Recruitment to the posts of Technician 'B', Draughtsman 'B', Technical Assistant, Scientific Assistant, Library Assistant 'A' and Cook 'A'

Read in:EN हिन्दी বাংলা தமிழ்తెలుగు मराठी ગુજરાતી ಕನ್ನಡ മലയാളം

Translation pending — showing English content. Re-translate from the admin panel.

Quick summary

Diverse technical roles across ISRO available.
Multiple qualifications accepted, from ITI to Master's.
Selection involves written tests, skill assessments, and interviews.
A prestigious career path in India's space program.
Prepare diligently, focusing on technical and general aptitude.

About this recruitment

This recruitment drive by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is a significant opportunity for individuals looking to contribute to India's cutting-edge space missions. ISRO, a premier space agency under the Department of Space, Government of India, is responsible for the nation's space program, including satellite design, rocket development, and space exploration. The roles on offer, ranging from Technician 'B' and Draughtsman 'B' to Technical Assistant, Scientific Assistant, Library Assistant 'A', and Cook 'A', are crucial for the day-to-day operations and long-term projects of various ISRO centres and units across the country. These positions are not merely administrative; they form the backbone of ISRO's technical and operational capabilities, ensuring that scientists and engineers have the necessary support to push the boundaries of space technology. The Technician and Draughtsman roles are vital for hands-on fabrication, assembly, and design support, while Technical and Scientific Assistants provide essential aid in research, development, and laboratory functions. Library Assistants ensure access to critical knowledge resources, and Cook 'A' positions cater to the essential needs of personnel in various facilities, often in remote or specialized locations. These roles collectively enable ISRO to achieve its ambitious goals, from launching communication satellites to planetary exploration. Typically, candidates with a strong technical aptitude, a keen interest in science and engineering, and a desire to serve in a national strategic organization apply for these posts. The prestige associated with working for ISRO, coupled with the opportunity to be part of groundbreaking scientific endeavours, makes these positions highly sought after. Aspirants should refer to the qualification table above to understand the specific educational requirements for each post and the dates table for application deadlines.

What the role actually looks like

A Technician 'B' or Draughtsman 'B' at ISRO might spend their week on the shop floor, involved in precision machining, fabrication of components, or creating detailed engineering drawings using CAD software. They work closely with engineers, translating designs into tangible parts or technical schematics. The environment is often a mix of hands-on work and technical documentation, adhering to stringent quality and safety standards. Technical and Scientific Assistants typically find themselves in laboratories, assisting in experiments, data collection, instrument calibration, and maintaining scientific equipment. Their work directly supports research and development projects, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of scientific principles. Library Assistants 'A' manage and organize technical literature, journals, and digital resources, ensuring that ISRO's vast knowledge base is accessible to researchers and staff. This involves cataloguing, database management, and assisting users with information retrieval. A Cook 'A' would be responsible for meal preparation and catering services, maintaining hygiene standards, and managing kitchen inventory, often in a large institutional setting. Postings can be across various ISRO centres, which are located in different parts of India, including major cities and specialized research facilities. Transfers, while not frequent, are part of a long career. Reporting hierarchies are generally structured, with clear lines of responsibility. The work environment is professional, focused, and often involves working with advanced technology and highly skilled individuals. The decisions handled by these roles, while operational, are critical for the successful execution of ISRO's projects.

Eligibility, decoded

The eligibility criteria for these ISRO positions are quite diverse, reflecting the range of roles available. For Technician 'B' and Draughtsman 'B' posts, a foundational qualification like SSLC (10th standard) coupled with an ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certificate in a relevant trade is typically required. The ITI trade must align directly with the specific technical demands of the role, such as Fitter, Electrician, Electronic Mechanic, or Draughtsman (Mechanical/Civil). Candidates must ensure their ITI certificate is from a recognized institution. For Technical Assistant and Scientific Assistant roles, a Diploma in Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Electronics, Computer Science) or a Bachelor's degree in Science (B.Sc.) with specific subjects is usually mandated. It's crucial to check if your specific engineering discipline or science specialization is listed. Sometimes, a B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) might be considered equivalent to a B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology), but this is not always explicitly stated and candidates should seek clarification if unsure. For Library Assistant 'A', a Bachelor's degree along with a Master's degree in Library Science or Library and Information Science is generally required. Cook 'A' positions typically require SSLC with relevant experience. There are no explicit physical or medical requirements beyond general fitness for duty, but candidates should be prepared for a medical examination as part of the selection process. Domicile requirements are generally not a factor for central government jobs like those in ISRO, meaning candidates from all states and Union Territories are eligible. Age relaxation is provided for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwBD/Ex-servicemen) as per Government of India norms; candidates should consult the official notification for specific age limits and relaxation details for their category.

