic
• Diesel Mechanic
• Computer Operator and Programming Assistant (COPA)

Candidates applying for the Technician-A posts must ensure their ITI certificate corresponds exactly to the trades mentioned in the official notification. The recruitment aims to select skilled individuals who can immediately contribute to the practical aspects of DRDO's work.

Eligibility Criteria: Educational Qualifications and Age Limit

Meeting the eligibility criteria is non-negotiable for applicants. The requirements for DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 vary significantly between the Senior Technical Assistant-B and Technician-A posts. Candidates must carefully review the requirements for the post they intend to apply for before filling out the application form.

Educational Qualifications:

1. Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B):

• Essential Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in Science (B.Sc.) or a Diploma in Engineering/Technology in the relevant discipline. The degree or diploma must be obtained from a recognized university or institute.
• Discipline Specificity: The qualification must be in the specific discipline corresponding to the post applied for. For example, a candidate applying for the STA-B post in Mechanical Engineering must hold a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.
• Final Year Students: Candidates who are in their final year of graduation or diploma are generally not eligible to apply unless they can produce their final passing certificate by the specified cut-off date mentioned in the notification.

2. Technician-A (Tech-A):

• Essential Qualification: Candidates must have successfully completed Class 10 (Matriculation) from a recognized board.
• ITI Certificate: In addition to Class 10, candidates must possess a valid Industrial Training Institute (ITI) certificate in the specific trade. The ITI certificate must be from a recognized institute approved by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) or State Council for Vocational Training (SCVT).
• Apprenticeship: In some cases, candidates with a relevant apprenticeship certificate may also be considered in lieu of an ITI certificate, subject to specific guidelines in the notification.

Age Limit:

The standard age limit for both Senior Technical Assistant-B and Technician-A posts typically ranges between 18 and 28 years as on the closing date of application (10 January 2026). However, specific age relaxation provisions apply to candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government rules:

• SC/ST Candidates: Age relaxation of 5 years.
• OBC Candidates: Age relaxation of 3 years.
• PwBD Candidates: Age relaxation of 10 years.
• Ex-Servicemen: Age relaxation as per government regulations.

Candidates must ensure they fall within the specified age range, including applicable relaxation, to be considered eligible for the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026.

Selection Process: Tier-I CBT and Tier-II Trade/Skill Test

The selection process for the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 typically consists of two distinct stages: Tier-I and Tier-II. The primary objective of the Tier-I examination is to shortlist candidates based on merit, while Tier-II assesses practical and functional skills relevant to the job profile. The details for each stage are provided below:

Tier-I: Computer Based Test (CBT)

Tier-I is a crucial screening examination for both Senior Technical Assistant-B and Technician-A posts. The test is generally objective-type with multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The structure and content of the CBT vary slightly between the two positions:

For STA-B: The question paper usually consists of two sections:

1. Section A (General Aptitude): This section tests general reasoning ability, quantitative aptitude, general awareness, English language, and general science.
2. Section B (Specific Technical Discipline): This section covers questions related to the core subject or discipline (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science) that the candidate applied for. The questions are based on the curriculum of the bachelor's degree or diploma in engineering.

For Technician-A: The question paper structure for Tech-A is tailored to assess the candidate's technical knowledge related to their ITI trade and general abilities:

1. Section A (General Aptitude): Similar to STA-B, this section includes questions on general intelligence, reasoning ability, general awareness, and numerical ability.
2. Section B (Specific Trade Test): This section focuses heavily on the technical knowledge specific to the ITI trade (e.g., Fitter, Electrician).

Candidates must score above the minimum qualifying marks in Tier-I to be eligible for shortlisting for the Tier-II examination. The final merit list for selection is primarily based on the marks obtained in the Tier-I CBT, provided the candidate qualifies Tier-II.

Tier-II: Trade Test / Skill Test

The Tier-II examination is mandatory for all shortlisted candidates. Its purpose is to verify the practical skills of the candidate. The nature of Tier-II differs for STA-B and Technician-A:

• STA-B Skill Test: For STA-B, the skill test often involves a practical demonstration of knowledge, such as a presentation, a computer-based simulation test, or a practical project execution relevant to their field of specialization.
• Technician-A Trade Test: For Technician-A, this is a hands-on trade test where candidates perform practical tasks related to their specific ITI trade (e.g., wiring a circuit for an Electrician, operating a lathe machine for a Machinist). The trade test is qualifying in nature, meaning candidates must pass this stage to proceed, but the marks from Tier-II generally do not affect the final merit list.