Who can apply

Individuals holding qualifications from SSLC with ITI to a Master's degree, depending on the specific post, are eligible to apply. Each role has distinct educational and technical requirements, which candidates must meet as detailed in the official notification.

Important dates

Event	Date	Notes
Last Date to Apply	2026-07-20
Application Start	2026-06-27

How to apply — step by step

Review the official notification thoroughly to understand all eligibility criteria and post-specific requirements.
Ensure you meet the educational qualifications and other conditions for your chosen post.
Gather all necessary documents: educational certificates, caste certificate (if applicable), and identity proof.
Prepare scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specified dimensions and file size.
Visit the official ISRO recruitment portal during the application window (see the dates table above).
Register on the portal, providing your basic details to generate a unique registration ID.
Fill out the online application form carefully, entering all personal and educational details accurately.
Upload your scanned photograph and signature in the designated fields.
Pay the application fee, if applicable, through the online payment gateway (refer to the fee table).
Review your entire application form for any errors or omissions before final submission.
Submit the application and take a printout of the confirmation page for your records.
Keep the registration number and password safe for future correspondence.

Selection process

CBT
Written Exam
Interview
Medical
Document Verification
Skill Test

Salary & pay

da: current DA %
hra: city-tier dependent
basic: as per pay matrix (see notification)
gross: approximate range
in hand: approximate range

Documents required

Passport
Photograph
Signature
Caste Certificate
Disability Certificate

Preparation tips

Start early; consistent, long-term preparation yields better results than last-minute cramming.
Understand the syllabus thoroughly and create a detailed study plan tailored to your strengths and weaknesses.
Prioritize conceptual understanding over rote memorization, especially for technical subjects.
Solve previous year's question papers rigorously to identify frequently asked topics and exam patterns.
Practice mock tests regularly to improve speed, accuracy, and time management under exam conditions.
Develop practical skills relevant to your chosen post, as the skill test is a crucial qualifying stage.
Stay updated with current affairs, particularly in science, technology, and space exploration.
Make concise notes for quick revision of important formulas, facts, and concepts.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper sleep and diet, to stay focused and perform optimally.
Seek clarification on any doubts from reliable sources or subject matter experts.

Selection stages — deep dive

Written Examination (CBT)

This is typically the first stage for most technical posts. It's a computer-based test (CBT) or OMR-based written exam, usually comprising multiple-choice questions. The difficulty level varies by post, testing both technical knowledge relevant to the discipline and general aptitude.

Scoring: Marks are awarded for correct answers, and there is usually negative marking for incorrect ones. The exact ratio (e.g., 1/3rd or 1/4th) for negative marking will be specified in the notification.

Tip: Focus on conceptual clarity in your technical subject. Practice time management for the general aptitude section.

Skill Test / Practical Test

Candidates shortlisted from the written exam, usually in a ratio of 1:5 or 1:10, proceed to this stage. This test assesses practical skills directly relevant to the job role. For Technicians/Draughtsmen, it might involve hands-on fabrication, drawing, or operating specific equipment. For Scientific/Technical Assistants, it could be laboratory work or software proficiency.

Scoring: This stage is typically qualifying in nature, meaning candidates must achieve a minimum score to be considered further, but marks from this stage may not be added to the final merit list.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with standard tools, equipment, and software used in your trade/discipline. Practice practical exercises relevant to the job description.

Interview

For some posts, especially at higher technical levels, an interview follows the written and skill tests. This assesses communication skills, problem-solving abilities, technical depth, and suitability for the organizational culture.

Scoring: Marks from the interview are often crucial for the final merit list. There will be a minimum qualifying mark.

Tip: Be prepared to discuss your project work, technical concepts, and demonstrate enthusiasm for ISRO's mission. Practice mock interviews.

Document Verification

All shortlisted candidates will undergo thorough verification of their original educational certificates, caste certificates, and other documents submitted during the application process.

Scoring: This is a mandatory qualifying stage. Discrepancies can lead to disqualification.

Tip: Keep all original documents organized and ready. Ensure all details match exactly with your application form.

Medical Examination

Selected candidates will undergo a medical fitness examination by an ISRO-designated medical board. This assesses general health and fitness for the demands of the role.

Scoring: This is a qualifying stage. Candidates must be declared medically fit.

Tip: Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Address any minor health concerns proactively.

Career growth & long-term earning

A career at ISRO, even in technical support roles, offers a structured and rewarding growth path. Initial promotions for Technician 'B' or Technical Assistant roles typically involve moving up through different grades within the same cadre, such as Technician 'C', 'D', and so on, or Senior Technical Assistant, and then potentially to Junior Engineer or equivalent scientific/technical officer positions. The time-to-next-grade can vary but generally involves a combination of years of service, performance evaluations, and sometimes internal departmental examinations. For instance, moving from Technician 'B' to 'C' might take around 3-5 years. ISRO encourages continuous learning, often providing opportunities for internal training, skill enhancement programs, and even sponsored higher education for deserving candidates. Lateral opportunities within ISRO are possible, allowing individuals to transition to different departments or specialized units based on their acquired skills and organizational needs. Deputation to other government departments or public sector undertakings is also an option for experienced personnel. The pension scheme for new recruits falls under the National Pension System (NPS), providing a robust retirement benefit. Beyond salary, ISRO employees enjoy a range of perks, including subsidized housing (subject to availability), comprehensive medical facilities for themselves and their families, Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and various allowances. The long-term earning potential is significant, with regular pay commission revisions and annual increments ensuring a comfortable and secure financial future, culminating in a respectable pension. The prestige of contributing to India's space program adds an intangible but immense value to the career.

Historical trends & competition

Historically, the competition for ISRO's technical and scientific support roles has always been intense, reflecting the organization's reputation and the attractive career prospects. In recent cycles, we've observed a gradual increase in the number of applicants, leading to higher cutoffs across various categories. The written examination, particularly the technical section, has become more challenging, requiring a deeper conceptual understanding rather than rote learning. For Technician and Draughtsman posts, questions on fundamental engineering principles and practical applications have gained prominence. For Scientific and Technical Assistants, the general aptitude section, including reasoning and quantitative ability, has seen increased difficulty, acting as a significant differentiator. Cutoffs for unreserved categories consistently remain high, often requiring aspirants to score well above average. Reserved categories also experience stiff competition, with their cutoffs trending upwards, though still lower than the general category. This trend implies that a fresh aspirant needs to focus not just on their core technical subject but also on strengthening their general awareness and problem-solving skills. The skill test, while qualifying, has also become more rigorous, demanding genuine hands-on proficiency. Candidates who historically performed well were those who balanced theoretical knowledge with practical application and maintained a consistent study schedule over several months. The takeaway is clear: success requires comprehensive preparation, not just a last-minute cramming effort.

Suggested study plan

First 30 days

3-4 hours

Foundation topics to cover

Thorough review of core technical subjects (e.g., ITI trade basics, Diploma engineering fundamentals, B.Sc. core concepts).
Understand the exam pattern and syllabus in detail.
Begin practicing basic quantitative aptitude and reasoning questions.
Start making short notes for quick revision.

Days 31-60

4-5 hours

Deep dive into technical syllabus and general awareness

Complete in-depth study of all technical syllabus topics, including advanced concepts.
Focus on General Knowledge, Current Affairs, and basic English grammar.
Solve previous year's question papers for pattern recognition.
Identify weak areas and dedicate extra time to them.

Final 30 days

5-6 hours

Revision + mocks

Intensive revision of all subjects using self-made notes and flashcards.
Attempt at least 5-7 full-length mock tests under timed conditions.
Analyze mock test performance to refine strategy and improve speed/accuracy.
Practice skill test relevant exercises if applicable to your post.
Focus on areas frequently tested in previous exams.

Recommended resources

bookNCERT class 6-12 (relevant subject)
Provides strong foundational knowledge for general science and basic concepts, especially for technical roles.
siteOfficial recruiter website
Essential for official notifications, corrigenda, syllabus updates, and application portal.
bookStandard textbooks for your ITI trade/Diploma/Degree
Crucial for in-depth technical knowledge and conceptual clarity required for the exam.
bookQuantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
Excellent for practicing numerical ability and data interpretation, common in general aptitude sections.
bookA Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
Comprehensive guide for mastering logical reasoning skills.
bookLucent's General Knowledge
Good for quick revision of static general knowledge, history, geography, and polity.
siteReputable online current affairs portals
Stay updated on national and international events, especially in science and technology.
bookPrevious year question papers (PYQs)
Indispensable for understanding exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level.