Candidates must bring all relevant educational documents and certificates for verification during the Tier-II stage. Failure to qualify Tier-II or produce original documents will lead to disqualification.

Application Procedure for DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026

Candidates interested in applying for the 764 posts must complete the application process online through the official DRDO website. The application window for DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 is currently open, having started on 11 December 2025. The steps for application submission are outlined below:

Step 1: Registration and Official Notification Review

Visit the official DRDO website (drdo.gov.in) or the recruitment portal designated for CEPTAM. Before proceeding, candidates must carefully read the official notification to understand specific eligibility criteria, trade requirements, and application guidelines. Create a new user account by registering with a valid email address and mobile number. The registration process generates a unique registration ID and password, which must be stored securely for future login attempts.

Step 2: Filling the Online Application Form

Log in using the registered credentials. Fill in all details in the online application form accurately. This includes personal information (name, father's name, address, date of birth), educational qualifications, technical certifications (diploma/ITI), and other relevant details. Candidates must select the post (STA-B or Technician-A) and the specific trade/discipline they are applying for.

Step 3: Uploading Documents and Photographs

Upload scanned copies of required documents, including:

• Recent passport-size photograph (as per specifications mentioned in the notification)
• Scanned signature
• Educational certificates (Class 10, diploma/degree, ITI certificate)
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC) where applicable

Ensure that all uploaded images and documents are in the prescribed format and size specified in the notification to avoid rejection during the verification process.

Step 4: Application Fee Payment

The application fee must be paid online through various payment gateways (debit card, credit card, net banking). The standard application fee for general and OBC candidates is typically Rs. 100/-. Candidates belonging to SC/ST categories, PwBD, and women candidates are usually exempted from paying the application fee. The application submission is only considered complete after successful payment of the required fee.

Step 5: Final Submission and Printout

After reviewing all the entered details and making the payment, submit the final application form. It is highly recommended to take a printout of the final submitted form and the fee receipt for future reference. Candidates should note down their application number for tracking purposes during subsequent stages of the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 process.

Important Dates and Links for DRDO CEPTAM 11

Candidates preparing for the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 should keep track of all important dates related to the application process and examination schedule. The following table summarizes key dates and provides essential links for accessing the notification and applying online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A. A total of 764 posts are available through the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 drive. These vacancies are distributed across two key positions: Senior Technical Assistant-B (STA-B) and Technician-A (Tech-A), with a detailed breakdown provided in the official notification.

A. For the Senior Technical Assistant-B post, candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Science or a three-year Diploma in Engineering or Technology in the relevant discipline. The specific technical field (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science) must match the requirements outlined in the notification.

A. Yes, an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) certificate in a specific trade is mandatory for the Technician-A post. Candidates must also have successfully completed Class 10 (Matriculation) from a recognized board. The specific trade requirements vary depending on the post applied for.

A. The selection process consists of two tiers. Tier-I is a Computer Based Test (CBT) which acts as a screening examination. Candidates who clear Tier-I proceed to Tier-II, which is a practical skill test or trade test depending on the post applied for. The final selection is based on the performance in Tier-I, provided the candidate qualifies Tier-II.

A. The application process started on 11 December 2025. Candidates have until 10 January 2026 to submit their online applications and pay the application fees. It is recommended to apply well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.

A. No, certain categories are exempted from paying the application fee. While general and OBC category candidates typically pay a nominal fee (e.g., Rs. 100/-), candidates belonging to SC/ST categories, Persons with Disabilities (PwBD), and women candidates are usually exempted from payment.

A. The standard age limit for the DRDO CEPTAM 11 Recruitment 2026 posts is between 18 and 28 years as on the closing date of application. Age relaxation benefits are applicable for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC) as per government rules.

A. The official notification and the online application link are available on the official website of DRDO (drdo.gov.in) under the CEPTAM section. You can also find direct links on educational portals like Sarkari Result All for convenience.