Common mistakes to avoid

Not reading the official notification thoroughly, leading to missed eligibility details.
Incorrectly filling out the application form, especially educational qualifications or category.
Uploading photos/signatures that do not meet specified dimensions or file size.
Waiting until the last day to apply, risking server overload and technical glitches.
Ignoring the general aptitude section, focusing only on technical subjects.
Lack of practice with mock tests, leading to poor time management in the actual exam.
Underestimating the importance of the skill test and not practicing practical aspects.
Not preparing for negative marking, leading to excessive guessing.
Failing to keep original documents ready for verification, causing last-minute panic.
Neglecting current affairs, especially those related to science and technology.

How it compares

How this compares to similar roles

Aspect	This role	Alternative
Entry-level pay	Competitive and as per central government pay scales, often slightly higher due to specialized nature.	Similar technical roles in state PSUs or other central government departments might offer comparable but sometimes slightly lower entry pay.
Job security	Extremely high, being a permanent central government job with ISRO's prestige.	Private sector technical jobs might offer higher initial pay but generally come with less job security. State government roles also offer security but can be subject to state-specific policies.
Work-life balance	Generally good, with fixed working hours, though project deadlines can occasionally demand extra effort.	Private sector roles, especially in startups, often demand longer hours. Some other government departments might have more relaxed but less engaging work.
Growth trajectory	Structured and merit-based, with opportunities for skill enhancement and promotions to higher technical/scientific grades.	Growth in smaller private firms can be less structured. In some other government departments, promotions might be slower or more seniority-based.

Frequently asked questions

What if my degree name isn't exactly what's listed in the eligibility?

If your degree is an equivalent or allied discipline, you should check the official notification for any equivalency clauses. If not explicitly mentioned, it's best to contact the recruitment cell for clarification before applying.

Are there any age relaxations for specific categories?

Yes, age relaxations are provided for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwBD/Ex-servicemen) as per Government of India rules. Refer to the detailed age table in the official notification for specific limits.

What does the selection process typically involve?

The selection process usually includes a Written Examination, followed by a Skill Test (for technical roles) and/or an Interview. Document verification and a medical examination are final stages.

How is the application fee structured for different categories?

Application fees vary by category, with concessions often provided for women, SC/ST, PwBD, and Ex-Servicemen candidates. The exact fee structure will be detailed in the fee table in the official notification.

What documents do I need to keep ready for the application?

You'll need your educational certificates (10th, ITI, Diploma, Degree, etc.), caste/category certificate (if applicable), identity proof, and scanned copies of your photograph and signature.

What is the exam pattern for the written test?

The written test is generally multiple-choice, covering technical subjects relevant to the post and a general aptitude section. Details on the number of questions, duration, and marking scheme will be in the notification.

What should I focus on in the syllabus?

Focus heavily on your core technical discipline. Additionally, do not neglect general aptitude, reasoning, and basic English, as these can be crucial differentiators, especially in competitive exams.

What is the approximate in-hand salary for these roles?

The in-hand salary will vary based on the specific post, pay level, and city of posting (due to HRA). It includes Basic Pay, Dearness Allowance, HRA, and other allowances, with deductions for NPS, etc. Refer to the salary breakdown table for an approximate range.

What are the promotion prospects in ISRO?

ISRO offers a structured career progression with opportunities for promotion to higher technical/scientific grades based on performance, experience, and internal assessments or exams.

Is there a transfer policy, and how flexible are postings?

ISRO has a transfer policy, and employees can be posted to any of its centres or units across India. While efforts are made to accommodate preferences, organizational needs take precedence. Postings are generally stable once assigned.

Is coaching necessary to clear this exam?

While coaching can provide structure and guidance, it is not strictly necessary. Many successful candidates prepare through self-study, utilizing standard textbooks, online resources, and consistent practice. Discipline and a clear strategy are more important.

If I don't get selected this time, how can I re-attempt?

If not selected, analyze your performance, identify weak areas, and work on improving them. Keep an eye on future recruitment notifications from ISRO and other central government organizations, as these opportunities arise periodically.

Glossary

SSLC: Secondary School Leaving Certificate, typically referring to the 10th standard board examination.
ITI: Industrial Training Institute, providing vocational training in various technical trades.
CBT: Computer-Based Test, an examination conducted online using computers.
NPS: National Pension System, a government-sponsored pension scheme for new recruits in central government services.
DA: Dearness Allowance, a cost of living adjustment paid to government employees and pensioners.
HRA: House Rent Allowance, an allowance paid to employees for their accommodation expenses, varying by city tier.

Download Notification PDF